Is One Of Your Legs Longer Than The Other?
If you suspect that one of your legs is shorter than the other, you are not alone. According to a study published in the Journal of Healthcare Engineering, about 40%-70% of people live with a condition known as leg length discrepancy, or LLD. "Most people have leg length discrepancies that are permanent, and a lot of people have temporary leg length discrepancies either due to tight hamstrings, quads, lower back, or a weak core," Jamey Plunk, a professor of exercise science at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, told Runner's World.
As common as this condition might be, you may want to make an appointment with your doctor for an official diagnosis. Medical News Today notes that your doctor may take a pelvis X-ray, conduct a physical examination, and take note of how you sit and stand in order to make a diagnosis. There are also tests you can do yourself at home if you suspect you may have LLD. However, Gulf News states that measuring the real length of your legs can be hard to do without an X-ray.
Stretch often and consider adding a consider simple corrections
Medical News Today notes that in some cases, LLD can still occur if the legs are the same length, but there are other issues with the feet, hips, pelvis, or knees. "In some instances, leg length differences are due to a structural problem like scoliosis," Plunk told Runners World. "Amazingly, many people with this type of condition who exercise have managed to make it work without any major problems."
WebMD states that small leg length discrepancies are likely nothing to worry about. However, people who have LLD with a difference of two centimeters or more are at a greater risk of developing a form of arthritis known as osteoarthritis. Whether you have a small discrepancy or one that is more noticeable, it is recommended to stretch your hamstrings and quadriceps often at a comfortable level to minimize physical strain. Depending on the cause of your LLD, one of the easiest ways to correct this condition is to wear custom-made shoe soles or to build up the heel on the shorter side (via Gulf News).
As previously stated, if you're dealing with a leg discrepancy, you're not alone. If you suspect you do have LLD, then make an appointment with your doctor for an accurate diagnosis. Together, you can also discuss the best way to manage any symptoms you may be experiencing.