Genu valgum - do I need treatment?
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Hi, I would appreciate if any orthopedic surgeons or anyone knowledgeable in this matter could give me a second opinion:
History:
I'm a 31-year-old male of east-Mediterranean descent.
Completely healthy, no medications/allergies, never had alcohol.
Never been seriously ill. Do not smoke, eat fairly healthy foods but regular sweets.
Have always been slightly overweight (varying between 5-15 kg) since childhood.
Family history of joint disease such as: joint pain and deformity (hip joints) in relatives, direct family (siblings and parent) with multiple herniated discs (neck and lumbar).
I have chronic muscular neck pain from sitting, working with screens and working a profession that is very taxing on neck and shoulders.
Chief complaint:
I noticed growing up that I developed genu valgum/knock knees during teenage years, but never had problems and didn't think any of it. I estimate approximately 5 cm distance between ankles when I force my knees together. It is also very visible when standing both with and without pants. This bothers me slightly.
I also noticed that I subconsciously started to compensate for my misalignment by only standing on the outside of my soles and rotating my knees outward. I do this till this day, even when I sit. I never stand/sit with my feet and knees straight or on my entire soles as it is very uncomfortable.
In the last 5 or so years, I've been starting to feel pressure/strain/mild pain on the inside and backside of my knees, especially when standing extended periods of time or exerting my knees in certain angles.
I don't have major issues now, and I believe the discomfort I have can improve with exercise and getting into better shape.
I am however worried long-term of joint degeneration and possible need of joint replacement. These I want to avoid.
Based on the above history, could anyone estimate my long-term risk of joint degeneration of any kind and need of extensive treatment such as joint replacement?
Would anyone recommend corrective surgery now for prevention?
I am considering it, but want to weigh the risk of degeneration against possibly losing function from major surgery.
Thanks in advance.
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