Ninety percent of the population has some leg-length discrepancy. At first glance, a slightly shorter leg is no big deal. After all, nobody measures the length of their legs — that is, until the pain in their knee, hip, or lower back brings them to a doctor. Doctors find that about 75 percent of low back pain patients have a different leg length and 84 percent of hip replacement patients have osteoarthritis in the longer limb. Show
Leg length discrepancy can be functional or anatomical. If you have anatomical leg length discrepancy, you should discuss it with an orthopedic doctor. Functional leg length difference is caused by muscle imbalances. This is associated with crooked posture and pelvic obliquity while sitting, standing, walking, or playing sports. You can address these muscle imbalances with the appropriate exercises. Since the Middle Ages, leg length discrepancy has been treated with a shoe lift. But there is no way to fix core muscle imbalance with a shoe lift alone. You also need to perform regular corrective exercises. Having one leg longer than the other is relatively common. The condition is known as leg length discrepancy. Some research indicates that 40–70% of people have some form of leg length discrepancy (LLD). The differences in leg length can range from a fraction of an inch to several inches. The greater the difference, the more likely it is that the person will experience issues with gait, posture, and pain. In this article, we discuss the causes and symptoms of LLD. We also provide information on the diagnosis of LLD and the treatment options available. There are two types of LLD: functional and structural. These types have different causes. Functional LLDIn functional LLD, the leg bones are equal in length. However, one leg appears longer than the other due to an issue with one of the following body parts: In children, functional LLD can occur when a child is born with an issue that alters their hip alignment. In adults, functional LLD can result from chronic pain or arthritis and associated problems in the spine, hip, or knee. Neuromuscular conditions are another potential cause of functional LLD, as these conditions can affect a person’s alignment and posture. In some cases, exercise can contribute to functional LLD. If an athlete trains in a way that causes muscle imbalances or weaknesses, they may temporarily experience functional LLD. Structural discrepancyStructural LLD occurs when either the thigh bone (femur) or the shin bone (tibia) is shorter in one leg than in the other. The condition typically presents at birth, but it can also happen as a child grows. Some potential causes of structural LLD include:
The main symptom of LLD is having one leg longer than the other. If the discrepancy is very small, there may not be any other symptoms. However, a 2017 study notes that a discrepancy as small as 2 centimeters (cm) can cause the pelvis to compensate for imbalances in posture. Moderate-to-severe cases of LLD can cause additional symptoms, including:
The study authors also note that LLD can affect a person’s overall quality of life. People who suspect that they have one leg longer than the other should see a doctor for a diagnosis. While waiting for an appointment, a person could try the following home test to see whether there is a possibility of LLD. Home testTo perform a home test, the person should:
Ankles that are not aligned could indicate LLD. It will be necessary to see a doctor to confirm LLD and to determine whether it is a functional or structural issue. Medical diagnosisA doctor may use several methods to diagnose LLD. These include:
The type of LLD will determine the treatment that a person receives. Treating functional LLDThe treatment for functional LLD typically involves physical therapy, massage, and specific exercises to correct areas of imbalance and weakness. It is also important to correct poor posture. The exact type and number of interventions that a person needs will depend on the underlying cause and severity of the LLD. Exercising and functional LLDExercises may help correct some functional LLDs. However, it is important that people use the correct stretching and strengthening techniques. They should also take care to exercise the side of the body that will help correct the LLD. To avoid causing further issues, it may be sensible to seek the help of a physical therapist. The therapist can identify areas of imbalance and recommend appropriate exercises. Treating structural LLDCorrecting structural LLD is less straightforward. Treatment typically depends on the difference in length between the legs. Some potential treatment options include: A shoe liftA person who has mild LLD of less than 1 inch may benefit from wearing a shoe lift inside the shoe on the shorter leg. A shoe lift can alleviate back pain and improve a person’s gait. SurgerySurgery may be necessary to treat more significant LLDs. Several surgical options are available, each of which aims to do one of the following:
Following surgery, people will require regular follow-up visits to the doctor’s office. They will also need extensive rehabilitation that includes exercise and physical therapy. Having one leg longer than the other is a relatively common occurrence. A leg length discrepancy may be functional or structural in nature. Minor discrepancies often cause no symptoms or problems. However, moderate-to-severe asymmetry may cause issues with walking and posture, and it can contribute to hip and back pain. People should see a doctor if they suspect that they or their child has LLD. A doctor can diagnose the condition and recommend appropriate treatments.
Leg length discrepancy can be one of two types. One type is structural, where there is an actual, physical difference between the same bones in each limb. For example, a femur or other specific bone may actually be shorter in one leg than in the other. The other kind of leg length discrepancy is called a functional discrepancy. In a functional discrepancy, bones in the leg are of equal length, but some other factor creates a discrepancy. This is often related to muscle tightness which creates a problem in symmetry. Symptoms of Leg Length DiscrepancyA slight difference in leg length may not lead to symptoms; however, significant discrepancies can affect the quality of life, make some activities difficult, and even harm other bone structures. Here are some symptoms people may experience with leg length discrepancy:
Exercises for Leg Length Discrepancy SymptomsTo ease symptoms you can try out some exercises that can help build strength and improve flexibility. You should talk to your doctor when starting a new exercise program and begin slowly, building in intensity in order to avoid injury. Sidekicks
This exercise may take some practice, so take it slow and don’t strain yourself. Work up to multiple sets a day and slightly raise the height of your kicks as you become more comfortable with the exercise. Hamstring StretchTry out hamstring stretches to lengthen the muscles in your upper leg. Perform this stretch near a couch or at the corner of a wall.
Try to do at least two sets a day of this exercise. The tension should be a comfortable stretch, not painful. Lower the intensity if you feel discomfort. Hip Adductor Stretch
Alternatively, you could do a hip adductor stretch in the seated position:
Hip Flexor StretchFor a simple exercise for your hamstrings, lower back, and upper thigh, try a knee to chest stretch.
Surgical Treatment for Leg Length DiscrepancyExercises for leg length discrepancy can sometimes help with pain and mobility issues, but exercises will never be able to compensate or change a limb discrepancy. Especially if your leg length discrepancy is significant (more than 1.5 centimeters) or causing stress fractures, pain, or other issues, exercises may not make a significant quality of life difference, and limb lengthening surgery may be recommended. Contact a Trusted Expert for HelpAt Height Lengthening Institute, our specialists are able to provide a proper diagnosis and treatment for leg length discrepancy and other complex orthopedic conditions. Our experts, led by Dr. Shahab Mahboubian, are highly skilled and have received the best training from renowned orthopedic institutions. today for a consultation with one of our specialists. Topics: Limb Discrepancy / Limb Lengthening |