Why does limb length discrepancy cause limping?

During walking, the body adjusts to help both feet reach the ground and keep the eyes level. A shorter leg may prompt extra pelvic movement, toe walking, or a change in knee position; a longer leg may cause the person to bend that knee or alter the way the foot contacts the floor. These adjustments can shorten one stride and increase effort in the hips, knees, or lower back. The difference may be structural, or it may only appear because of joint stiffness, muscle tightness, or another alignment change.

A clinician can compare leg lengths, observe your gait, and check the hips, knees, feet, and pelvis. Measurements may be repeated in standing because the apparent difference can change with posture. Management depends on the size and cause of the discrepancy and may involve exercises, footwear changes, a gradual shoe insert, or treatment of an underlying joint problem. An insert should be selected with professional guidance rather than added abruptly.

Arrange an assessment if a limp is new, persistent, painful, or becoming more noticeable. Seek prompt care after an injury, or when you cannot bear weight, the leg looks deformed, or there is new numbness or weakness. Sudden worsening deserves timely review.

Is the difference structural or caused by how my joints and muscles move? How will you measure it while I stand? Would an insert help, and how should I introduce it? Which exercises can improve my walking control?