Problems of Leg Length Equalization

Abstract

Injury or disease of the epiphysis, disuse or muscle paralysis, spastic hemiplegia, and paralysis from acute anterior poliomyelitis are among the factors which can cause leg length discrepancy.

Treatment depends chiefly on the ultimate difference in leg lengths. Differences of ½ in. or less may be treated with shoe lifts. Surgical procedures are usually the method of choice in differences of ¾ in. or more. Epiphysiodesis is the most common procedure for correcting leg length inequality.