Leg Length Discrepancy in Children: Causes and Treatments

Have you noticed your child walking with a limp or uneven step? Does one leg seem shorter than the other? These could be signs of leg length discrepancy (LLD)—a condition where one leg is slightly or significantly shorter than the other.

This condition can affect a child’s balance, walking pattern, and even their posture if not managed early. In this blog, we’ll explore what causes uneven leg length in children, how it’s diagnosed, and the most effective treatment options for leg length discrepancy in kids. We’ll also share when surgery might be needed and how to support your child through it.

What Is Leg Length Discrepancy in Children?

Leg length discrepancy happens when there is a noticeable difference in the lengths of a child’s legs. It may be small (a few millimeters) or more significant (several centimeters).

There are two types:

• Structural discrepancy – A true difference in bone length.
• Functional discrepancy – Legs may be the same length, but something like a hip or spine issue makes them appear uneven.

Some kids might not have any pain, while others may struggle with walking, balance, or discomfort in the lower back and knees.

What Causes Uneven Leg Length in Children?

There are several reasons why one leg may grow longer or shorter than the other:

• Congenital issues – A child may be born with a shorter leg due to how the bones developed in the womb.
• Injuries – Damage to the growth plate from a fracture can slow down or stop growth in one leg.
• Bone infections – Certain infections during childhood can affect bone growth.
• Neurological conditions – Disorders like cerebral palsy can impact muscle tone and posture, causing the legs to appear different in length.
• Tumors or cysts – Rarely, these can affect bone growth.
• Previous surgeries – Some operations may influence the way a leg grows.

If you’re wondering about the common causes of leg length discrepancy in kids, it’s important to understand that most cases develop over time and can be noticed gradually.

Signs and Symptoms to Look Out For

Here are some common signs that may suggest your child has a leg length difference:

• Limping or favoring one leg
• One shoe wearing out faster than the other
• Complaints of hip, knee, or back pain
• Trouble running or keeping up with other kids
• Tilting or leaning to one side while standing or walking

Parents often ask how to identify leg length discrepancy in a child—if you notice even slight differences, it’s a good idea to talk to a pediatric orthopedic specialist.

How Is Leg Length Discrepancy Diagnosed in Children?

Diagnosing LLD involves both a physical check-up and imaging tests. Here’s what usually happens:

• Physical exam – A doctor will look at how your child walks, stands, and moves.
• Measuring tools – Leg lengths are measured to find out the difference.
• X-rays or EOS scans – These give detailed images of the bones and help measure any discrepancy more accurately.
• Gait analysis – Helps doctors see how the legs and feet move during walking.

A pediatric diagnosis of leg length discrepancy is usually clear once the imaging is done.

Treatment Options for Leg Length Discrepancy in Children

Not all cases need treatment right away. The best option depends on your child’s age, the amount of difference, and how it affects their daily life.

Observation
If the difference is small (less than 2 cm), doctors may simply monitor it over time to see how it changes as your child grows.

Shoe Lifts or Orthotics
These are used to balance the leg length difference and help your child walk more evenly.

Surgical Treatments

If the difference is larger or causing problems, surgery may be recommended:

• Epiphysiodesis – A procedure that slows growth in the longer leg, allowing the shorter leg to catch up.
• Leg lengthening – A special frame or device is used to slowly stretch the shorter bone and help it grow over time.

Treatment for mild and severe leg length discrepancy in children is chosen based on how much the difference affects movement and comfort.

When Is Surgery Needed for Uneven Leg Length in Kids?

Surgery is usually considered when the difference is expected to be more than 2–5 cm at maturity or if your child has trouble walking or pain.

Surgery May Be Needed If:

• There is a large projected difference in leg length
• Walking is difficult or painful
• Shoe lifts are not helping enough

After surgery, physical therapy and regular follow-ups help with recovery. Leg lengthening surgery for children is done in stages and may take several months to complete.

Why Early Treatment Matters: Preventing Long-Term Problems

Ignoring leg length differences can lead to more serious problems later:

• Back pain and posture issues
• Uneven hips or pelvis
• Joint stress in knees or ankles
• Difficulty keeping up in physical activities

Long-term effects of untreated leg length discrepancy in kids can be avoided with timely treatment and follow-up.

Meet the Doctor: Dr. Atul Bhaskar – Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon in Mumbai

If you’re looking for someone with deep experience in managing leg length issues in children, Dr. Atul Bhaskar is a trusted name in pediatric orthopedic in Mumbai.

He treats children with leg length discrepancies using both non-surgical and surgical methods, based on what’s right for each child’s situation. Parents across Mumbai consult him for conditions like flat feet, hip problems, and growth disorders in kids.

To schedule a consultation, you can visit his clinic or get in touch online.

Long-tail keyword suggestion: best pediatric orthopedic doctor in Mumbai for leg length discrepancy

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is a normal leg length difference in children?
A small difference (less than 1 cm) is usually harmless. Larger differences may need treatment.

2. Can leg length discrepancy fix itself over time?
Minor differences might not get worse and sometimes even out as a child grows. Regular monitoring is important.

3. What are the non-surgical treatment options?
Shoe lifts, physiotherapy, and regular check-ups are used for smaller discrepancies.

Take the First Step Toward Your Child’s Health Today

Early care can make a big difference in your child’s comfort and future mobility. If you’re concerned about leg length differences, don’t wait.

📞 Contact Dr. Atul Bhaskar in Mumbai today to book an appointment.