Back pain and arthralgia before and after lengthening. 75 patients questioned after 6 (1-11) years

We performed 100 lengthenings of the lower extremities in 85 patients from 1980 to 1991, using three different surgical techniques. 6 (1-11) years after lengthening 75 of these patients with a preoperative leg length inequality of 6 (3-14) cm were clinically and radiographically assessed, and replied to a questionnaire on pre- and postoperative complaints of low back pain and pain from the joints of the lower extremities. Patients 15 years of age or younger at surgery had few complaints. Before lengthening, 18 patients suffered from severe low back pain compared with 6 at follow-up. Complaints from the joints of the lower extremities were less common and the effect of lengthening on these symptoms was minor. The ability to work, walk and to perform recreational activities was improved. 60 patients were satisfied with the result of the lengthening.