Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 25, 2026
Evaluating Postural Control and Lower-extremity Muscle Activation in Individuals with Chronic Ankle Instability
Published on: September 18, 2020
Does structural leg-length discrepancy affect postural control? Preliminary study
Małgorzata Eliks1, Wioleta Ostiak-Tomaszewska2, Przemysław Lisiński3
1Department of Health Prophylaxis, Laboratory of Medical Electrodiagnostics, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Heliodor Swiecicki Clinical Hospital, 49 Przybyszewskiego St., 60-101, Poznań, Poland. malgorzata.eliks@gmail.com.
Structural leg-length discrepancy (LLD) significantly increases weight distribution asymmetry. While posturography showed no group differences, LLD correlates with poorer postural control, especially with eyes closed.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Human Posture
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Leg-length inequality (LLD) alters spinal and pelvic alignment.
- Previous research on LLD's impact on postural control is inconclusive.
- This study investigates the effect of structural LLD on posture control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the influence of structural leg-length discrepancy on postural control.
- To analyze weight distribution and posturography in individuals with LLD.
- To correlate leg-length discrepancy with postural sway.
Main Methods:
- 38 participants (19 with LLD, 19 healthy) were studied.
- Measurements included lower limb length, weight distribution, and static posturography.
- Statistical analysis used Kruskal-Wallis and Spearman tests (p < 0.05).
Main Results:
- Significant weight distribution asymmetry was found in the LLD group (p=0.0005).
- No significant differences in overall posturography between groups.
- A positive correlation was observed between LLD magnitude and center of pressure (COP) sway velocity, particularly with eyes closed.
Conclusions:
- LLD leads to increased weight distribution asymmetry.
- Compensatory mechanisms and neuromuscular adaptations may explain the lack of significant posturographic differences.
- Visual input is crucial for postural control, and LLD may proportionally impair it.
