Leg Length Discrepancy

The diagnosis of leg length deficiency means that your legs are different lengths. Many people have minor unnoticeable leg length differences; however, more significant imbalances, like yours, can trigger or aggravate conditions throughout your legs and spine, including knee, hip, or back pain. In severe cases, the deficit may cause a limp. Longstanding imbalances can lead to painful compensations and premature arthritis.

There are two reasons why this happens. The first reason could be that one of your leg bones is structurally shorter. The second and more common cause of a leg length deficit is functional problems like muscle contractures and joint restrictions in your spine or pelvis.

The treatment for a leg length deficiency depends on how much of the imbalance is functional vs. structural. Functional problems often improve following manipulation, stretching, and exercise. However, some of the more challenging functional deficits, and most structural deficiencies, will require a supplemental heel lift in your shoe to restore balance. Our office will help you determine the most appropriate option as your care proceeds.