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Exercises to correct the curvature of the shaped legs. Straightening your legs with surgery: the real story of our reader

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:

The length of the lower limbs is 55% of height.
Correct proportional relationship between height and volume of hips and ankles
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 the truth is to maintain the correct structure bone tissue. That is, in this case we're talking about about “external” changes that can be adjusted. True curvature arises or, genetic predisposition. In this case, we are talking about changes in bone tissue.

It is often difficult even for an orthopedist to distinguish false curvature from 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 the legs are close to perfect shape, then during the squat the knees will bend parallel to the 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. Based on the x-ray, he 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 does not affect a person’s physical health, causing only problems of an aesthetic nature.

If the deformity is the result of a genetic predisposition or disease, then it can be corrected only by surgical methods or the use of special “pulling” devices.

The effectiveness of 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.

Note!

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 for 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.

The exercise is performed standing. Lift your toes off the floor, focusing on your heels. Repeat the movement 10-15 times.
Sit on a chair with your legs wide apart. Lift your feet off the surface of the floor and move them side to side with weight. Repeat the movement 10-15 times
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.

Walk focusing on the inner arch of your feet.
Walk first on your heels, then on your toes.
Walk up the steps on your toes.
Close your legs as tightly as possible. Squat. Make sure that your knees do not “diverge” while squatting.
Holding onto any support, make successive swings to the side, first with your right, then with your left limb.
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.
Lie on your right side. Tear off the straightened one from the floor level left leg as much as possible. Change your body position.
Stand with your feet wide apart. Without lifting your feet from the floor, connect and separate your knees.
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.

A great addition to regular training There will be ballet classes, swimming and skating.

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

Exercises to correct X-shaped curvature

To correct the X-shape figurative legs Regular classes will also be required physical culture. Before training, “warm up” your muscle tissue.

Walk in a circle on your toes.
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.

Get on your knees and walk around the room in a circle.
Get on all fours. Focusing on your knees and elbows, make successive swings with your extended right and then your left leg.
Hold a ball between your knees and do deep squats. If the movement is difficult at first, squat without the ball.
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.
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.
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 that are applied directly to the calf muscle on the 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:

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.
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.

In 2001, the leading Russian orthopedic surgeon, Doctor of Medical Sciences Alexander Artemyev, developed the most popular classification of leg shape today, which is generally recognized and is used as the basis in methods of correction of the lower extremities.

In addition to classification, Dr. Artemyev introduced such terms and concepts as ideal legs, their true and false curvature.

What do these concepts mean, how to correct crooked legs at home? How to determine your shape? Find out the answers right now.

The beauty of legs is a concept that everyone builds on personal aesthetic perception. Just beautiful, that's all, you say. But it turns out that ideal legs exist, and their shape is calculated mathematically.

They should reach a length of up to 55% of your height, and it is also necessary to maintain certain proportions between body height and the volume of the hips and ankles. But the main thing is the straight line rule: if you draw an imaginary straight line from the middle of the thigh through the closed knees and ankles, then along the smooth inner contour of the limb three gaps will be visible: from the perineum to knee joints, under the cramped knees to the calves and from the calf muscles to the ankles. In front of you are perfect legs. But not everyone has been blessed with such things by nature. Anthropometric cosmetology deals with the correction of such defects.

The legs of many men and women are characterized by curvature, varying in severity and divided into two types - false and true. What is it and what is their fundamental difference?

1. True Such curvature is the result anatomical features or deformities of the skeletal bones of the femur and lower leg. The lower limbs seem to form an arc. The cause of true, that is, bone curvature, is most often hereditary genes or transferred to at a young age diseases, such as rickets, or metabolic disorders. 2. False This kind of curvature is a disproportionate distribution of the soft tissues of the thigh and lower leg with an even, without defects, position of the skeletal bones. We can say that false curvature is the appearance of curvature in its real absence.

Types of true curvature and methods for determining them at home

True curvature is divided into two types:

O-shaped or varus

People with such bone deformities are said to have legs like wheels or like a football player. Wherever the discrepancy begins - from the level of the hip or the area below the knee, the shape of the legs will still end up looking like the letter “O”. The knees will “fall out” of the three ideal points of contact - they will not close with such a deformation. X-shaped, or valgus In this case, the knees, on the contrary, close tightly, but the ankles cannot come together. As a result, the shape of the lower limbs resembles the letter “X” and such people are said to have “X” legs.

We offer simple mini-test:

Stand straight in front of the mirror, bend one limb and observe the kneecap of the straight supporting leg. If it is displaced inward, you have an O-shaped deformity; if it is displaced outward, you have an X-shaped deformity.
Place your hands on your belt and do a simple squat at a slow pace. Watch your knees: with an O-shaped curvature, they tend to the sides, with an X-shaped curvature, they want to connect, if the legs are straight, they bend parallel to the feet.

An x-ray will help to finally put an end to this issue. She will not be deceived by false curvature - in the picture the axis of the leg, no matter what impression the disproportionately distributed muscles make, will be straight.

It must be said that distortion of the lower extremities is not only a problem of aesthetics. This can harm your legs and back. But today, almost any curvature can be straightened and leveled - it can be done independently or using special techniques.

Peculiarity! There are cases when valgus and varus refer to false curvature. As a result of age-related changes or ligament injuries, joints that are not held together by them may become loose, and as a result, the knees may stop closing. It can be difficult to figure out on your own why the shape of your legs is distorted and to distinguish false curvature from true one.

False curvature - what to do to win?

Let us immediately emphasize that false leg deformity is not a pathology. It does not cause harm to physical health, but represents only an aesthetic defect. This means that we are quite capable of correcting crooked legs without surgery.

How to correct and correct true curvature? We will start the correction with proper physical activity. The result, depending on the degree of deformation, can be seen in six months to a year, and even completely get rid of the defect. But time and effort will not be wasted - your body will become healthier and stronger overall, you will look and feel much better. And the proposed complexes can be performed not only in the gym, but even independently at home.

A set of exercises for correcting O-legs

How to make your legs straight with this type of defect? The impact should be aimed at strengthening the adductor muscles, as well as the lower leg. So, we present to you exercises for crooked legs at home.

Walking on the inner arches of the feet and on the heels with the toes pointing outwards, lifting on the toes and others.
Run or walk up stairs, raising your toes with each step. Can be replaced.
Squats: as deep as possible with knees brought together, the second type is ballet “Plie”. The legs are spread as wide as possible, the toes point in different directions, the emphasis when moving is on the inner thigh. .
Swing your leg to the side from a standing position - free or with.
Straight leg raises: one leg lying on your side, alternately from a sitting position with support on your hands behind you
vertical and horizontal or .
Lunges. Move your body weight to the heel of the working limb, lifting from a lunge - without jerking, with tension on the buttocks, not the knee.
Mixing and breeding. Feet - shoulder-width apart, bring your knees closer and apart without lifting the entire surface of your feet from the floor.
Cross "twine". Not only straightens, but also lengthens limbs.

Classes must be conducted three times a week, every other day. Walking takes 5-10 minutes, and with your arms connected it can be considered a warm-up. Each exercise - 3 sets of 12-15 repetitions.

To correct O-shaped curvature of the legs, it is useful to engage in speed skating, ballet and swimming. Also watch the video on how to straighten your legs using exercises:

Below you can see photos of o-shaped types in women before and after training:

A set of exercises for adjusting X-legs

The abductor muscles of the outer thigh are to be worked.

Walking on the outer arches of the feet.
The so-called and others.
We gradually increase the weight from session to session.
with the toe pulled towards you - from a position with emphasis on your knees and elbows, lying on your side or standing.
The step to the side should be wide, arms extended in front of you, heels not coming off the floor.
Squats – regular or with a ball held between the knees.
Static exercise
Knee abduction. Standing on one leg, pull the other knee higher and turn it as far back as possible (this element can be seen in ballet). Do it on each limb in turn.
Turkish squat. In this position, press on your knees, bringing them as close to the floor as possible. Do the same, slightly changing your position and bringing your soles together.
Lying on your stomach, place your soles together and spread your knees apart. Hold for at least 3 minutes, gradually increase the time to 10-15 minutes.

This exercise is also performed 3 times during the week, for each exercise - 3 sets of 12-15 repetitions.

Sports that will benefit X-shaped legs are yoga, breaststroke swimming, horseback riding and cycling.

In the given complexes, the load is directed to the target muscles and, in combination with stretching, can increase the volume of the calves, correct the hips and shape of the legs.

We present to you photos of x-shaped legs in women before and after exercises:

Important! The most effective exercise to add volume to the calves - calf raises. For extension muscle mass you need to do more than 50 and more reps, and 12-15 in three approaches, preferably with an additional weight of 10-20 kg until the muscles burn slightly during the last repetitions. Remember to stretch, keep your knees slightly bent during the exercise, and position your feet correctly with your toes in or out, depending on the problem.

True curvature - 5 ways to correct it

Unlike false curvature of the legs, where efforts to eliminate it must be directed to working with muscles and fat deposits, true one is skeletal deformation. And here we need more effective methods, with the involvement of medical specialists. What is offered for this today?

1. Surgery

There can be two options for orthopedic surgery:

1. Surgical intervention with installation of the Ilizarov apparatus on the shin bones

10 days after installation, the process of bone correction begins, which consists of applying compression to the bone by regularly tightening the nuts for 1.5-2 months.

Use is recommended no earlier than 14 years of age. After removing the device, active physical exercise excluded for 4-6 weeks. This method can be called traditional, but, according to experts, its use gives the maximum result.

2. Operation in the clinic plastic surgery called cruroplasty.

It can be carried out using two methods - installation on the lower leg area, in the area of the calf muscle, corrective silicone implants of the required shape and size, and lipofilling, when a volume is formed in the same area of the legs from fat cells pumped out from the patient’s abdomen. The operation lasts an hour and a half, rehabilitation takes 1.5-2 months. The disadvantages include the fact that over time, implants can move on their own, distorting the shape of the leg, as well as a ban on playing sports.

2. Massage

As an independent measure, massage to correct the curvature of the legs is effective only for children under the age of three years.

He can help adult patients only if the key to the problem with the limbs lies in the back area, and an experienced chiropractor has undertaken to eliminate the defect.

But still the massage remains auxiliary measure It is not able to completely eliminate bone deformation.

3. Pull-up machine

The principle of action is horizontal stretching of the spine and legs.

With regular exercise, it gradually relieves spasms and tension in bones and joints, restores blood circulation, and lengthens the limbs.

4. Correction belts

This device consists of three length-adjustable belts that grip the legs in three places.

In this position, you should perform a number of exercises described in the instructions.

5. Visual effect

A few little tricks will help ensure this.

Overlays.

Flesh-colored silicone corrector pads will help to visually correct the curvature and create the appearance of increasing the volume of the calves. They must be attached directly to the limb - on the inside, in the area of the calf muscle. After this, you can wear tight tights or skinny jeans.

The right clothes.

To hide crooked legs with clothes, your wardrobe needs straight classic trousers or jeans, straight-cut breeches, maxi or midi length skirts or dresses - flared and puffy, boots with a loose top and over the knee boots to wear with shorts or a short skirt.

Check out the photos below before and after correcting true curvature using various methods:

If you are on the path to correcting false curvature of your legs, try to say goodbye to several bad habits:

sleep on your stomach After all, in this position the spine does not rest and a difference in the length of the limbs can form, but it is often quite insignificant. The effect of constantly sleeping on your stomach is the same as carrying a bag on one shoulder;
cross your legs while sitting and cross your legs while standing;
go to high heels, which constantly keeps the muscles tense. The result is a deterioration in blood circulation and lymph flow, pain and swelling in the extremities, the development of varicose veins and the formation of cellulite.

Step by step - to the feet of your dreams.

Much that is a tragedy for us is perceived by others as something insignificant or even unnoticeable. Spectacular beautiful legs are the dream of every girl. But there are no people who do not have their own special beauty at all. Learn to correctly place accents in your appearance, be an interesting conversationalist and, of course, do not give up your dream of having beautiful legs. Even women after forty can correct defects. Go towards it step by step, achieve your goal using our advice and recommendations - and you will have everything will definitely work out!

O-shaped curvature (varus deformity) is the most common reason for cosmetic orthopedic correction of the shape of the legs (about 15-20 times more often than X-shaped curvature).

Classification of leg shape (Artemyev A.A., 2001):

Perfect legs;
True O-shaped curvature (varus deformity);

Below is a video on how to fix crooked legs

What is O-shaped curvature

Using the classification, it is easy to independently determine what shape your legs are and decide whether something needs to be changed or not.

Perfect legs. The knees, calves and feet close together, with three spaces between them.
True O-shaped curvature (varus deformity). The knee joints do not close when the feet are closed, and a spindle-shaped defect of the internal contour is formed from the perineum to the feet.
Associated with the distribution of soft tissues on the lower leg. With false curvature, the knees and feet close together, but the calves do not. As a result, a soft tissue defect is formed from the knees to the ankles, and the appearance of thin and crooked legs is created.
- the knees close, the feet do not close.

It is very important that timely correction of shin deformities allows not only to achieve a very good aesthetic result, but also prevents the development of diseases of the knee joints in adulthood and old age. Incorrect distribution of loads during varus deformity leads to uneven and premature “wear” of the knee joints.

Therefore, timely correction of the curvature of the legs is a measure to prevent arthrosis of the knee joints.

Three options for correcting the shape of the legs

You can rest assured that we will make perfect legs in almost any case. The point is how long this process will take. We offer three ways to correct leg varus deformity:

Ilizarov correction (see details below);
Express method;
Improved express method.

Express methods involve fixation with a pin, which significantly reduces rehabilitation time - in fact, you can begin active rehabilitation within 19 days after surgery

If you think you have false curvature -

Principles of leg shape correction using the Ilizarov apparatus

O-shaped curvature- the most common reason for cosmetic orthopedic correction of the shape of the legs (about 15-20 times more often than).

General principle correction of the shape of the legs - intersection of the bone in the area of deformity and fusion in the correct position.

To perform an osteotomy, it is not necessary to make a large skin incision. A small (5 mm) puncture and one suture are sufficient. With an aesthetically favorable distribution of soft tissue on the lower leg, an excellent result can be achieved without completely crossing the bone, but only by breaking it on one side. This allows us to expect a reduction in treatment time by 5-15%.

After crossing the bone (osteotomy), it is necessary to bring the limb axis to the correct position and fix it in this position until fusion.

X-shaped deformation is corrected in the same way, only the direction of displacement of the bone fragments is exactly the opposite.

The ideal device for bringing the limb axis into the correct position and fixation is the Ilizarov apparatus. Unfortunately, not everyone realizes the possibilities of this method. The maximum experience in using the Ilizarov apparatus has been accumulated in Russia. For the purpose of aesthetic correction of the shape of the legs, we have been using this method since 1996. During this time, more than 1.5 thousand corrections and lengthenings of the thigh and lower leg were performed at the most various states- different leg lengths, improper healing of fractures and, of course, with increased height and cosmetic correction of shape.

The Ilizarov apparatus allows:

correct angular deformity;
perform medialization;
eliminate rotational displacements;
remove the protruding head of the fibula;
lengthen a limb.

More simplified open-loop designs have limited capabilities. At the same time, the Ilizarov apparatus can be covered with trousers without any problems and weighs only 900 grams.

Angular correction

Angular correction is the easiest way to correct the shape of your legs. At the request of the patient, using the Ilizarov apparatus, any curvature can be corrected, regardless of the type and severity.

The effect of angular correction in cases of pronounced O-shaped curvature of the legs.
On the left is a 19-year-old girl, on the right is a 26-year-old man.

A prerequisite for obtaining an excellent result by performing angular correction alone is an aesthetically favorable distribution of soft tissues on the lower leg - when calf muscles located on the inner surface of the legs. The reason for this condition lies in the peculiarities of the attachment of the head of the gastrocnemius muscle, and not in the fact that the muscles are not “pumped up”. Physical exercise V in this case will not lead to success.

When correcting varus deformity, medialization can be performed simultaneously, which will significantly improve the aesthetic effect.

Medialization of the tibia

Medialization is the inward displacement of the peripheral (lower) fragment of the tibia after osteotomy. In modern pin-rod devices, this procedure is performed at the patient’s request almost painlessly and gradually by twisting the rods in the process of correcting the curvature.

At the request of patients, angular correction is complemented by medialization in almost 60% of cases and significantly improves the aesthetic effect.

Rotation

Rotational displacement is caused by the installation of the limb in a position of displacement around the longitudinal axis.

This type of deformation occurs in 2-3% of cases and can be unilateral (asymmetrical) or bilateral. Correction of rotation is carried out in case of significant severity or asymmetry on different legs.

Appearance female patient 19 years old before and after combined correction
(angular correction + medialization + rotation + lengthening of the legs by 3 cm).
On the right are radiographs during the correction process.

Reduction of the protruding head of the fibula

A protruding head of the fibula in combination with varus deformity occurs in no more than 1% of cases.

Appearance of a 26-year-old man before and after correction (correction of varus deformity + reduction of the head of the fibula + lengthening of the tibia by 1.5 cm)

Lowering the head of the fibula involves lengthening the legs by 1-2 cm, which significantly enhances the cosmetic effect.

Elongation

Limb lengthening is based on the discovery of G.A. Ilizarov - biological tissues respond to stretching with regeneration. This is achieved by increasing the distance between the rings of the apparatus, which entails an increase in the distance between bone fragments and, accordingly, stretching of the tissue.

Scheme of limb lengthening using the Ilizarov apparatus

(correction of O-shaped curvature + medialization + lengthening 4.5 cm)

Lengthening by a small amount (2-4 cm) in order to optimize proportions significantly improves the aesthetic effect when correcting curvature of the legs, completely changes a person’s self-esteem, and often his lifestyle.

Ways to reduce treatment and rehabilitation time when correcting crooked legs

The average time from surgery to removal of the devices is 3 months. In the case of leg lengthening, you need to add approximately 1 month for each centimeter of lengthening. The specified period assumes a gradual increase in loads and activity during the fixation process and the ability to fully load the legs and walk freely without restrictions immediately after removing the devices. You can remove the devices earlier, for example, after 50-60 days. However, after this you will have to sharply limit the load (even walking with crutches) for another month and a half until the final fusion occurs.

There are the following ways to reduce treatment time:

a gradual increase in loads on the legs (under the supervision of a doctor) reduces the time of fixation with Ilizarov apparatuses by 5-10%;
incomplete osteotomy reduces the fixation period by 5-15%.

Alternative correction methods (without Ilizarov apparatus)

osteotomy with plate fixation allows you to correct curvature of the legs without Ilizarov apparatus;
osteotomy with devices moving the legs into the correct position and subsequent transition to fixation with a rod allows you to remove the devices approximately a month after the operation and immediately begin rehabilitation.

Features of rehabilitation

Rehabilitation is recovery from temporary limitations of function. After surgery, restoration of motor activity should occur gradually and strictly in accordance with the doctor’s recommendations.

Gradual expansion of activity mode is made easier with use special means support and movement.

Modern means support and movement after surgery

Additional information and frequently asked questions

At the decision-making stage and during the correction process, additional questions often arise. Answers to all the questions listed below - Here you can find out what examination is necessary before surgery, how to properly take photos for an absentee consultation, and much more.

Often asked:

— Will exercises help correct the true curvature of the legs?
- No, they won’t help. The reason is bone deformation, which is the reason for this shape of the legs.

— Will exercises help in cases where there is false curvature of the legs?
- No, they won’t help. False curvature of the legs is associated with the distribution of soft tissues. Many people believe that there is a deficiency of soft tissue, the muscle is not “pumped up”. In fact, muscle volume in all people is usually proportional to the volume of the lower leg. But for some, the calf muscle is located on the inner surface, it is clearly visible, and it’s beautiful. Other people seem to have small calf muscles. In fact, the volume is sufficient, but these muscles are displaced posteriorly. Exercises will increase their volume, but this will not reduce the deficiency of the internal contour, which actually creates the impression of false curvature of the legs.

— The child’s legs are crooked, what should I do?
- If the child is between 0 and 8 years old, then the shape changes at this age. You just need to observe. If this causes serious concern, and the curvature is pronounced, then you need to contact a pediatric orthopedist to identify various diseases that can cause deformation of the legs. The effectiveness of massage, exercise and other conservative methods at this age is greatly exaggerated. If the deformity is a consequence of diseases, for example, Blount's disease, then the operation should be performed without delay. If the curvature of the legs is a structural feature, then it is better to wait until the growth zones close. This usually occurs between the ages of 14 and 18. This is the optimal age to correct the so-called. idiopathic varus or valgus deformity.

— Does shin deformation affect the position of the foot?
- Yes, it does. As a rule, these are interconnected processes. Parents pay more attention to the position of the foot, as problems arise with the selection of shoes. In fact, in such cases it is necessary to examine the entire child. The shape of the entire lower limb needs to be assessed. In 90% of cases of foot deformity, a careful examination will reveal deformation of the knee joints, different leg lengths, and much more. Moreover, the correction must begin from top to bottom - first the hips, then the legs, and only then the feet.

If you want to study the problem in more detail, we recommend that you refer to this book:

If you are interested in the problem under consideration and you want to receive Additional information or professional consultation, call +7 909 641-36-41

Photo gallery of works

Woman 27 years old. Varus deformity of the legs.

Male 21 years old. Varus (true O-shaped) deformity of the legs, short stature. We performed angular correction, medialization, and lengthened the tibia by 4 cm (see detailed patient diary).

Is it a trifle or a tragedy to have someone who is not very attractive? Can false curvature of the legs affect our quality of life? It would seem that there is no point in concentrating attention on this problem, since most people on earth are very far from perfect. Stars such as Christina Aguilera, Paris Hilton, Demi Moore, Angelina Jolie are bright representatives of a leg shape that can only be described as “figurative curvature.”

But for any representative of the fair sex, being the owner of beautiful legs means owning men’s hearts, being self-confident, and arousing the envious glances of friends.

A person, and especially a woman, is designed in such a way that, in addition to her desire, she will concentrate on her flaw, which may seem insignificant or invisible to others.

Therefore, if you strive to overcome your complexes and achieve psychological comfort, then you certainly need to correct or correct such a defect as false curvature of the legs. Know that this can be done and is quite possible. First, let's figure out what types of leg deformities exist.

Types of leg curvature

Deformation or curvature of the lower leg can be true or false. True curvature of the legs is a curvature of the bone tissue of the lower leg (skeleton).

It can be X-shaped or O-shaped.

The O-shape is the most common. Such legs will diverge in different directions, resembling arcs. The discrepancy will begin at the hip level for someone else, and at the knees for another, but still, in the end, the shape of the legs will resemble the letter “O”;
The X-shaped deformity is characterized by the fact that the feet and legs will not touch in any way, but the knees, on the contrary, fit tightly to each other. The shape of the legs will resemble the letter "X".

True deformation most often occurs as a result of diseases suffered in childhood, such as rickets and metabolic disorders.

Crooked legs can also be inherited according to the laws of genetics.

False curvature of the legs - occurs due to deformation of soft tissues such as calves. In this case, there is no curvature of the shin bones.

False curvature of the legs is not a pathology. It is not capable of causing damage to your physical health, being only an aesthetic flaw.

There are two ways to correct the unsightly shape of your legs:

Surgical intervention is more often used for true curvature of the tibia, and only when there are health indications (arthritis, arthrosis, etc.). For false curvature of the legs, surgery is performed extremely rarely;
Physical activity and exercise is a way that can correct false curvature of the legs by pumping up the calf muscles.

If you want to get closer to an example of perfection, then you need to clearly understand and realize what this example is. To do this, you need to understand what the ideal looks like.

What is the ideal leg shape?

Legs are considered beautiful if they are of sufficient length, that is, they make up 51-55% of your body;
The proportionality of the volume of the hips and ankles is also a sign of the beauty of the legs. If the height is 161-167 cm, the volume of one hip should be 56 cm, and the ankles 34 cm. If the height is 168-175 cm, the hip volume should be 57 cm, and the ankles 35 cm, etc., according to the progression;
Rule of a straight line: if you draw a straight line through your leg from the middle of the thigh through the kneecap to the ankle, and the ankles, shins and knees themselves touch the inner surfaces, then such legs are close to ideal.

It is forbidden to frequently sleep on your stomach. It is advisable to avoid this habit altogether. Firstly, it is harmful to the spine, which does not rest in this way. Secondly, it contributes to the development different lengths legs All people have a difference in leg length, but it is often quite insignificant. If you constantly sleep on your stomach, then in the end this difference can increase significantly from millimeters to centimeters. By the way, the habit of wearing a bag on the same shoulder can create the same effect;
The habit of crossing your legs, both sitting and standing, does not improve their shape;
Try not to wear high heels often. Uncomfortable shoes causes the calf muscles to be in a constantly tense state. This impairs blood circulation and lymph flow in the legs and calves. Which leads not only to pain and swelling, but can contribute to the development of varicose veins and cellulite.

So, now that we have established the ideal and determined our capabilities, we can understand what the curvature needs to correct it - physical activity and exercise.

How you can correct false curvature of your legs yourself by pumping up your calves

Building up your calf muscles is difficult, but possible. Exercises can be done not only in the gym, but also at home.

In the gym, you can use a special exercise machine, which will allow you to work out the necessary muscle groups in more isolation.

At home, you can pump up your calves by correcting false curvature of your legs using a simple set of exercises.

Knowing these facts will help you pump up your calves as effectively as possible.

The calf consists of the triceps muscle. One of them is internal, the second is external - they are superficial. The third, lying in the depths, is called the soleus.

The internal soleus muscle creates the bulk of the calf.

The muscle, which is located superficially, is pumped in a standing position, and the soleus in a sitting position;
It is necessary to approach classes wisely, avoiding overload. To do this, you should do exercises not every day, but every other day, allowing the muscles to recover;
Before training, you need to warm up your calves well, which will protect you from injury. You can warm them up with simple self-massage and rubbing;
After training, it is necessary to stretch, as it will restore blood circulation and relieve fatigue;
When pumping up your calves, you need to turn your socks outward and keep your heels together, which will allow you to perform the exercises correctly and effectively.

A set of exercises to correct false curvature of the legs at home

Starting position: sit on the floor or bed, but so that you can straighten your legs in front of you, support yourself behind you. Pull the sock away from you, as if you were a ballerina, as far as possible. Then, pull the toe towards you, while keeping the calf muscles as tense as possible. Do this exercise first with your right and then with your left leg, alternately. Do 10 repetitions with each leg;
Starting position: stand up, keep your back straight. Slowly rise on your toes as high as possible, then lower yourself. Remember to keep your toes pointed out and your heels together. Do 10 times, three approaches. You can do this exercise with weights in the form of dumbbells;
Starting position – stand on your toes, keep your back straight. Start walking on your toes, keep your knees pressed tightly together, try not to bend them. This will allow you to give maximum load. Walk for 2-3 minutes. Then take a break, you can do some stretching. Repeat walking on your toes for a few minutes;
Starting position – stand at the support. If you have good balance, you can do without it. Bend your right leg at the knee, and on your left, begin to slowly rise onto your toes, then lower yourself so that your foot completely touches the floor. We perform slow lifts on each leg 20 times. Rest a little, then do the second approach. Only now we do the climbs as intensely as possible. Each leg 25 times;
Starting position - standing, bring your heels together, toes apart, take dumbbells in your hands. Do squats on your toes – 20 times. Heels should not touch the floor;
The most accessible exercise is walking up the stairs. The advantage of the exercise is that in addition to the calves, you will also pump up the gluteal muscle.

So, dear ladies, everything is possible. Going towards your goal is always more pleasant with beautiful and slender legs.

Slender legs have long been considered one of the components of the standard female beauty. Owners of long, straight legs are happy to demonstrate their advantages, sometimes turning them into serious weapons, striking down representatives of the courageous half of humanity. Many girls dream of wearing short skirts and shorts, catching the admiring glances of fans. Well, what should those who have been deprived of by nature do?

What can determine the shape of the legs?

The shape of any part of the body, including the legs, depends on genetic, ethnic and gender characteristics. In fact, it is as individual as, for example, the shape of the auricle or nose. With age, the body undergoes various transformations - the articular-ligamentous apparatus weakens, subcutaneous fat, muscles degrade, body weight increases, creating additional loads on the skeleton, etc. For these reasons, the shape of the legs also changes.

What is false curvature and how does it differ from true curvature?

Ideally, the legs should have several points of contact - at the knees, in the area of the convex part of the shins and at the ankles. Orthopedic surgeons distinguish between true and false curvature of the legs. These two states are fundamentally different. True curvature is the result of structural features or deformation of the bones of the lower extremities. False - a consequence of the disproportionate distribution of soft tissues (muscle and fat) during correct location skeletal bones.

True curvature, in turn, can be varus, i.e. resemble the letter “O”, in which the knees do not touch, or valgus - when the shape of the legs is similar to the letter “X”. In this case, on the contrary, the knees touch and the ankles are moved away from each other.

With false curvature, in most cases a gap forms between the convex parts of the legs, forming a spindle-shaped defect. However, there are also combined cases where valgus and varus curvature also have a false character due to “looseness” of the joints due to age-related or traumatic damage to the ligaments. The diagram below shows the types of leg curvature with the exception of the combined type: it is a combination of false curvature with non-closing knees.

a - closure at three points (ideal legs); b - non-closure of the knees (true O-shaped curvature); c - non-closure of the ankles (true X-shaped curvature); d - non-closure of the soft tissues of the upper third of the legs (false curvature)

It is enough to pay attention to the shape of a newborn’s legs to understand that we all come into this world with the following “disadvantage”: the legs resemble the letter “O” and become straight by approximately two years. In some cases, by the age of three, the curvature occurs in the opposite direction, giving the legs the appearance of the letter “X,” but by the age of six or seven, the legs of most children are completely straightened.

In what cases is surgery necessary?

Almost any type of limb curvature today can be effectively eliminated. In some cases, this can be achieved independently, and in more complex cases, through surgery.

Surgery is performed for any true curvature, as it is related to the structure of the skeleton. Straightening bones is impossible with any procedures or exercises. In such cases, they resort to special orthopedic operations with the installation of an Ilizarov corrective apparatus on the bones of the lower leg, the use of which gives the maximum result.

As for the need for surgery for false curvature of the legs, it is performed only when conservative methods of correction (gymnastics, massage, physiotherapeutic procedures) have not had the desired effect. In this case, surgical correction of the shape of the lower leg is performed either by cruroplasty or by lipolifting.

Restoring the shape of the lower leg using cruroplasty (photo)

Back view. Scars are almost invisible

In the first case, the surgeon installs corrective silicone implants on the patient’s inner segments of the lower leg, and in the second, he uses his own for plastic surgery. adipose tissue, removing them from the stomach. With both methods, implants are inserted through small incisions, after which the skin is stitched with a cosmetic suture, which will not be noticeable later. The operations are performed under general anesthesia.

Plastic surgery of the legs using silicone implants has significant disadvantages - the inserts, installed through an incision under the knee between the muscles of the leg, can move over time, again disrupting the shape of the leg. In this case, they will need to be removed. In addition, with installed implants, unfortunately, you cannot play sports.

Special sets of exercises

The proposed universal complex consists of nine simple exercises that can be done at home. The main condition for success is regular exercise. If you do it occasionally, you shouldn’t count on good result. For greater clarity and convenience, you can look at the pictures below.

Rise onto your tiptoes, holding onto the back of the chair. You need to do the exercise 10–15 times in 5 approaches.
Do similar movements while standing on one leg. In this case, the number of lifts can be reduced.
Stand on a small elevation so that your heels hang freely, for example, on a board or block, and then rise on your tiptoes, then touch your heels to the floor at the lowest point. Do the exercise in three sets lasting 25–30 seconds each.
Jump as high as possible, while trying not to bend your knees. It is necessary to do three sets of 5-6 jumps.
Perform the jumps described above, but on one leg.
Sit on a chair and place a heavy object on your knees, and then raise your feet on your toes 40-50 times. Recommended item weight is 5 kg.
Sit on the floor and press your feet against the wall. Hold the position for 5 seconds, then relax for 10–15 seconds and repeat the exercise 3–4 times again at the same interval.
Squat without lifting your heels off the floor, while trying to touch your buttocks to your calves. You need to do 3 sets of 12–15 squats.
Do the same squats as described in the previous exercise, but stand with your toes on a slight elevation (5–7 cm). You are allowed to hold on to the support.

A universal set of exercises for correcting the shape of the legs (tips for instructions)

How to correct depending on the type and degree of curvature

We bring to your attention another set of special exercises, which is designed for various types of curvature. First you need to do exercises to warm up your muscles:

Place your feet shoulder-width apart and lift your toes, trying to keep your feet on the floor and tensing all the leg muscles as much as possible.
Standing in the same position, tuck your toes, also tensing your leg muscles.
Place your heels together and toes apart. With tension in your leg muscles, smoothly rise onto your toes, spreading and bringing your heels together.
In a sitting position, spread your legs and lift your toes towards you, leaving your heels on the floor. In this position, spread and bring your feet together until you feel slight pain.
In the same position, bring and spread your heels, resting your toes on the floor.
Lie down on the mat and spin your legs like a bicycle for a few minutes.

Once you have warmed up your muscles, you can begin special exercises that match your curvature type.

For O-shaped

Lie on your back and do the “scissors” first in the vertical plane and then in the horizontal. Gradually increase the exercise time.
With your back straight, squat smoothly with your knees together. Try to squat as deeply as possible.
Kneel down, put your hands on your waist, and spread your feet out to the sides. Squat slowly, trying to touch the floor with your buttocks.
Place your feet shoulder-width apart, then, without lifting your feet off the floor, bring your knees in and out.
March on inside feet

For X-shaped

Holding onto the table, try to pull your knee higher, helping yourself with your hands, and then turn it back, as ballerinas usually do. Do the exercise with each leg in turn.
Sit down on the mat in Turkish style, and pressing on your knees, try to bring them as close to the floor as possible.
In a sitting position, bring the soles of your feet together and also press on your knees, trying to touch them to the floor.
Lie on your stomach and in this position, bring your soles together, spreading your knees apart. Try to hold this pose for 3 minutes, and then strive to increase the exercise time to 15 minutes.
Do the previous exercise only in a supine position, trying to touch your knees to the floor.
March on the outside of your feet.

Exercises to correct the shape of your legs (video)

Healing yoga

Yoga is also very useful for improving the shape of your legs. Among the main goals of yoga are the spiritual, mental and physical improvement of a person. This ancient practice can do a lot, including the ability to correct the shape of the legs. You may not know, but there is a whole direction in yoga that deals with such issues - Iyengar Yoga. If you choose this method of correcting the shape of your legs, you must realize that the path will be long and difficult. Several haphazard studies will not bring any benefit - it takes months, or even years hard training with complete dedication, but the result will be impressive.

You need to practice under the guidance of an experienced instructor and repeat the exercises at home. Iyengar yoga strives to help a person achieve the correct body position - the one that nature intended for him. It is believed that under the influence of special asanas, not only muscles, but also bones can change their shape, since the body is constantly renewing tissues, including bones, at the cellular level. In the Iyengar asana complex there are special exercises, in which the legs are stretched with weights and belts, and the arch of the foot is set in an anatomically correct position, thereby improving posture and gait.

How to straighten your legs with Iyengar yoga (video)

What else can help?

There are several other options to correct this situation:

Regular barefoot jogging in the sand can have a good effect.
Massage. As for massage, it can be considered as an independent measure to eliminate curvature of the legs only in childhood- up to three years. For adult patients, massage is recommended to enhance the effect obtained from special exercises.

As we can see, it is quite possible to get rid of crooked legs - just start working on yourself. Moreover, every owner of less than ideal legs should remember that this problem will absolutely not overshadow the impression she makes if the girl’s personality is bright, interesting and meaningful. As they say, our problems are not outside - they are in our heads...

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