Overview
Genu recurvatum, characterized by excessive dorsiflexion of the knee beyond anatomical limits, is associated with biomechanical imbalances affecting lower extremity muscles. This condition can increase the risk of knee injuries and is influenced by muscle strength ratios and demographic factors 1.Diagnosis
Key Diagnostic Criteria: Increased genu recurvatum angle 1.
Recommended Tests: Measurement of genu recurvatum angle using motion sensors, assessment of hip external rotator and internal rotator strength, and knee extensor and flexor strength 1.
Grading: Not explicitly detailed in the provided abstracts; typically assessed qualitatively or quantitatively based on angle measurement 1.Management
First-Line Treatments: Strengthening exercises targeting hip external rotators and knee flexors, particularly focusing on improving strength ratios 1.
Adjunctive Treatments: Physical therapy interventions aimed at correcting muscle imbalances and posture correction 1.Special Populations
Pediatrics: Not addressed in the provided abstracts 1.
Elderly: Not addressed in the provided abstracts 1.
Comorbidities: No specific mention of comorbidities affecting genu recurvatum management 1.Key Recommendations
Assess hip external rotator to internal rotator strength ratio and knee extensor to flexor strength ratio in patients presenting with genu recurvatum to guide rehabilitation strategies (Evidence: Moderate 1).
Implement targeted strengthening programs focusing on hip external rotators and knee flexors to mitigate genu recurvatum risk (Evidence: Moderate 1).
Consider age as a factor in evaluating genu recurvatum severity, as younger individuals may exhibit different biomechanical predispositions (Evidence: Moderate 1).References
1 Ahn SH, Kwon OY, Hwang UJ, Jung SH, Kim HA, Kim JH. The association between genu recurvatum angle and the strength of the hip and knee muscles in standing workers. Work (Reading, Mass.) 2020. link