Dysmetria or Short Leg Syndrome
What is dysmetria?
Dysmetria exists when there are differences in the length of the limbs above 1 cm , that is, when there is one leg shorter than the other, caused by anatomical or structural changes in the lower limbs.
Types of Lower Limb Dysmetria:
- Slight dysmetry: 1 to 3cm
- Moderate dysmetry: 3 to 6cm
- Severe dysmetria: greater than 6cm
Causes of Lower Limb Dysmetria:
- Structural dysmetry
- Congenital malformations;
- Changes in normal growth;
- Bone diseases;
- Changes in bone structure or vascular causes.
- Acquired dysmetria
- External injuries such as trauma;
- Osteoarticular infections;
- Neurological or vascular diseases, with mechanical or positional origin.
It is important to check whether it is a “ true or false short leg ”. This is because there may be dysmetria due to the leg bones actually being shorter or when the length of the leg bones is the same but there is a difference in the level of the pelvis.
Does dysmetria interfere with walking and running?
Yes, dysmetria has effects on gait, running, posture and walking and can cause stress fractures in the femur and tibia and the longest limb responsible for low back pain (pain in the spine); causes scoliosis (deviations in the spine). There is also a strong correlation between a longer limb and unilateral plantar fasciitis (pain in the sole of the foot).
How is the treatment carried out?
The earlier short leg syndrome is discovered and the earlier treatment is started, the greater the chances of correction, especially if treatment is started in childhood.
When the difference between the length of the legs is equal to or less than 0.5cm, there is generally no need for treatment, and it is common for most people to have this difference in adulthood. However, when the difference is greater, treatment can be done with:
- Use of a height insole that is placed under the heel of the shorter leg to equalize the height of both legs. This insole must be placed inside the shoes when the shortening is up to 2 cm, but in greater height differences, custom-made shoes can be used;
- Physiotherapy sessions to release fascia, lengthen shortened muscles, correct scoliosis, and reduce pain and muscle weakening, for example;
- Osteopathy and RPG sessions which are very effective in aligning the entire body and can cure false short legs;
- Surgery for correcting short legs, especially indicated in cases of true short legs measuring more than 2 cm. The doctor may also suggest another surgery called epiphysiodesis, which consists of stopping the growth of the healthy leg.