Unequal Leg Length

Unequal leg length, most commonly known as leg length discrepancy, is a common disorder in which both legs differ in length. The difference can be a centimetre to six centimetres or more. Greater discrepancy means your child’s way of walking and normal posture will be affected more. This can lead to other disorders such as functional scoliosis (abnormal lateral curvature of the spine), and hip, knee and ankle problems. There are various causes of unequal leg lengths which include:

• Bone fracture which heals in a shortened position
  

• Bone infection in children while they are growing can cause unequal leg lengths
  

• Diseases of the bone that injures the growth plate; the region where growth in legs occur
  

• Bone tumours and treatments designed to remove them 

Some causes are unknown, especially if the discrepancy is present at birth. The unequal leg lengths may not be noticeable when a child is born but they become more obvious as they grow.​

When to seek expert advise

​​See one of our internationally trained doctors at the Children's Hospital Service Line at The Aga Khan University Hospital the only internationally accredited hospital in Pakistan, if you notice one of the above mentioned symptoms in your child. A referral to a Paediatric Orthopaedic Surgeon may be needed.

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