Is not common to find perfect symmetrical leg length, we all have a certain degree of discrepancies between the right and left leg and in most cases, it does not create any issues. Up to 6 mm differences our body is able to adapt well without causing any biomechanical consequences to the body, above 6 mm and in certain individuals, this level of discrepancy can produce significant impact in the body creating several widespread patterns of dysfunctions.

Leg-lengh-deficiency

There are 2 types of short leg deficiencies: Functional or Anatomical.

Anatomical means there is a structural anatomical shortening of one of the legs

Functional means there is a biomechanical imbalance, particularly in the pelvic, causing one leg to appear longer then the other.

In my clinical experience, most individuals have a combination of anatomical and functional leg length deformity.

Assessment

The gold standard test to efficiently diagnose this condition is the anterior – posterior (AP) Pelvic X-ray analyses. This exam aids to precisely measure the level of leg discrepancy and to differentiate between the anatomical and functional types.

Clinical examination on its own is not sufficient to properly diagnose this condition

Treatment Protocol

For anatomical leg length discrepancy, heel lift is advisable.

For functional leg length discrepancies, Specific Pelvic/Hip adjustment is enough to correct this deformity