Leg Length Discrepancy

Solution Products

• Customised Orthotic footwear
• Braces
• Heel Raise

Overview

Leg Length Discrepancy occurs when one or more bones (the Femur or thigh bone, the Tibia or shin bone, and/or the joint spacing within the knee) are unequal in total length when measured in comparison to the same structures on the opposite side. It is common for people to have one leg longer than the other. In fact, it is more typical to be asymmetrical than it is to be symmetrical. The greater the discrepancy, the more a person must compensate his or her normal posture and gait (walking pattern) in day to day life. This can lead to a variety of symptoms, such as functional scoliosis, hip, knee and ankle problems. LLD can be of two types:

• Anatomical Leg Length Discrepancy or leg length inequality, is a result of the bones (Femur and Tibia) not growing symmetrically.
• Functional Leg Length Discrepancy is caused by muscular tightness, weakness and imbalance.

Symptoms

• One leg that is shorter than the other (this is not always obvious)
• More effort while walking
• Aches & pain in the lower limb and back on long hours of standing or walking
• Improper/altered gait & posture, such as a tilting shoulder
• Mild to moderate limp while walking or toe-walking
• Lower Limb Muscle imbalance
• Pain in the back, hip, knee or ankle

Causes

• Congenital disorder – The way your bones grew and formed from the time you were born and in most cases it is inherited from one or both parents.
• Acquired – A particular trauma may have stunted the growth on the injured side affecting the ability of that part to grow on the same pace as the unaffected leg.
• Polio and cerebral palsy
• An accident or a surgery to various bony structures or joints
• Infection of the joints

Treatment

• Closed shoes are recommended with customised Orthotics and heel raise to correct the discrepancy and alignment
• Braces or supports for additional support to the joint structures
• Selective stretches & strengthening exercises