Unequal Leg Length - What Should We Know About It?

The effect of the disease differs from patient to patient and it totally depends upon the size of the difference and cause of the inequality. If the Length inequality is moderate, a simple heel lift can be placed within the shoe, or an external build up for the shoe can also be used. In severe cases, a surgery can be done to make the leg longer or shorter. However, it is a good idea to consult a doctor before opting for any treatment.

Plenty of imaging techniques are used to measure unequal leg length. One of these is radiography, the gold standard for measuring LLD. There are two ways under radiography to measure LLD: Direct clinical method and indirect clinical method. In direct clinical method, tapes and scales are used to measure the difference. In indirect clinical method, pelvic levelling devices are used to determine the difference.

Yes, leading a normal life with leg length discrepancy is possible. If the patient is given a proper treatment according to his/her needs, it can be achieved. Since, this disease is common in infants and children, immediate attention can be given. According to the child s limb difference and age, a treatment plan can be made early on. And, regular follow check-up visits to the doctor will help the patient in the long run.

Unequal leg length can bring some major issues in body posture, such as tilting shoulder. Since one leg is shorter than the other, patient will tend to lean on one side, which will hyperextend one knee and flexes another chronically. Apart from this, most common symptoms seen in a patient with unequal leg length are walking problems like limping or toe walking, which end up harming hips and back.