12/08/2025
Frequently asked question. Why do you check my leg length?
Chiropractors check leg length to identify imbalances in the pelvis or hips. It can give us an indication of how the spinal musculoskeletal system is functioning and why a patient may have pain in the back region.
In some cases, leg length discrepancy is anatomical — the bones of the lower leg (the tibia and femur) have measurably different lengths due to a birth defect, bone or growth plate injury or a joint replacement surgery. However, most leg length discrepancy is functional — it’s a result of how you’re using your body.
Your musculoskeletal system is like a connected pulley network. When one part shifts out of alignment, the rest of your body adjusts to balance you out. Leaning constantly on one hip, for example, shifts other body parts and joints of alignment. Although our bones are usually equal in length, functional leg length discrepancy causes one leg to appear longer when really, it’s just a misalignment in your pelvis, hip, knee, ankle, or foot.
If your leg length discrepancy is minuscule, you may not feel any symptoms. However, even a 2-centimeter difference can force your pelvis to compensate for posture imbalance. Because they force you to work harder to maintain your balance, moderate-to-severe cases may cause:
Limping or a slight change in gait
Trouble bending or standing for extended periods
Exhaustion after physical activity
Loss of balance
Lower back pain, tension and discomfort
Hip pain, tension and discomfort
Runner’s Knee
Ankle pain, tension and discomfort
Plantar fasciitis
As they intensify, these symptoms can severely impact your quality of life, so figuring out why you’re struggling with them and how to resolve them should be a priority.