Can leg length discrepancy be corrected as an adult?
Most of these cases occur in adults, and most can be corrected with only one lengthening, and associated deformity can be treated at the same time. Many of these situations can be treated by the implantable lengthening nail method, though for many cases, the external fixator method is preferred.
When Should leg length discrepancy be corrected?
Conservative treatment There is good consensus that leg length discrepancy should be corrected to 1 cm and 2 cm residual inequality in growing children and after skeletal maturity, respectively (2, 22).
How do you fix leg length discrepancy without surgery?
- A shoe lift inside the shoe of your child's shorter leg can level out the difference in leg lengths.
- Physical therapy includes special stretches and exercises that can help reduce pain and increase overall function.
How do you compensate for leg length discrepancy?
Young children may compensate for a lower limb length discrepancy by flexing their knee or walking on their toes. Measuring the discrepancy. In most cases, the doctor will measure the discrepancy when your child is standing barefoot.
What kind of doctor treats leg length discrepancy?
The first step in diagnosing a limb-length discrepancy is a complete medical history and physical examination by an orthopedic surgeon. During the exam, the doctor will measure your child's limbs to calculate how different they are in length.
Can you correct leg length discrepancy?
If a child has stopped growing, orthopedists can sometimes correct a leg length discrepancy by shortening the longer leg. This is done by removing a piece of bone from the longer leg. Limb lengthening surgery also can be done.