HARARE, Apr. 20 (NewsDay Live) — CURE Children’s Hospital of Zimbabwe has launched a free surgical programme to treat windswept deformity, a disabling condition in which one leg develops a bowed knee while the other forms a knock knee.
The hospital said the initiative targets children who often go untreated due to financial constraints, offering both surgery and follow-up care at no cost.
“Windswept deformity is a condition where one leg develops a bowed knee while the other develops a knock knee, meaning one knee tilts inward while the other bends outward,” the hospital said.
The condition gives the legs a distinctive “windswept” appearance and typically arises when growth plates around the knee develop unevenly.
“This occurs when the growth plate near one knee slows or stops producing new bone, while the other continues to grow normally,” the hospital said in a statement.
Medical experts warn the deformity can worsen if left untreated, leading to impaired mobility, chronic pain and, in severe cases, long-term disability. Early intervention is critical, particularly while bones are still developing.
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The hospital identified Rickets as the leading cause, linking it to deficiencies in calcium, vitamin D or phosphate.
“There are several possible causes of windswept deformity, but the most common is rickets, where bones fail to form properly due to nutritional deficiencies,” the statement said.
Parents and guardians have been urged to take advantage of the programme.
“At CURE Zimbabwe, this condition can be treated free of charge for children and their caregivers. If you know a child who could benefit, please get in touch with us,” the hospital said.
Appointments can be scheduled via SMS or WhatsApp on +263 772 696 481, or by calling +263 867 719 2320.
CURE Zimbabwe is a leading provider of paediatric orthopaedic care, having performed more than 4,000 surgical procedures and trained over 2,000 medical professionals.