Menu
Advanced Orthopedic Solutions at HeightIncreaseInfo
Leg Length Discrepancy (LLD) is a condition where one leg is shorter than the other. While minor differences are common and harmless, significant discrepancies can cause pain, posture imbalance, limping, spine issues, and long-term joint problems.
At HeightIncreaseInfo, we provide advanced evaluation and treatment options for leg length discrepancy in India, including both non-surgical and surgical solutions tailored to each patient’s condition.
What Is Leg Length Discrepancy?
Leg Length Discrepancy (LLD) occurs when:
- One femur (thigh bone) is shorter than the other
- One tibia (shin bone) is shorter
- Or both bones contribute to the difference
Structural (True) Leg Length Discrepancy
This occurs when the actual bone length differs. Causes may include:
- Congenital deformities
- Childhood fractures
- Growth plate injuries
- Bone infections
- Post-traumatic shortening
Functional (Apparent) Leg Length Discrepancy
The bones are equal, but pelvic tilt, muscle imbalance, or spinal alignment issues create an apparent difference.
Proper diagnosis is critical before deciding treatment.
Symptoms & Diagnosis of Leg Length Discrepancy
Symptoms of Leg Length Discrepancy
Patients with moderate to severe LLD may experience:
- Lower back pain
- Hip pain
- Knee pain
- Abnormal gait or limping
- Pelvic tilt
- Scoliosis (in long-standing cases)
- Early joint degeneration
If untreated, LLD can progressively affect posture and joint health.
Diagnosis of Leg Length Discrepancy
At HeightIncreaseInfo, evaluation typically includes:
- Clinical physical examination
- Standing X-rays
- Scanogram or full-length digital radiographs
- Gait analysis
Accurate measurement helps determine whether conservative or surgical treatment is required.
Leg Length Discrepancy Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the severity of discrepancy.
Non-Surgical Treatment (For Mild Cases)
For discrepancies under 1–2 cm, treatment may include:
- Shoe Lifts – Custom orthopedic inserts to balance limb length.
- Physical Therapy – Strengthening exercises to correct muscle imbalance.
- Posture Correction – Pelvic stabilization and spinal alignment exercises.
These options are suitable for mild discrepancies that do not cause major functional problems.
Surgical Treatment (For Moderate to Severe Cases)
For discrepancies greater than 2–3 cm, surgery may be recommended.
Limb Lengthening Surgery
The most advanced and definitive solution for structural leg length discrepancy.
- Controlled bone cut (osteotomy)
- Application of internal nail or external fixator
- Gradual lengthening (~1 mm per day)
- Natural bone regeneration (distraction osteogenesis)
Modern Techniques for Leg Length Discrepancy Correction
Internal Lengthening Nail (Precice Method)
- No external bulky frame
- Lower infection risk
- More comfortable recovery
- High precision control
LON (Lengthening Over Nail)
- Combines internal nail + external fixator
- Cost-effective option
- Reliable correction
External Fixator
- Traditional method
- Suitable for complex deformities
The technique is selected based on patient condition, budget, and medical assessment.
How Much Length Can Be Corrected?
Correction depends on:
- Bone health
- Age
- Soft tissue flexibility
- Overall medical condition
Typically, 3–6 cm correction per bone is achievable safely. Larger discrepancies may require staged procedures.
Recovery After Surgery
Recovery is gradual and requires:
- Regular physiotherapy
- Monitoring bone healing
- Follow-up X-rays
- Nutritional support
Total recovery time may range from 6 to 12 months depending on the amount of correction.
Strict adherence to rehabilitation protocol ensures optimal results.
Benefits of Surgical Leg Length Correction
Permanent correction
Improved posture
Reduced back and hip pain
Balanced walking pattern
Prevention of early arthritis
Improved confidence & symmetry
Cost of Leg Length Discrepancy Treatment in India
Cost Factors
Method used (Internal vs External), hospital stay duration, rehabilitation requirements, and complexity of deformity.
Affordable Excellence
India offers significantly affordable treatment compared to Western countries, without compromising surgical standards.
For exact cost estimation, personalized consultation is recommended.
Why Choose HeightIncreaseInfo?
Specialized focus on limb lengthening procedures
Experience in structural correction cases
Advanced surgical techniques
Comprehensive rehabilitation guidance
Support throughout the treatment journey
We aim to provide safe, medically guided, and result-oriented solutions for patients seeking leg length discrepancy correction in India.