What Is Leg Length Discrepancy?
Leg length discrepancy is characterized by one leg being shorter than the other. This is actually a common problem that many people have; most people won't notice the discrepancy because the difference is minor.
Many of us will, however, notice the symptoms when there is a difference in leg lengths. Even if we don't realize we have it, leg length discrepancy can cause many problems: postural problems, back aches, joint pain (particularly in the hips, knees, or ankles) knee pain, fatigue, and limping, and may lead to mobility issues.
It may surprise you to learn that the root of a leg length discrepancy may not be in your legs at all; the root cause may be in your neck.
The Link Between A Short Leg and An Atlas Misalignment
The uppermost seven vertebrae comprise the upper cervical spine. These vertebrae go from the base of the skull and run down the neck. The very top vertebra, which sits at the base of the skull, is called the atlas. The atlas is responsible for holding up the weight of the head.
When the atlas is misaligned, the body shifts to compensate for the misalignment. This shift causes a domino effect down the body, putting undue stress on the joints, muscles, and ligaments.
But Why Is My Leg Shorter?
When the vertebrae are misaligned and unnatural pressure is put on other joints and tissue, it can cause muscles to contract and tighten. When muscles tighten, they pull up. These tightened muscles can pull up on one side of the back, pulling up the hip, and pulling up one leg so that it is shorter than the other.
You might think that the bigger the discrepancy, the more likely the symptoms will cause pain and health problems, but this is just not so. Symptoms due to a minuscule discrepancy can be just as bad as those experienced by someone with a severe discrepancy. This is why identifying the cause of the problem is so crucial to treatment.
How We Treat Leg Length Discrepancies Caused by the Upper Cervical Spine
At Upper Spine Knoxville, our upper cervical specialist, Dr. Bejian Shamloo, will do a leg check test to identify the problem. The examination begins using advanced technology, such as 3D imaging and infrared thermography, to detect any misalignments in the vertebrae. These diagnostic tests can detect misalignments down to the millimeter so that Dr. Shamloo can accurately calculate precise corrections.
The doctor will then make the necessary corrections to bring the upper cervical spine into proper alignment. Once this is done, the patient may feel some immediate relief. With the spine now in the correct position, it eliminates the excess stress put in the wrong places so that the body can begin the natural healing process.
If you suffer from aches and pains associated with leg length discrepancy, contact our office for a consultation. We service patients in Knoxville, Alcoa, Maryville, Farragut, Clinton, Oak Ridge, Sevierville, Lenoir City, Karns, Hardin Valley, Powell, Halls, and Fountain City in Tennessee, as well as the surrounding areas.
