Gangnam JS Hospital – Advanced Knee Realignment & Arthritis Care

Bow legs (medically called genu varum) cause the knees to stay apart while the ankles touch, creating an outward curve of the legs. In adults, this condition is often linked to medial knee osteoarthritis, cartilage wear, or long-term joint imbalance.

At Gangnam JS Hospital, specialized orthopedic surgeons provide comprehensive bow leg correction using advanced imaging, precise alignment analysis, and joint-preserving surgical techniques.

🔎 What Causes Bow Legs in Adults?

Bow legs may develop due to:

  • Progressive knee osteoarthritis
  • Cartilage loss on the inner (medial) side of the knee
  • Previous sports injuries or fractures
  • Congenital alignment differences
  • Long-term uneven weight distribution

Over time, untreated bow legs can accelerate arthritis and lead to chronic knee pain.

🩺 Bow Leg Treatment Options at Gangnam JS Hospital

1️⃣ High Tibial Osteotomy (HTO) – Joint-Preserving Realignment




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Best for: Active adults with bow legs and early-to-moderate medial knee arthritis.

How it works:

  • The tibia (shin bone) is carefully cut and realigned
  • Body weight shifts from damaged cartilage to healthier areas
  • Natural knee joint is preserved

✔ Delays or avoids total knee replacement
✔ Maintains higher activity level
✔ Long-term success in properly selected patients

Recovery:

  • Hospital stay: ~3–5 days
  • Crutches: Several weeks
  • Structured rehabilitation: 2–3 months

2️⃣ Total Knee Replacement (Severe Cases)




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Best for: Advanced arthritis with severe cartilage damage and deformity.

Procedure includes:

  • Removal of damaged joint surfaces
  • Placement of artificial knee implant
  • Full correction of leg alignment

✔ Reliable pain relief
✔ High long-term durability (15–25 years)
✔ Suitable when joint preservation is no longer possible

3️⃣ Non-Surgical Management (Mild Deformity)

For early cases or patients not ready for surgery:

  • Physical therapy
  • Weight reduction programs
  • Knee bracing
  • Anti-inflammatory treatment
  • Regenerative injections (case-dependent)

⚠️ Non-surgical treatments do not permanently correct significant bone deformity.

📊 Why Alignment Correction Matters

When bow legs are present, excessive pressure builds on the inner knee cartilage, accelerating arthritis progression. Realignment surgery restores mechanical balance and helps:

  • Reduce pain
  • Slow cartilage degeneration
  • Improve walking mechanics
  • Prevent further joint damage

💰 Estimated Cost in Korea

TreatmentEstimated Cost (KRW)High Tibial Osteotomy₩8M – ₩15MTotal Knee Replacement₩10M – ₩20M

Final cost depends on implant type, surgical complexity, and hospital stay.

🇰🇷 Why Choose Gangnam JS Hospital?

  • Specialized orthopedic focus
  • Advanced alignment analysis technology
  • Experienced surgical team
  • Structured rehabilitation programs
  • Experience treating international patients

Located in Seoul’s Gangnam district, the hospital provides coordinated care for overseas patients, including consultation planning and post-operative guidance.

🧠 Who Is a Good Candidate?

You may benefit from evaluation if you have:

✔ Visible outward leg curve
✔ Medial knee pain
✔ Progressive osteoarthritis
✔ Difficulty walking long distances
✔ Uneven shoe wear

X-rays and alignment scans determine whether HTO or knee replacement is more appropriate.

🌟 Take the Next Step

If you are considering bow leg correction in Korea, a consultation at Gangnam JS Hospital can determine the most effective treatment approach based on your alignment and cartilage condition.