The Question of Short Lower Limb and Long Lower in Manual Therapy: An Overview

Luca Collebrusco,Paola Casoli,Giovanna Censi

doi:10.4236/ojtr.2020.84013

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to review relevant literature concerning limb length inequalities in adults and to make recommendations for assessment and intervention based on the literature and our own clinical experience. The research was carried out on PUB MED, Non-English articles and duplicates in the databases were not included. Limb length inequality and common classification criteria are defined and etiological factors are present. Common methods of detecting limb length inequality include model manual technics. This work has the purpose of describing a well standardized therapeutic in the form of practical guidance. The approach we describe provides standardized model evaluation for leg lower limb in order to be used in rehabilitation clinic.

Highlights

Leg length discrepancy (LLD) has been found to be a significant factor influencing several pathological and physiological conditions, which affect function and quality of life [1] [2]
Direct assessment of apparent LLD during physical examination is performed with the patient supine and involves measuring from the anterior superior iliac spines (ASIS) to the medial malleolus (Figure 2(A)) [17]
To promote a patient centred approach, providers should consider evaluating for LLD in somatic dysfunction

Summary

Introduction

Leg length discrepancy (LLD) has been found to be a significant factor influencing several pathological and physiological conditions, which affect function and quality of life [1] [2]. LLD occurs in about 40% - 70% of the population. Most have a leg length difference smaller than 20 mm. The past several decades, limb length inequality has been the topic of a great deal of disagreement among clinical investigators and researchers. The existence of limb length inequality is not in doubt. Little agreement exists regarding the degree of limb length inequality that is considered clinically significant [3]. Several classification systems or categories of limb length inequality have been propos.

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