It was previously thought that small discrepancies (less than 20mm) were clinically irrelevant. That view has been challenged. Recent studies highlight that even minor differences can affect spinal alignment, joint loading, and muscle coordination:

• Pelvic tilt and functional scoliosis often develop as the spine adapts to a tilted pelvis.
• Overuse of the quadratus lumborum, glute medius, adductors, and spinal stabilisers is common, leading to fatigue and chronic tightness.
• Gait becomes asymmetric, often affecting step length and joint torque on both legs.
• Long-term load mismatch increases the risk of joint degeneration.

One long-term study (Tallroth et al., 2017) tracked people for nearly three decades. Those with leg length differences of just 6 to 10 mm were three times more likely to need hip or knee replacement due to osteoarthritis, even if they had no symptoms at the start.

How It Works

Our Approach at Westside Sports Chiropractic

At Westside Sports Chiropractic, we take a precise, evidence-informed approach to LLD. Here’s what you can expect:

To stay upright, the body adjusts to leg length differences by tilting the pelvis, which often results in a reversible spinal curve known as functional scoliosis. This postural compensation overworks certain muscle groups, creating persistent tension and strain.
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X-ray images clearly show how spinal curves caused by LLD can resolve when the leg is balanced using a heel lift. In one case, placing a 20 mm block under the short leg reversed a scoliosis that had developed due to the discrepancy.

• X-ray evidence shows spinal curves resolving after heel lifts are used to correct the discrepancy.
• Sheha et al. (2018) demonstrated that long-standing LLD contributes to spinal disc degeneration and scoliosis, even in differences under 10 mm.
• Sevim Eryiğit et al. (2022) used EMG to show that quadratus lumborum activation increases asymmetrically with mild LLD, highlighting the muscular strain involved.

To stay upright, the body adjusts to leg length differences by tilting the pelvis, which often results in a reversible spinal curve known as functional scoliosis. This postural compensation overworks certain muscle groups, creating persistent tension and strain.
‍
X-ray images clearly show how spinal curves caused by LLD can resolve when the leg is balanced using a heel lift. In one case, placing a 20 mm block under the short leg reversed a scoliosis that had developed due to the discrepancy.

• X-ray evidence shows spinal curves resolving after heel lifts are used to correct the discrepancy.
• Sheha et al. (2018) demonstrated that long-standing LLD contributes to spinal disc degeneration and scoliosis, even in differences under 10 mm.
• Sevim Eryiğit et al. (2022) used EMG to show that quadratus lumborum activation increases asymmetrically with mild LLD, highlighting the muscular strain involved.