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Functional and structural limb length discrepancies: evaluation and treatment
1Chicago Osteopathic Medical Center, Illinois.
Clinics in Podiatric Medicine and Surgery
|July 1, 1988
Summary
Diagnosing leg length inequality is crucial for patients with back or lower extremity pain. A systematic exam helps differentiate structural from functional discrepancies, guiding appropriate treatment like heel lifts or orthotics.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Physical Medicine
- Biomechanics
Background:
- Lower extremity and back pain can indicate leg length inequality.
- Accurate diagnosis is often overlooked.
- Systematic physical examination improves diagnostic confidence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To emphasize the importance of diagnosing leg length inequality.
- To outline methods for differentiating functional and structural discrepancies.
- To guide treatment based on the type of limb asymmetry.
Main Methods:
- Systematic physical examination for limb asymmetry.
- Indirect measurement for structural discrepancies.
- Flexion and pronation tests for functional asymmetries.
Main Results:
- Diagnosis of limb length asymmetry is facilitated by a structured examination.
- Structural asymmetries are treated with heel lifts.
- Functional asymmetries are managed with orthotics.
Conclusions:
- High index of suspicion is needed for leg length inequality.
- Classification into functional or structural discrepancy dictates treatment.
- Effective management relies on accurate diagnosis and tailored interventions.