What Is Leg Length Discrepancy (LLD)?
Leg Length Discrepancy (LLD) refers to a difference in the lengths of the legs, which can be caused by congenital conditions, injuries, or post-surgical complications. While minor discrepancies are common and may not cause noticeable issues, significant differences can lead to discomfort, mobility challenges, and other health complications.
When Does LLD Become an Issue?
Mild LLD often goes unnoticed, as the body compensates for the difference. However, when the discrepancy is larger, it can result in:
- Pain in the lower back, hips, knees, or feet.
- Muscle tightness or poor balance.
- Uneven gait or posture.
- Difficulty standing or walking for prolonged periods.
What Causes LLD?
LLD can be caused by a range of factors:
- Congenital Causes: Present at birth and worsens as the child grows.
- Developmental Causes: Growth plate injuries or bone disorders affecting limb growth.
- Post-Traumatic Causes: Improper healing after fractures.
- Post-Surgical Causes: Outcomes of procedures like joint replacements.
- Neuromuscular Conditions: Disorders like cerebral palsy or polio.
- Structural Misalignments: Issues such as scoliosis or flat feet.
How Can a Podiatrist Help?
A podiatrist will assess whether LLD is structural or functional and create a personalised treatment plan. This may include:
- Custom shoe lifts or insoles.
- Prescribed exercises to address muscle tightness or weakness.
- Manual therapy to relieve discomfort and improve alignment.
- Collaboration with physiotherapists for a holistic approach to managing symptoms.
Treatment Options
- Non-Surgical Treatments:
- Shoe lifts and footwear modifications.
- Physiotherapy for muscle balance and joint stability.
- Adaptive devices to support daily activities.
- Surgical Treatments:
- Epiphysiodesis: Slows growth in the longer leg.
- Limb Shortening: Removes bone from the longer leg to equalise length.
- Limb Lengthening: Encourages bone growth in the shorter leg using external or internal devices.
Why Choose Physio & Sole Clinic?
At Physio & Sole Clinic, we combine advanced diagnostic tools with personalised care to address leg length discrepancies effectively. Our experienced podiatrists work closely with physiotherapists to provide tailored treatment plans that restore alignment, reduce pain, and improve overall mobility. With a focus on early detection and holistic care, we are committed to helping you achieve a pain-free lifestyle.
To schedule an appointment, book here or WhatsApp us here
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, untreated LLD can lead to chronic pain, scoliosis, joint problems, and reduced mobility over time.
Risks include infection, delayed healing, or complications requiring additional procedures.
While some cases can be resolved with non-surgical treatments, severe discrepancies may require surgical intervention for optimal results.
Podiatry Charges
| Podiatry Consultation | $80 – $120 |
| Podiatry Assessment | $180 |
| Semi-Customised Insoles | $450 |
| Follow-Up Podiatry Consultation | $50 |
All prices are before GST.
Please note that charges may vary depending on the treatment plan prescribed by your Podiatrist. Our charges are transparent and rest assured there are no hidden charges. A podiatry session will last for 30-45 minutes. There are no surcharges if your session exceeds 45 minutes.
For more information on podiatric charges and insurance inquiries, visit us here or get in touch with us here.
