Limb-length discrepancies and limb differences refer to conditions in which arms or legs (also known as limbs) are unequal in length or show other differences. This might mean that one leg is longer than the other, or one leg is shorter than the other.

Limb-length conditions can result from:

• Congenital disorders of the bones, muscles or joints.
• Disuse or overuse of the bones, muscles or joints caused by illness or disease.
• Diseases, such as bone cancer.
• Issues of the spine, shoulder or hip.
• Traumatic injuries, such as severe fractures that damage growth plates.

Leg-length discrepancy symptoms can include difficulty walking. If your child has a leg-length discrepancy or arm-length discrepancy, you might notice them having difficulty engaging in everyday activities.

In many cases, signs of limb-length conditions are subtle and only noticeable in certain situations, such as when buying clothing or playing sports. An evaluation should be conducted if your infant, child or teen shows signs of difficulty using the arms or legs.

Proper initial assessments by qualified pediatric orthopedic providers can reduce the likelihood of long-term complications and increase the likelihood that nonsurgical management will be effective. In most cases, very mild limb-length discrepancies require no formal treatment at all.

As leaders in pediatric orthopedics, skilled surgeons and nurse practitioners at Gillette Children’s are experts in diagnosing, treating and managing limb-length conditions—whether your child is born with the condition, or it develops over time.

Treatments for limb-length discrepancies and differences vary, depending on the cause and severity of your child’s condition. Orthopedic surgeons at Gillette are experts in typical and atypical growth and development, which helps in planning treatments that offer your child a lifetime of benefits.

Treatments might include monitoring growth and development, providing noninvasive treatments or therapy, and providing a combination of orthopedic surgical procedures.

When you choose Gillette for comprehensive diagnosis, treatment and management of limb-length conditions, your family will benefit from:

• Facilities and technology designed specifically for people who have limb-length conditions and disabilities.
• One of the nation’s highest concentrations of orthopedic surgeons who focus on the needs of children.
• A family-centered team that will work closely with your primary care providers, teachers, and school or community therapists.

If your child has a limb-length condition, we’ll help you coordinate the services and specialties you need. For comprehensive limb-length conditions treatment, your family might work with experts in:

• Assistive technology.
• Child life.
• Nursing.
• Occupational therapy.
• Orthopedics.
• Physical therapy.
• Radiology and imaging.
• Rehabilitation medicine.
• Social work.
• Therapeutic recreation.