Leg Length Discrepancy

A leg length discrepancy is a condition where an individual legs are of unequal lengths. It is thought that most people in childhood and adulthood naturally have a small leg length discrepancy. These small leg length discrepancies do not normally cause any issues so are left unidentified and untreated. Larger leg length discrepancies can cause pain, balance issues and unusual walking styles.

What causes a leg length discrepancy?

Leg length discrepancies can be congenital (a birth defect) in nature. The common conditions that cause this are;

Leg length discrepancies can also be acquired through;

Leg leg discrepancies can also be secondary to an underlying medical condition, such as;

What are the symptoms of a leg length discrepancy?

A leg length discrepancy can cause one or all of the below symptoms;

The most common symptom is lower back pain, particularly in people over 40 years of age.

What is the most reliable way to measure a leg length discrepancy?

The most accurate way to be measured is with a weight bearing X-ray, however this exposes the body to high levels of radiation. Legs length discrepancies are most commonly measured in the clinical setting by using a combination of a tape measure and leveling blocks. This can be a very effective way to establish how short the leg is without exposing the body to unnecessary amounts of potentially harmful radiation.

How can Liverpool Orthotics help treat a leg length discrepancy?

A leg length discrepancy can be treated with an in shoe raise, outer shoe raise or a combination of both.

An in shoe raise is normally a flat insole made to be the same thickness as the shortening of the leg. The insole is manufactured from a firm but flexible material which fits inside commercial footwear. This form of treatment is limited by the thickness of the insole that can fit inside the shoe before the shoe becomes too tight and ill fitting. This limitation depends on the type of footwear selected. Deeper footwear or boots can accommodate a thicker insole.

An outer shoe raise is constructed by splicing the sole unit of an item of footwear in two. A piece of firm but flexible material is then sandwiched into the sole unit and the original sole unit is stuck back on. The colour of the material can be accurately matched to the sole material of the footwear. This method works well for individuals with larger leg length discrepancies.

A combination raise is constructed by having some of the raise inside the shoe and some built onto the outside. This works well for individuals with larger raises who are looking to make the raise as discreet as possible.

What types of footwear can Liverpool Orthotic raise?

Liverpool Orthotics can raise almost any types and style of footwear, including;

What is the process to having an assessment with Liverpool Orthotics to help with a leg length discrepancy?

Liverpool Orthotics have a team of experienced HCPC and BAPO registered orthotists who can accurately diagnose, measure and treat a leg length discrepancy. Our orthotist will be able to discuss your lifestyle, occupation and goals with you to determine which type of raise is most appropriate for you.

To arrange an appointment call Liverpool Orthotics now on 0330 088 3949, or email us at office@liverpool-orthotics.co.uk