[History of lengthening and equalization of lower extremities]

Chronological history of development of methods for elongation and equalization of lower extremities is presented. An elongation by distraction of an osteotomized shaft and shortening by resection of a shaft fragment is discussed. An epiphyseal stimulation and arrest and non-aggressive method of epiphyseal distraction are shown. The author's intention was to present the development of this field of orthopedics and to prevent researching ideas known in the past.