Femoral version refers to the rotation or twist of the entire femur bone. The top of the femur bone is the “ball” in the “ball and socket” joint of the hip. The bottom of the femur bone is the knee joint.

In reference to the knee, the ball points slightly forward for most adults.

Femoral anteversion is when the ball of the hip socket joint is pointing forward too much, which can cause hip instability, and pain. Sometimes femoral anteversion may cause “pigeon toes” or “in-toeing”

Normal versus Excessive Anteversion

• Normal adult femoral anteversion: ~10–20 degrees.

• Excessive anteversion: Typically >25–30 degrees.

• Results from persistent internal femoral rotation that does not remodel fully during adolescence.