How to fix x-shaped legs. Crooked legs - how to fix them

As for the shape of the legs, and their appearance this is almost the most basic thing in female beauty, not only for women, but also for men. But not everyone can share the joy of beautiful legs. Women who were not lucky enough to have beautiful ones to use, slender legs, constantly infringe on themselves in many joys of life, such as: visiting the pool or the sea beach, limit themselves in wearing beautiful clothes that reveal legs, be it skirts or shorts. In order to find out how to correct crooked legs, you need to carefully read the entire article to the end, which will tell you what methods exist for correcting crooked legs, not only with the help of a surgeon, but also on your own.

First, let's look at the question of what does it mean to have properly shaped legs? It's quite simple beautiful legs The correct form is considered to be those that, when completely brought together, touch in four main places:

• Knees.
• Heels.
• Mid-calf.
• Mid-thigh.

When deviating from this rule, the following occurs:

• O-shaped curvature of the legs or varus curvature of the legs: the defect is a spindle-shaped, closed legs starting from the perineum and further down to the ankles. In this case, the point of contact is only on the heels, and there is a gap in the area of ​​​​the shins and knees.
• X-shaped curvature of the legs or hallux valgus: the defect is a deformity in which the point of contact is only in the knees, while the ankles are apart.

Based on the nature of the curvature of the legs, the type of curvature can be determined:

• False curvature of the legs is caused solely by the anatomical features of the structure of the soft tissues themselves, meaning incorrect or uneven development muscle tissue shins and thighs, at this time the bones also have an incorrect location. It is worth noting that such a defect can be corrected even without surgery, using a special series of exercises.
• True curvature of the legs is caused by deformation of the bones of the legs, possible defects of non-standard development and, as a consequence, of the structure of the skeleton. In this case, only surgical intervention is implied.

X-shaped curvature of the legs before and after photos

What caused your legs to become crooked?

This is the second most popular question, after ways to eliminate this defect. Naturally, in most cases, such a problem arises solely due to physiological characteristics and bone structure, but in order to ensure that ideal legs do not become crooked over time, it is necessary to follow several rules, since they are often the cause of curvature of the legs:

• Try not only not to concentrate all the weight on one leg, but not even to sit with your legs crossed.
• Carrying a bag on one shoulder has a negative impact not only on the spine, but also on the legs.
• Don't stand on one leg.
• It is best to sleep only on your back, as over time, after 20 years of sleeping on your side or stomach, it affects your legs.
• If possible, avoid wearing too high heels altogether.

O-shaped curvature of the legs before and after photos

How to remove bowed legs without surgery

It is worth noting that before running headlong to the surgeons, you can try to visually solve the problem of curvature of the legs.

In order to learn how to hide crooked legs, you just need to follow a few rules for choosing the right clothes:

• Any girl can cope with crooked legs with the help of a successful combination of tights with a large pattern, over the knee boots and a miniskirt.
• It is strictly forbidden to wear knee-length skirts and breeches.
• Thanks to straight-fit trousers or jeans, you can visually hide crooked legs. By the way, horizontal stripes also cope with this problem.

Curvature of the legs: photos before and after a yoga course

Exercises for crooked legs

If you are determined to radically combat the problem of curvature of the legs in adults, then you should first of all perform a certain course of simple exercises that are aimed at correcting the curvature of the legs. The first thing you need to do is get rid of excess fat in the thighs and lower legs. To do this, it is necessary to give them as much load and movement as possible and sit as little as possible.

Exercises for hips

When lying on your side with straight legs and tense muscles, you need to lift exactly the leg that is on the floor, this is very important. After this, try to hold it in this position for several seconds. Next you need to turn over and repeat this procedure. If you feel that you can keep one leg in this position longer than the other, then on the weakest leg you should try to give heavy loads by time. This way your muscles will gradually balance out.

Exercises for crooked legs

Thigh muscle stretch

In a standing position, with your feet shoulder-width apart, pull in your stomach and straighten your posture, while all muscles should be relaxed. Now you need to bend your leg at the knees back, grab it from behind with one hand and thereby stretch the muscles.

Exercises to hide crooked legs

Exercise for calf muscles

For this exercise, you need to come up with some kind of stand, no more than 5 cm high. You need to stand on it with your toes, while your heels should remain on the floor. Now, transferring your weight to your toes and lifting your heels, you need to freeze in this position for 10-20 seconds.

Correction of crooked legs

Leg muscle stretching

In a sitting position, straighten your legs in front of you, watch your posture. Next, you need to ideally clasp your foot with your hands, or that part of the leg as far as you can reach, and then begin to slowly pull it towards you as much as possible and stay in this position for 10-15 seconds. We repeat the same procedure with the other leg. In this case, it is important to keep your leg on the same line as close to the other as possible and not bend it at the knee. You must constantly monitor your posture; during the exercise, your back should be straight, this is very important.

Sports - if your legs become crooked

For O-shaped curvature

After stretching, it’s time to move directly to exercises aimed at correcting crooked legs.
If your legs have become crooked, then with a simple exercise you can correct them. It’s worth noting right away that you shouldn’t expect quick results, average rate is due to daily systematic repetition of exercises, which will give the first visible results in at least one year. The exercise for correcting O-shaped curvature is very simple, but its effectiveness is achieved through constant implementation. It is necessary to stand straight and bring your legs as close as possible, after they come together, keep them in this position for 10-15 seconds, increasing this time by 1 second every day.

Photos before and after exercises to correct O-shaped curvature

For X-shaped curvature

In this case, you need to take the same stance as in the previous exercise, only in this case you need to slowly spread your legs as far apart as possible and lock in this position for the same 10-15 seconds, followed by increasing the time by 1 second . The back must be in a straight position.

Photos before and after exercises to correct X-shaped curvature

Leg shape correction

It is necessary to sit down, keeping your feet closed, without opening them and without lifting the surface of your feet from the floor, you need to place your palms in front of you on the floor. Now, without lifting your palms, you begin to slowly straighten your legs, thereby raising your pelvis above the level of your head. After this, fix yourself in this position for 15 seconds. This exercise must be done 3 times a day, 3 approaches.

Yoga for crooked legs

The yoga technique primarily tones the muscles and, in the case of weak muscles, strengthens them. At the same time, the impact on them occurs thanks to special sets of exercises, thanks to which soft fabrics become stronger, and strong ones become softer.

In order for yoga exercises for the legs to be as effective as possible, they are tightened with belts, elastic bandages, or special weights are hung on them. A common practice found in yoga is based on targeted action on the joints of the legs, by squeezing and holding bricks between them.

Yoga for the legs, as for other parts of the body, is based on constant control of the respiratory system, which is due to natural breathing through the nose, without hesitation. As for the depth and frequency of inhalation, they may vary depending on a particular exercise, but the naturalness and ease of breathing should remain constant. For beginners who are just getting acquainted with this technique, to simplify the performance of some exercises, you can use a fitball, which will help you hold your body in some particularly difficult but necessary exercises.

In order for yoga exercises to help a woman with crooked legs, it is necessary to practice them at least three to four times a week, and for at least 3 months to see visible results.

Short bowed legs are not a death sentence

Leg osteotomy

Osteotomy is surgery with bowed legs. In this case, an artificial bone fracture is created in order to eliminate the deformity. This method is quite old and effective. It uses a special apparatus, thanks to which it is possible to change bone structure. It should be understood that the result will be visible only after recovery period after surgery, and not every time the curvature of the legs can be corrected thanks to only one operation.

Osteotomy surgery to straighten the legs

If false curvature without deformation can be corrected with the help of special implants, then for the rest only surgical intervention performed under general anesthesia. It should be understood that there is a certain list mandatory conditions on the basis of which the doctor can approve or prohibit the operation.

Indications:

• X-shaped curvature.
• O-shaped curvature.

Contraindications:

• Minor patient.
• Diseases of internal organs.
• Pregnancy.
• Malignant tumors.
• Diabetes mellitus.
• Thrombophlebitis.
• Dystrophy or obesity.

Photos before and after leg osteotomy

How to correct bowed legs: surgical technique

The operation itself occurs as follows. The surgeon dissects the bone through pre-made incisions, and the dissection can be:

• With extension.
• Full.
• With a shift inward.
• Incomplete.

The length of such holes is often no more than 7 mm. Based on the degree of a particular curvature of the legs, the surgeon must decide whether it is possible to eliminate the defect directly during the operation, or whether this will be possible only with the help of the Ilizarov apparatus.

Rehabilitation period

Despite such high achievements V modern medicine, after osteotomy, the patient must adhere to certain rules. Immediately after the operation, the patient will be in a hospital for 3 days, under the supervision of doctors. Upon returning home, the patient must still come to the hospital for scheduled inspection and dressings. The first month or two, the patient will move with the help of crutches, after which it is allowed independent movement. The patient’s further actions will depend on the progress of rehabilitation and the doctor’s recommendations.

Ilizarov apparatus

If it is impossible to correct the curvature during bone osteotomy surgery, the surgeon decides to use the Ilizarov apparatus.

Ilizarov apparatus on the leg

This device consists of some kind of rings that are attached by means of knitting needles, which in turn are placed directly in the bone tissue. The needles of the Ilizarov apparatus also function as levers for tension or compression. Thanks to this device, the doctor is able to fix the bone in the required position for further healing. After the Ilizarov apparatus is attached to your leg, you need to move around on crutches for 2-4 days, but after a month you can try moving independently. The correction process itself will begin 10-15 days after the operation is completed. In order for everything to go according to plan, it is necessary to constantly tighten the nuts in order to control the changes in bone tissue. Naturally, you shouldn’t do this yourself.

This device must be worn for about 2-3 months; if the recovery process is successful, the patient can continue treatment at home.

Removal of the Ilizarov apparatus occurs at the moment when the radiologist, surgeon and therapist make an appropriate statement based on the radiograph. Regarding postoperative period after removing the Ilizarov apparatus, it consists in abandoning physical activity, while it is gradually necessary to resume motor functions, according to the recommendation and plan of the doctor.

Ilizarov apparatus correction of leg curvature: before and after photos

If the doctor’s recommendations are violated, there is a risk of the following complications:

• A fracture or deformation of the bone in the area where the correction was performed.
• Inflammatory processes in soft and bone tissues.
• Problems associated with the joints of the legs and subsequent limitation of motor activity.

Cruroplasty if the legs become crooked

Often surgery to correct bow legs is not required because the problem is simply that the patient's calf muscles are poorly developed. It is quite simple to cope with this problem by resorting to contour plastic surgery - cruroplasty, which is aimed at correcting curvature with the help of silicone implants.

Such implants have a lifetime guarantee, and their properties are not inferior to muscle tissue.

There is no need to replace them and they are resistant to any external influences. But this procedure is relevant only for false curvature of the legs.

Possibilities of cruroplasty

Cruroplasty is one of the safest and at the same time effective methods, which is used not only by women, but also by men.

Indications for leg cruroplasty:

• Elimination of muscle atrophy and restoration of the shape of the lower leg.
• Underdeveloped calf muscles Oh.
• Curvature of the legs.

It is worth noting that cruroplasty of the tibia can provide not only good results with false curvature, but also with moderately expressed O-shaped curvature of the legs.

Choosing an implant

By the way, they resort to leg plastic surgery not only ordinary people, crooked legs of celebrities are not at all uncommon, and sometimes you can even notice that plastic surgery has been done. As for the choice of a particular implant, this is based on individual anatomical features and wishes. The choice of implants is quite extensive.

Implants completely imitate not only their shape, but even feel the same to the touch. They are not rejected by the body and are practically unable to bring any negative consequences.

Cruroplasty: photos before and after surgery

How is the operation performed?

Correction of curvature of the legs using cruroplasty occurs as follows. An incision is made at the back of the natural popliteal fossa where the implant is placed, then the tissue is restored using cosmetic sutures. The procedure itself lasts no more than 30 minutes, after which the patient remains in the hospital for a day. As for anesthesia, both local and general can be used.

Cruroplasty is contraindicated for:

• Circulatory disorders.
• In the presence of diseases of chronic organs.
• Inflammatory processes skin.
• Oncological diseases.
• If you are under 18 years of age.

After surgery to correct crooked legs

After the procedure has been completed, it is not recommended to actively walk for the first time. At the same time, walking time should be as short as possible. As for physical activity, it is completely excluded for several months. The use of compression stockings is recommended.

Painful and discomfort while walking will disappear within a few days, while the swelling will subside after 15 days, and the stitches will be removed after 10.

Lipofilling

The procedure for lipofilling of the legs is that with the help of one’s own fat cells, which are often taken from the abdominal area and with the help of special injections, the required volume of the lower leg is formed. This method of correcting curvature will be relevant only when minor degree curvature and in the presence of a corresponding volume of fat deposits in the abdominal area.

You should be prepared for the fact that after lipofilling, on average, half of the transplanted cells will die within a few days, so the specialist takes this into account and transplants 40-60% more. In order to get the desired effect, 2 or even 3 procedures are needed.

Lipofilling: photos before and after the procedure

Correction of curvature of legs: cost

As for the cost of attending yoga classes or a fitness room to perform corrective exercises, it all depends solely on the pricing policy, geographical location and the status of a particular institution. Some exercises can be done at home. The average cost of a monthly gym membership varies from 500 to 3,000 rubles.

An orthopedic operation, together with the subsequent installation of an Ilizarov apparatus, along with all preliminary and accompanying procedures, can cost around 50,000–100,000 rubles.

Cruroplasty, together with consultation, all tests and implants, will cost the patient approximately 90,000–200,000 rubles.

The lipofilling procedure, which includes all the necessary procedures, will cost from 90,000 to 150,000 rubles.

Crooked legs in men: photos before and after surgery

Correction of crooked legs: reviews

Varvara, 24 years old, Tyumen

I had a slight curvature of my legs, and if until I was 18 years old this didn’t particularly bother me, then after that I began to feel a little complex. Due to the fact that I did not want to turn to specialists who would perform any operations to improve my legs, I began to look for other methods of dealing with this problem. Thus, on the advice of my friend, I turned to yoga. After two years of training with my trainer, I became almost perfect straight legs, and this does not take into account the fact that my posture and the quality of my health in general have improved. I recommend everyone not to panic, but to soberly assess the condition of their legs and decide to change their life.

Evgenia, 26 years old, Orel

Ignat, 32 years old, Moscow

I have been professionally involved in bodybuilding for 4 years now, and as we know in our sport, it is necessary to have an ideal body, but few people know how difficult, and sometimes almost impossible, it is to pump up the calf muscles without pumping up all the others. That is why I was forced to resort to cruroplasty, fortunately this is not prohibited. Everything went so well that I won the qualifying round for the Moscow championship and now I’m preparing for the competition. I recommend it to everyone!

Liya, 28 years old, Bryansk

I don’t understand why many people are afraid of the Ilizarov apparatus, because despite the fact that I was limited in movement for 3 months, now I have perfect legs that can be the envy of many Hollywood stars, some of whom, in turn, also resorted to similar procedures. I recommend it to all girls who dream of changing their lives for the better.

The problem of bowed legs occurs quite often in people. However, most of all it worries the weak half of humanity. Of course, any woman strives to look more attractive and better. However, sometimes this is hindered by the deformation that the lady received from nature. After all, it is precisely this structural feature lower limbs has a dominant type of inheritance.

This problem causes not only aesthetic discomfort. After all, this serious pathology, contributing to improper distribution of body weight on the legs. And this in the future threatens the emergence of a number of diseases of the musculoskeletal system. That is why the sooner such patients decide to correct the curvature of their legs, the lower their likelihood of developing serious pathology in the future.

Types of lower limb deformities

In medicine, the curvature of the legs is determined in a standing position, when the legs are shoulder-width apart and the arms are at the seams. There are three types of such pathology. Among them:

1. Varus type deformity. It is characterized by the contact of a person in this position, similar to the letter “O”. There is no point of contact between the lower limbs at the knees. This type of deformation is also called somewhat differently. This is an O-shaped curvature of the legs.
2. Valgus type deformity. In the same standing position, a person's shins may resemble the letter "X". This is a different curvature of the legs. It is considered X-shaped. With it, you can close your legs, but it is impossible to do this with your feet.
3. False type deformation. It is a visual misconception about the curvature of the legs. In such cases bone apparatus person is normal. However, there is an incorrect distribution of the muscle-fat membrane. This fact is the main one, visually giving the effect of curvature. With a false deformation, the feet and knees close, but it is very difficult to bring the calves into contact.
Without the presence of pathology, the lower part of the legs has some deviation outward relative to the mentally drawn vertical line. For men, this value is about five degrees, and for women - up to ten.

The most dangerous is the X-shaped leg deformity. It is most clearly reflected in a person’s gait. This creates the impression that the patient is shaking his hips strongly. With a stronger degree of deformation, the effect of the buttocks jumping when they rest on the leg occurs.

With an O-shaped curvature, the foot rotates backwards. This creates some instability for the patient during movement and provokes unilateral rubbing of the sole of the shoe. The danger of this form of deformation lies in the rapidly progressing flat feet.

Causes of curvature of legs

In most cases, deformity of the lower extremities is caused by hereditary factors. The following are the reasons that arose back in childhood. It's a lack of nutrients needed by the body for the correct formation of the skeleton, as well as injuries.

Today, one of the reasons for deformation of the lower extremities is called too long-term use diapers Young mothers should keep this in mind. In addition, the causes of acquired deformation of the lower extremities may lie in the presence of the following in the child:

Severe forms of rickets;
- osteomyelitis and other forms of bone pathology;
- disorders metabolic processes, especially microelements such as potassium, magnesium and calcium;
- endocrine pathologies.

IN adolescence Bone deformation can occur with a deficiency of vitamin D and calcium in the body, as well as with insufficient exposure to fresh air.

Indications for surgery

Surgery to correct the curvature of the legs is carried out only with a certain shape of the lower extremities. Necessity surgical intervention arises with a careful study of the contours of the muscle-fat structure of the limbs, their biomechanical axes, as well as the relationship between the lines of the lower leg and thigh. In the language of the average person, doctors determine the slimness of legs.

The main indicator for assessing the curvature of the legs is their biomechanical axis. It is a straight line mentally drawn through the points of the head femur, the middle of the patella and the center of the ankle. The difference between the anatomical and the resulting axis indicates the degree of curvature of the legs. Based on this indicator, doctors decide on the possibility of surgical intervention.

A special case is false curvature of the lower extremities. She doesn't provoke pathological processes in the legs and causes discomfort to a person only in aesthetic terms. In such cases, the patient is advised to perform special exercises to correct false curvature of the legs. This is a fairly simple and effective way to eliminate visual pathology. In some cases, silicone pads are used to correct the curvature of the legs in a similar way.

Using the Ilizarov apparatus

To date, the most in an efficient way, which allows for correction of the lower extremities, is an operation to correct the curvature of the legs, during which the tibia is specially broken in several places. Next, the resulting fragments are compiled. With their successful fusion, the correct biomechanical axis is obtained.

Of course, correction of crooked legs in a similar way can shock anyone. That is why medicine uses a number of techniques in its practice. They are intended to prove to the patient the painlessness and effectiveness of such an intervention, which is aimed at correcting the curvature of the legs. The clinic that a person goes to offers him special computer programs to view that demonstrate the prospects for correction in a particular patient. Information about patients who have already undergone a similar operation is also indicated here.

The Ilizarov apparatus is most often used in cases where it is necessary to correct O-shaped curvature of the legs, as well as “X” type deformities. This unique device guarantees one hundred percent effect.

It is important to remember that correcting crooked legs is a personal matter. Each patient is given time to consider the importance of the future cosmetic effect before undergoing such procedures. The only exceptions can be cases high degree deformations of the lower extremities, preventing a person from moving and threatening serious diseases of the musculoskeletal system in the future.

An artificial fracture or cutting of a bone, which is subsequently accompanied by fixation of fragments, is called osteotomy. After such an operation, the Ilizarov apparatus is used. With its help, bone fragments are fused. This process is carried out externally.

The level of modern orthopedics makes it possible to use wide range programs that control such bone correction.

The very next day after installation of the Ilizarov apparatus, patients are able to move independently. Direct correction of the curvature of the legs begins on the tenth day. This occurs with the help of a certain tightening of the screws of the device, which is strictly controlled by a computer program.

Cruroplasty

Correction of false curvature of the legs can be done with this modern method corrections. With vagal and hallux valgus deformity This method is considered inappropriate.

The essence of cruroplasty is that with this method, special artificial implants are inserted into the subcutaneous tissue of the lower extremities. They are located in the femoral area of ​​the legs.

The cruroplasty method guarantees aesthetic correct form in this part of the limbs.

Lipofilling

This method is similar in its indications to the previous one. However, with this method, false curvature of the legs is corrected using parts of the patient’s fatty tissue, which are taken from other places. This allows you to level out defective areas. Most often, fatty tissue is collected from the patient’s buttocks.

Lipofilling is a less traumatic method that is most suitable for people in terms of tissue survival.

Such operations provide a cosmetic effect. Medical indications for their use does not exist. Lipofilling and cruroplasty can be performed only at the request of the patient.

Selection of clothes

Many people are interested in the following question: “Is it possible to correct the curvature of the legs without surgery?” Yes. Legs can become slender without the participation of a surgeon. The easiest and fastest way to solve this problem is to visually correct the curvature of the legs. Reviews from many ladies recommend choosing the right clothes, for example:

1. Miniskirts that are combined with over the knee boots, as well as tights decorated with a large pattern, work real miracles.
2. Straight-cut trousers and jeans will help hide figure defects.
3. Knee-length skirts and breeches visually increase the curvature of the legs. That's why you shouldn't wear them.

Special exercises

What other non-surgical methods are there for eliminating defects of the lower extremities? Many people have benefited from exercises to correct the curvature of their legs. However, it is worth remembering that special sets of exercises only help with false defects. The legs are corrected by increasing the volume of muscle mass.

So, the following exercises can increase the size of your calves:

1. Lifting onto your toes, performed with or without a load.
2. Alternately moving the legs back in a standing position.
3. Straight leg raise while lying on your side.
4. Foot press performed on a special simulator.
5. Strong compression of the legs together in a standing position.
6. Squats performed either with the feet shoulder-width apart or joined together.
7. During this exercise, your legs should be raised on your toes with each step.

When performing exercises to correct the curvature of the lower extremities, you should take into account the fact that the calves are the muscles that respond least to training. That is why an increase in the volume of the legs with the help of exercises can only occur within one to two centimeters.

Yoga

This technique is used to strengthen weak leg muscles and tone them. Most often, curvature of the lower extremities is eliminated with a special set of exercises that relax hard tissue areas and strengthen soft ones.

When conducting yoga sessions, it is recommended to tighten the legs with belts or stretch them using special weights. Enough effective exercise compression of bricks by the lower limbs is considered. This has a beneficial effect on general condition legs and their muscles.

You can get rid of defects of the lower extremities within 2-3 months. You just need to conduct regular classes at least three to four times a week.

Special pads

What should those people do who have defects of the lower extremities, but they do not dare to undergo surgery and cannot find time to perform special exercises? In this case, they can benefit from pads to correct crooked legs. But it is worth keeping in mind that their main task is only to visually hide an existing cosmetic defect.

The domestic market of medical goods offers silicone pads that have the following characteristics:

Patented, that is, produced according to existing technology and in industrial conditions;
- made of natural silicone, which cannot cause irritation or allergies to human skin, does not emit any toxic substances and is completely safe for health;
- have sticky properties and therefore are well attached to the leg and do not slip off;
- easy to clean if necessary as usual household products, and special ones that do not contain chemically active elements;
- in conditions of intensive use they can last from five to seven years;
- have dimensions, that is, they have different thicknesses depending on the dimensions of the legs and shins, as well as the degree of their curvature.

There is an opinion that women can only wear such devices under trousers. However, this is not true. Silicone pads can be used with dresses and short skirts. Of course, you should wear tights on your feet. Silicone has the ability to take on the shade of the skin, which makes it invisible.

In the case where the lower limbs are curved in the shape of the letter “O”, it is recommended to wear pads that have the maximum thickness. If the leg defect is type “X”, then the patient will require thin devices.

If you have difficulty choosing silicone pads, it is advisable to consult your doctor.

"FiS", 2006, No. 1

The more I communicate with Vitaly Demyanovich GITT, the more I am convinced that he is not an ordinary chiropractor. For example, joints. Chiropractors, as you know, they are not treated, but Vitaly Demyanovich created effective technique, with which we have already introduced readers (FiS, 2005, No. 3-9). He also developed various techniques for correcting defects in posture and physique. In the arsenal of V.D. Gitta has techniques and exercises invented by him that allow him to correct, for example, such defects as “chicken breast”, skewed shoulders, torticollis, short neck and... even crooked legs, which will be discussed today.

- Our editorial office has received letters from girls more than once asking for advice on how to straighten their crooked legs. I know that you have your own technique, which in a few months allows you to make crooked legs slender, and therefore beautiful. Please tell our readers about it.

Curvature of the legs usually does not affect the health of their owner, but it deprives many, especially the fair sex, of spiritual comfort. Moreover, there is no one to turn to for help. It is believed that a defect such as curvature of the legs cannot be corrected. However, my experience proves the opposite, and I will be happy to share it with FiS readers.
But first, in order to determine which method of “straightening” the legs should be used in each specific case, we need to understand what type of curvature we are dealing with. There are, in general, three of them.
In the first case, curvature is observed in the knee area: they are either too close to each other, or, conversely, too far apart.
In the second type, the curvature is observed in the shin area - they are usually curved outward and there is too much distance between them.
And finally, with the third type of leg curvature, the defect is observed in the area of ​​the femur, which is curved outward.
. In the first case, feel your knees and you will find that approximately 4 centimeters below the center of the kneecap, on the side of it (right and left), there is a joint space. It is at this point that special corrective techniques will have to be directed (see figure). To complete them, you will have to make a bag from canvas or denim. Cut a piece of it measuring 15x20 centimeters, sew a tube-bag, pour sand or salt into it and sew up the free end. Taking this bag in your hand, while sitting, tap the area of ​​the joint space: if the knees are apart, on the inside of the kneecap, if they are brought together, on the outside. Perform the procedure daily for 1 minute in the morning and evening. In the first days, hit slowly to avoid bruising; later, when the tissues adapt to this impact, the hits can be increased.
As a result of this treatment of the knees, the joint space will widen somewhat, at the same time the growth of the outer (or inner) part of the meniscus is stimulated and the legs in the knee area are straightened. These procedures need to be done for at least six months.

The legs are twisted due to a deformed shin, and it can be curved at the bottom, just above the ankle, or at the top, just below the knee. In these cases, you can build up the muscle so as to visually hide this defect. But, as far as I know, there are no exercises for building muscle in these areas. Therefore I suggest another method.
As you know, “a muscle is shaken by injury” (by the way, one of Jack London’s heroes says these exact words). The same bag needs to be hit on problem areas, activation of blood circulation and metabolic processes will build muscle in this area, even if just a little, but it will build it up. But even five millimeters completely change the silhouette of the leg. I usually suggest that my patients with a similar leg defect stand in front of a mirror, and apply a small strip of paper to the place of the curvature - I add exactly these 5 millimeters, and the girls are usually surprised and happy to discover that the leg has become slender. Tapping should be performed for 1 minute in the morning and evening for six months.
. The legs are crooked due to the curvature of the femur. It also looks unaesthetic, especially when girls wear trousers. To disguise this defect, you need to build up the inner thigh muscles. A simple exercise will help. Take a medium-sized (20 centimeters in diameter) rubber ball and sit on a chair. Hold the ball between your knees and squeeze it with frequent movements for 1-2 minutes. Do this exercise daily. Gradually the muscles will increase, the leg will look slender.

Children who have musculoskeletal system It's still developing, I wouldn't recommend these methods. For them, I usually recommend other exercises.
If your child has O-shaped legs, encourage him to sit on the floor on his heels with his toes pointed out to the sides as often as possible. Very young children can sit upright on the floor with their butt between their heels. Let them play in this position, look at or even read books.
If the child's legs are curved in an X-shape, best pose to correct this defect, sit cross-legged, and the position of the legs must be periodically changed: first place one on top, then the other.
Ligaments and bones in children under 10 years of age are still so elastic that regular sitting in the recommended positions will gradually straighten crooked legs. Unfortunately, these poses will no longer help adults.

Alla KASATKINA talked to Vitaly Gitt

Since 2001, the now popular classification of altered leg shape has come into use among orthopedists. It was developed by Alexander Artemyev, a famous orthopedic surgeon. With its help, correction methods are selected, and the possibility of using exercises to straighten the legs is determined.

Let's figure out what false and true curvature of the lower extremities are, what types they have, and how the ugly defect can be corrected.

Determining the type of curvature

Alexander Artemyev was the first to “calculate” the proportions of ideal legs using dry mathematical numbers. For this definition, aesthetic perception plays a secondary role. The main thing is the correct proportions and connection points.

The ideal leg shape has the following parameters:

1. The length of the lower limbs is 55% of height.
2. Correct proportional ratio of height and volume of hips and ankles
3. Compliance with the straight line rule. It consists of visually assessing the position of the legs when they are connected. In this position, 3 gaps should be clearly visible: near the perineum, above the knees, below the knees.

Not all people have such perfect legs. In this case, the curvature of the lower extremities is divided into 2 types and 2 types. It can be false and true, it can have the form X or O. Let's figure out how to recognize and classify them.

False curvature

Curvature of the legs, called false, is caused by abnormalities in the soft tissue, its incorrect distribution in the thighs and lower legs. Home distinguishing feature false curvature from the true one is to preserve the correct structure of the bone tissue. That is, in this case we're talking about about “external” changes that can be adjusted. True curvature occurs or, genetic predisposition. In this case, we are talking about changes in bone tissue.

It is often difficult even for an orthopedist to distinguish a false curvature from a true one by visual examination. Therefore, to clarify the diagnosis, an x-ray is always performed.

X curvature

This curvature of bone tissue is also called valgus curvature. To recognize it, stand in front of a mirror, trying to bring your legs together. If present, the final “connection point” will be the knees. After them, it will not be possible to connect the limbs with each other.

There is one more test. Stand near the mirror. Bend one leg at the knee. Carefully observe the second limb that is being emphasized. If it is displaced inward, then an X-deformity is diagnosed.

Another way to suspect you have hallux valgus. With your hands on your waist, do slow squats. During the movement, the knees will “tend” to connect. If your legs are close to ideal shape, then during a squat your knees will bend parallel to your feet.

O curvature

Varus curvature is the second name for type O changes in bone tissue. Unlike the previous form, due to deformation of the leg bones, they take on the shape of the letter O or a wheel. “Divergence” in different directions can begin from any part of the lower extremities (from the thigh or lower leg). During a squat, the kneecaps “tend” outward, spreading the legs in different directions.

Despite the apparent simplicity of diagnosis, it is better to entrust the final diagnosis to an orthopedist. It's based on x-ray will draw conclusions about the falsity or truth of the problem. From this important factor The method of treatment also depends. The absence of a properly selected method for correcting the defect will lead to deterioration in appearance and health problems.

When is therapeutic exercise needed?

Therapeutic gymnastics is an excellent treatment method for false deformity. Such “visible” curvature is not a pathology, because only the “upper” soft tissues are changed. It doesn't affect physical health person, causing only problems of an aesthetic nature.

If the deformation is the result of a genetic predisposition or disease, then it can only be corrected operational methods or using special “pulling” devices.

Performance from therapeutic exercises can be seen after 6-12 months. The recovery period depends on the degree of pathology: the less it is, the faster and more effective the exercises will be.

Pay attention!

The best results are shown by physical therapy for deformed legs in children. In young children, the bone tissue is still soft and elastic, so it is easier to correct.

After the course physical therapy the following goals must be achieved:

• Restored weakened muscle tissue of the lower extremities;
• Corrected functionality ligamentous apparatus;
• deployed in the correct position.

To achieve optimal results, training is carried out regularly, diligently performing all the exercises every day. It is better to entrust their selection to a doctor, since there are restrictions on age and individual characteristics the patient's body. And with some concomitant diseases Physical therapy exercises are contraindicated.

Exercises to correct O-shaped curvature

All workouts begin with “warming up” the muscle tissue. Here is an example of several warm-up exercises.

1. The exercise is performed standing. Lift your toes off the floor, focusing on your heels. Repeat the movement 10-15 times.
2. Sit on a chair with your legs wide apart. Lift your feet off the floor and move them side to side with weight. Repeat the movement 10-15 times
3. Lie down on the floor. Pedal an imaginary bicycle intensively for 3-4 minutes.

The main complex for eliminating the O-defect is aimed at strengthening the muscle tissue of the thighs and lower legs.

Let's look at how to correct a “rounded” defect using exercises.

1. Walk focusing on the inner arch of your feet.
2. Walk first on your heels, then on your toes.
3. Walk up the steps on your toes.
4. Close your legs as tightly as possible. Squat. Make sure that your knees do not “diverge” while squatting.
5. Holding onto any support, make successive swings to the side, first with your right, then with your left limb.
6. Sit on the floor. Focus on your hands. Raise your straight legs from the floor and make sharp swings from side to side, imitating the movements of scissors.
7. Lie on your right side. Lift your straightened left leg off the floor as far as possible. Change your body position.
8. Stand with your feet wide apart. Without lifting your feet from the floor, connect and separate your knees.
9. Learn to do the cross splits.

Training is carried out at least 3 times every 7 days. Each exercise is used in 3 sets of 15 repetitions.

An excellent addition to regular training would be ballet, swimming and ice skating.

Useful video - Dr. A. Artemyev about the dangers and consequences of X-shaped legs. Part 1

Exercises to correct X-shaped curvature

Correcting the shape of X-shaped legs will also require regular exercise. physical culture. Before training, “warm up” your muscle tissue.

1. Walk in a circle on your toes.
2. While standing still, curl your toes as if you want to hide them under your foot.

The goal of gymnastics to eliminate “X” marks on the legs is to develop and strengthen the abductor muscles of the outer femoral surface.

1. Get on your knees and walk around the room in a circle.
2. Get on all fours. Focusing on your knees and elbows, make successive swings with your extended right and then your left leg.
3. Hold a ball between your knees and do deep squats. If the movement is difficult at first, squat without the ball.
4. Stand with one leg bent at the knee. Grasping your knee with your hand, pull it up as high as possible. Then use your hand to turn it to the side. Stretch the muscles in this position for 30-40 seconds. Switch legs and repeat the movement.
5. Sit on the floor with your legs spread out cross-legged. Slowly press your hands on your knees, trying to bring them as close to the floor as possible.
6. Lie on your stomach. Bring your feet together, keeping your knees as far apart as possible. Try to stay in this position for 2-3 minutes. With each lesson, the time spent in a static position is increased by 1 minute. Ultimately it should be 10-15 minutes.

It is recommended to perform this complex three times a week. The exercises require 3 sets of 15 reps each.

An excellent addition to regular training will be classes, breaststroke swimming and horseback riding and cycling.

Useful video - Dr. A. Artemyev. At what age should surgery be performed? Part 2

Leg deformity is an unpleasant defect. It causes numerous complexes in its owners. Considering that the effect from all effective ways treatment does not occur immediately, but after long time, you can use some tricks. They will help to visually hide or significantly reduce the appearance of curvature.

• Overlays.

This is the name for special flesh-colored correctors, which are applied directly in the area of ​​the calf muscle with inside. They allow you to increase the visual volume of your calves by “straightening” your legs. Thick tights or tight trousers will complete the correction.

• Well-chosen clothes.

The curvature of the legs will be hidden by clothes of the “correct” cut:

• Classic trousers or jeans;
• Straight capris;
• Flared skirts and dresses.

If you really want to use short skirts in your wardrobe, combine them with over the knee boots. In all other cases, preference should be given to boots with a wide top.

To achieve the effect of treatment even faster, use our simple recommendations:

1. Don't sleep on your stomach! This body position does not allow the spine to “rest” during night sleep, which causes stiffness of the muscle tissue.
2. Do not constantly wear shoes with high heels. Regular muscle tension leads to stagnation of blood and lymph in the legs. Such disorders cause pain and swelling, contribute to the development of cellulite and.

When starting the long process of “straightening” your legs, you need to be patient and persistent. Regular exercise, massage, and playing the “right” sports will definitely lead to achieving your cherished goal.

The beautiful shape of legs has long occupied the minds of all women. And male, of course! They are the standard of beauty along with thin waist, luxurious hair and healthy skin. Girls who have crooked legs are quite shy, they do not allow themselves to wear short skirts, they feel constrained on the beach or in the pool, and cannot fully liberate themselves in male society.

As soon as ladies realize that they don’t have perfect legs, they immediately start digging through the Internet and looking for photos of “those ones.” But don’t worry if your legs don’t meet the standards; there are many factors that influence their structure: age, gender, race. Let's look at what classification of lower extremities exists, how to properly hide leg imperfections, and also give a few useful tips how to fix bow legs.

What kind of straight legs are they? There is a basic rule by which the ideal shape is determined: contact in 4 places. The photo below shows that these are the following points:

• mid thighs;
• mid-calf;
• knees;
• heels.

If these parts touch each other in the indicated places, then the girl has beautiful legs, and she can safely wear dresses of any length! With various deviations from this rule, it must be said that there is curvature of the legs, which is divided into the following types, their photos are given below:

1. if only the heels touch, and there is a kind of gap in the area of ​​the knees and shins, then this means that the lower limbs have an O-shaped curvature;
2. if the only point of contact is the knees, we can talk about an x-shaped curvature. With this shape of the legs, the ankles are spread apart.

Based on the classification of deviations, types of curvature are determined.

False curvature of the legs

It does not depend on bone formation. This is exclusively a feature of the formation of the soft tissues of the lower extremities; usually deviations are visible in the thighs and lower legs. Often they talk about poorly developed muscles or non-standard attachment of the calf muscles. If a girl wants to correct such crooked legs, then it is enough to go through a set of special exercises. After some time, the fair sex will be able to wear any miniskirt without embarrassment!

The true curvature of the legs depends on the structure itself bone skeleton. In this case, only surgical intervention can correct the shape.

How can you independently determine the structure of your legs?

Exists simple test by determining the curvature of the lower extremities, thanks to which at home you can determine whether your legs are crooked or not:

1. you need to stand exactly in front of the mirror: knees and heels are closed, toes are spread slightly to the sides;
2. check: if all the above 4 points are in contact and there are no gaps between them, then we can safely talk about ideal legs;
3. if, with the feet tightly closed, the knees do not close, but a deformation in the shape of the letter O is formed, then we speak of an O-shaped curvature;
4. and if, on the contrary, with the knees closed, the feet are spread apart, then an X-shaped deformity is present.

For what reasons is deformation possible?

In addition to searching the Internet for photos showing crooked legs, girls ask questions: why did the shape of the legs suddenly become deformed? There are several main points due to which ideal legs become crooked, to avoid this you must adhere to the basic rules:

1. try to ensure that the body weight is never concentrated on one leg, do not sit for a long time in a cross-legged position;
2. in rare cases, wear shoes with very high heels; the right shoes can correct this deficiency;
3. never stand on one leg, because it can bend under the weight of its own body;
4. give up the habit of putting your socks inside, such a seemingly harmless position can seriously deform your limbs;
5. if a woman often carries a heavy bag on one shoulder, this can also deform the shape of her legs and spine;
6. If a woman’s favorite sleeping position is on her side, then it is better to abandon it. Experts come to the conclusion that this position bends the legs over time.

How to avoid surgery?

Naturally, any girl who does not have perfect legs wants to know how to hide crooked legs or correct their shape without lying on the operating table. If the curvature of the legs is insignificant, then it can be hidden with the right clothes, but if the crooked legs are very “conspicuous”, then special corrective exercises will help to get out of the situation.

Here is a set of similar exercises:

1. Stand on the floor with your feet shoulder-width apart, now rise on your toes, trying to reach as high as possible.
2. An old exercise - cycling - can perfectly correct leg deformities. Lying on the floor, spin imaginary pedals for a couple of minutes.
3. The next exercise is scissors. Lying on the floor on your stomach, lift your legs off the floor by 20-25 cm.
4. The funny frog pose will also help make your legs straight; to do this you need to squat down, spreading your legs as wide as possible. You need to sit in this position for about 5 minutes, and over time, increase the duration of the interval to 20 minutes. Quite a complex exercise that perfectly strengthens the muscles of the thighs and lower legs.
5. An excellent exercise for the hips would be the following: you need to lie on your side and lift the leg that is in contact with the floor, holding it for at least 20-25 seconds. Then you need to turn to the other side and repeat with the other leg. If you feel that one leg is weaker than the other, then it needs to be given more load.
6. Don’t forget about daily stretching of the thigh muscles; the following pose is perfect: standing on the floor, bend your knee and bring your heel to your buttocks, stand like that for about a minute, then move to the other foot.

In addition to a set of exercises, daily jogging, simple squats, and exercises on an exercise bike will help correct the curvature of the lower extremities. All exercises must be done on a regular basis. If you resort to them from time to time, there will be no result.
If physical exercise do not help get rid of this physical defect, then expensive surgical intervention cannot be avoided. In this case, leg correction using the Ilizarov apparatus, cruroplasty, will help. These operations are quite complex and require strength, patience and a fairly impressive amount of money.

Selecting a wardrobe

Almost any imperfections in your figure or body structure can be hidden with the help of clothing. If you wear the right things, people around you will never notice your uneven legs. On the Internet or glossy magazines you can always find photos of a wardrobe specially created for the fair sex who have problems with bowed legs. Here's what's ideal for those who want to hide this physical defect:

• Maxi skirts will always cover uneven legs, especially now they are at the peak of fashion. It is better to choose skirts made of dense, high-quality fabric that will not deform when walking. And in order to distract the eyes of others from your legs, you can make a bright accent on the belt and bright jewelry.
• But under no circumstances should you wear skirts that reach mid-calf; such a cut will immediately emphasize their curvature.
• For girls with uneven legs, wide-leg trousers or straight-cut or loose-fit boyfriend jeans are perfect.
• You need to avoid jeans with bleached stripes and avoid vertical or bright designs.
• You shouldn’t give up on capri pants, just remember to keep them loose below the knee.
• Boots with a wide top will help to hide the lack of legs perfectly, but these should be soft leather or suede shoes.
• If your legs are quite full, you can afford heels, but for girls with uneven and skinny legs It's better to forget about stilettos.
• Thick, plain tights will ideally hide the deformation, but a large abstract pattern will draw unnecessary attention to your legs.

If nature has not awarded a woman with perfect legs, then this is not a reason to be upset and withdraw into herself. You can always find a way out of the situation, do various exercises, hide the curvature with the right clothes, because almost any defect can be hidden or corrected, if only you wish!