Genu Recurvatum

Backward bending of the knee beyond its normal straight position during standing or stance phase of gait. Genu recurvatum is often caused by hamstring weakness, quadriceps spasticity, or proprioceptive deficits following stroke, cerebral palsy, or spinal cord injury. Repeated hyperextension stresses the posterior knee capsule and ligaments, increases joint instability, and raises the risk of long-term joint damage. Orthoses such as KAFOs and knee braces are used to block hyperextension and restore safer gait.