Leg Length Inequality

A prospective study of young men during their military service

Abstract

Within a prospective study of back function and pain before and after basic military training, the leg length inequality (LLI) was assessed, in steps of less than 0.5 cm. (equal), 0.5–1.5 cm, 1.6–2.5 cm, 2.6–3.5 cm and more than 3.5 cm. Around six hundred young men were examined three times over a period of four years. LLI of 0.5–1.5 cm was found in 32%, and 4% had a difference of over 1,5 cm. Pelvic rotation was noted in 15% of the cases. The average total agreement of identifying LLI was 64% between the three examinations. No correlation was found between LLI and back-pain or pain-provocing tests. In those with LLI in standing there was a tendency towards more remarks on SI-joint mobility tested in lying. During the follow-up period, no correlation of the LLI and the result of the other examination variables could be found.