Causes for a leg length difference

Causes for a leg length difference are different and can be assigned to the two different types. In the case of an anatomical leg length difference, a disorder occurred during growth. Either triggered by an injury to the pineal gland (injury to the growth plate) or bone fractures, hip malpositions such as coxa vara or hip dysplasia can also trigger a change in growth.

A functional leg length difference can be caused by muscle imbalances. Due to movement restrictions caused by contractures in the hip, one side is subjected to significantly more strain than the other, resulting in an apparent shortening. Scoliosis in the spinal column leads to a pelvic obliquity and thus a shortening of one side of the leg can also be the cause of a leg length difference. The functional leg length difference can be quickly irritated by stretching techniques and can be changed for a short time, which allows a functional and anatomical leg length difference to be distinguished.

Pelvic obliquity

A pelvic obliquity with a difference in leg length is often accompanying. Since the legs do not end on one level, the pelvis shifts accordingly. Due to a muscular imbalance, the pelvis is usually fixed in a certain position.

The problems become visible through the exact diagnosis. The pelvis is then mobilized according to the position. By means of the lever of the leg, which can be used to exert a pull on the pelvis, an attempt is made to center the hip and get the pelvis in one plane.

Shortly after the treatment, the pelvic obliquity is usually corrected but does not last long, because the muscles surrounding the pelvis hold it in place. In case of hypertonus (increased muscle tension) of the lower back extensor, the quadratus lumborum (square lumbar muscle), the ischiocrual muscles (posterior thigh muscles) or the front thigh, this should be reduced by soft tissue techniques. This area of the musculature should also be stretched.

The ischiocruale (rear thigh muscles) should be stretched so that the pelvis is not permanently pulled down backwards, which would change the statics of the body. This musculature can either be stretched in a supine position by lifting the stretched leg, walking with the hands towards the floor when standing, or by putting the leg down on an elevation and walking to the foot with the hand. The front thigh muscle must also be taken into account in the case of a pelvic obliquity.

If this is not stretchy, it pulls the pelvis forward and down. This can be stretched by pulling the heel towards the buttocks. These articles may also be of interest to you:

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