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Gait asymmetry in patients with limb length discrepancy
J R Perttunen1, E Anttila, J Södergård
1Neuromuscular Research Center, Department of Biology of Physical Activity, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland. jarmop@sport.jyu.fi
Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports
|January 16, 2004
Summary
Limb length discrepancy causes asymmetrical walking, with the long limb bearing more load and shifting foot pressure forward. The short limb shows reduced stance duration and earlier push-off to compensate.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Orthopedics
- Human Movement Science
Background:
- Limb length discrepancy (LLD) is a common orthopedic condition.
- LLD can lead to altered gait patterns and compensatory mechanisms.
- Understanding these adaptations is crucial for managing LLD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate foot loading patterns and neuromuscular function in patients with LLD.
- To compare gait parameters between the short and long limbs during walking.
- To determine how LLD affects ground reaction forces, plantar pressures, and muscle activity.
Main Methods:
- 25 patients with LLD participated in the study.
- Plantar pressures and 2D ground reaction forces were measured.
- Electromyographic (EMG) activities were recorded at two walking speeds.
- Bilateral comparisons were made between limbs.
Main Results:
- Moderate LLD resulted in asymmetrical gait.
- The short limb had a reduced stance phase duration and earlier push-off.
- The long limb exhibited greater vertical ground reaction forces and higher peak plantar pressures, particularly under the big toe.
- Maximum isometric torque was significantly greater in the long limb.
Conclusions:
- LLD leads to altered foot loading patterns, with increased load on the long limb.
- Gait compensation involves a shift in foot loading towards the forefoot in the long limb.
- Neuromuscular function and biomechanical adaptations occur to manage LLD during walking.