What is leg axis deformity?

Leg axis deformity — disruption of normal leg alignment, in which load is distributed unevenly on the knee joint. Instead of passing through the joint center, the mechanical axis shifts, creating overload in one knee compartment.

This is the main factor in knee osteoarthritis progression. In varus deformity, the medial (inner) compartment is overloaded by 60-70%; in valgus — the lateral (outer).

Types of deformity:

  • Varus (bowlegs) — knees diverge, main load on medial (inner) compartment. Most common type. Leads to medial knee osteoarthritis
  • Valgus (knock-knees) — knees converge, overload of lateral (outer) compartment. Leads to lateral knee osteoarthritis

Causes:

  • Osteoarthritis — cartilage destruction in one compartment → joint space narrowing → deformity
  • Trauma — malunited fractures
  • Genetics — congenital anatomical features
  • Obesity — excess load accelerates deformity
  • Meniscectomy — loss of shock absorption accelerates deformity

Facts about leg axis deformity

  • ICD-10: M21.1 (varus), M21.0 (valgus)
  • Varus: most common (75% of deformities)
  • Overload: up to 60-70% load on one compartment
  • Link to osteoarthritis: direct correlation
  • Treatment: osteotomy or joint replacement

How regenerative treatment helps with deformity

Regenerative treatment does not correct bony deformity (osteotomy required for that), but regenerates damaged cartilage in the overload zone, slowing osteoarthritis progression and delaying surgery for years.

01

Deformity assessment

Weight-bearing X-ray and MRI determine deformity degree, cartilage condition in overloaded compartment, associated meniscus damage. Mechanical leg axis is evaluated.

02

Obtaining concentrates

From blood — CGF with chondrogenic and anti-inflammatory factors. From adipose tissue — MFAT with stem cells for cartilage and meniscus regeneration.

03

Targeted Injection

Under Ultrasound guidance navigation, concentrates are injected precisely into the overloaded compartment — into zones of maximum cartilage damage. The damaged meniscus is treated simultaneously.

04

Regeneration in the Overloaded Zone

Stem cells restore cartilage coverage in the overloaded compartment and reduce inflammation. Result — restoration of joint space, pain reduction, and postponement of the need for osteotomy or joint replacement.

Osteotomy vs regenerative treatment

Criterion Corrective Osteotomy Regenerative treatment
Principle Bone fracture + axis correction Cartilage regeneration in overloaded zone
Axis Correction ✅ Yes — mechanical correction ❌ No — but cartilage restoration
Anesthesia General / spinal Without anesthesia
Rehabilitation 3-6 months, crutches 6-8 weeks Several days
Metal Implants Plate + screws (removal after 12-18 months) None
Combination Excellent complement to osteotomy or orthotics

Regenerative method Advantages

A broad range of indications

Regenerative methods are used for many orthopaedic and spinal conditions. Some cases still call for surgery.

No anesthesia or incisions

Outpatient treatment via 0.3-1.5 mm puncture. No general anesthesia or hospitalization.

No age restrictions

Regeneration at any age. Safe for chronic conditions and anesthesia intolerance.

Rapid improvement

Concentrates have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. Relief within days.

Multiple zones at once

Simultaneous treatment of multiple discs or joints in one procedure.

Home the same day

No crutches, braces or rehabilitation needed. MRI follow-up at 8-16 weeks.

Regenerative treatment Technology

Navigation system for minimally invasive access

Navigation system

Intraoperative robotic navigation system. Provides precise access to deep structures with 1 mm and 1 degree accuracy.

Ultrasound guidance during the procedure

Ultrasound guidance

Device for intervention under sonographic control. Eliminates open surgeries with real-time visual monitoring.

Frequently Asked Questions About Leg Axis Deformity Treatment

Can regenerative treatment straighten legs?
Regenerative treatment does not correct bone deformity — osteotomy is required for that. However, regenerative methods solves the main problem — it regenerates destroyed cartilage in the overloaded knee compartment. This slows osteoarthritis progression for years and can postpone or eliminate the need for osteotomy or joint replacement.
Can regenerative treatment be combined with orthopedic insoles?
Yes, this is the optimal approach. Orthopedic insoles (lateral or medial wedge) partially redistribute load. Regenerative treatment restores already damaged cartilage. The combination of load correction and regeneration provides the best long-term result.
Can regenerative treatment be used after osteotomy?
Yes. regenerative treatment is an excellent complement to osteotomy. After axis correction, load is equalized, and regenerative treatment restores cartilage damaged over years of overloading. The combination provides better long-term results than either method alone.
How many years will regenerative treatment postpone joint replacement?
It depends on the degree of deformity and stage of osteoarthritis. With moderate deformity and Stage II-III osteoarthritis, regenerative methods can postpone joint replacement for 5-10+ years through Effect on cartilage tissue. Each case is evaluated individually — send your imaging for a free consultation.

Clinic and method matching — free of charge

Describe your case and attach your MRI report. We will identify clinics that use the relevant methods and forward your request to them. No obligation; we reply within two working days.

Send a request