Limb Length Discrepancy and Limb Differences

Limb length discrepancies and limb differences are conditions in which arms or legs (known as limbs) are unequal in length or show other differences. This might mean that one arm or leg is longer or shorter than the other. These limb differences and length discrepancies can sometimes be corrected with surgery.

Limb length conditions can result from:

• Congenital (present from birth) 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 that they have 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 clothes or playing sports. An evaluation should be conducted if your infant, child, or teen shows signs of difficulty using their arms or legs.

Exams by qualified pediatric orthopedic providers can reduce the likelihood of long-term complications and increase the likelihood that the condition can be managed without the use of surgery. 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 pediatric 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.