Parenthood is wonderful, but it also brings anxiety about every detail of your child's progress. It's a natural feeling for parents to do so, and many such concerns go unanalysed. However, all these apprehensions can easily turn into myths.

One of the most common worries is whether standing your baby up too early will lead to bow legs. The answer is no, and there is no link between standing and bow legs. Let's continue the analysis by discussing how to assist in developing your baby in the best way possible. 

What Are Bow Legs? 

Genu varum, or commonly known as bow legs, is when a baby's legs bend outward at the knees when their feet are held together. This is normal in babies, typically because of the position they were in the womb with the mother. As children develop, gain strength, and start walking, their legs straighten out over time, usually by the age of 2 TO 3. 

What Causes Bow Legs? 

Most babies are born with at least a little bit of bowing in their legs, and it gradually corrects itself. However, in very rare cases such as rickets (caused by a deficiency of vitamin D) or Blount's disease (a growth disorder of the shinbone), the baby may not be able to straighten their legs. 

In such cases, consulting with your paediatrician will help you decide whether this is a normal part of development or whether it needs attention and care. If you detect it, you can get bow legged baby treatment at the earliest. 

Does Early Standing Contribute to Bow Legs? 

That is a common myth; yet, there is no scientific proof that standing too early causes bow legs. Infants will always stand up on their legs when they are ready. 

Supportive bouncing or standing is beneficial for strengthening the aligned muscles and joints. Bones in babies are still soft and flexible, and it is best to shape them with natural movements rather than forcing them. 

When Should Babies Start Standing? 

Every baby is different, but here are a few timelines for standing seen in different babies: 

·       6 to 7 months: Babies start bearing some weight when held in a standing position. 

·       8 to 10 months: Many begin pulling themselves up to stand using furniture for support. 

·       9 to 12 months: Some babies can stand for short periods without any help or support. 

The key is to let your baby develop at their own pace. There’s no need to rush or force standing before they’re ready. 

When to Consult Your Baby's Paediatrician? 

The condition of bow legs is usually nothing to worry about, but in some cases, it's a good idea to get in touch with your baby's doctor, especially if: 

·       The bowing is severe or getting worse after the age of 2. 

·       Only one leg is bowed while the other is straight. 

·       Your baby has trouble walking, limps, or experiences pain. 

The Bottom Line 

That will not make your baby bowlegged by standing early. This is just one of the stages that babies go through, and the opposite can be true at some later stage through movement and growth. Instead of stressing yourself by standing your baby too soon, create a safe and stimulating environment in which the baby can explore movement naturally. Trust that your baby will tell you when they are ready and feel confident enough to stand or take their first steps.