Most people have a small difference in leg length, and many never have symptoms. Sometimes it contributes to low back, hip, knee or foot pain, particularly in runners.

The first job is to work out whether the difference is real and whether it is related to your pain at all.

Practitioner assessing a patient’s pelvis and legs

Two kinds

  • Structural: one leg bone is actually shorter
  • Functional: the legs are the same, but the pelvis tilt or muscle tightness makes one seem shorter

How we assess and manage it

We examine the pelvis, hips and spine, and refer for formal measurement or imaging if a structural difference is suspected. Functional differences are treated with joint and soft tissue work and corrective exercise. Where a significant structural difference is confirmed, we may suggest a heel lift or orthotic or refer you to a podiatrist.

For runners

Running repeats the same stride thousands of times, so a small imbalance can be loaded repeatedly. We look at your whole movement pattern rather than blaming one number.

What to expect at your first visit

The first appointment is 45 minutes. See what happens at your first visit.

  • A conversation about what happened, what makes it better or worse, and what you want to get back to
  • A hands-on examination of the painful area and the joints and muscles around it
  • A clear explanation of what we find and what we recommend, including how long it may take
  • Treatment at the first visit when it is appropriate, plus exercises to take home

Clinically reviewed by Dr. Woosang (Jason) Lee, Sports & Exercise Chiropractor. Last reviewed . General information only; it is not a substitute for an individual assessment.