Average Leg-Length Inequality in Total Hip Arthroplasty was 9.7 mm (3/8")

Uneven leg length is one of the complications of a total hip replacement surgery.

A study by the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Naval Medical Center, Oakland, California revealed; "Leg-length inequality was determined by orthoroentgenography and compared with clinical measurements of leg length. The average inequality in this series of patients was 9.7 mm. A significant number (32%) of patients were aware of this inequality; the average leg-length inequality in this group was 14.9 mm. More than half of these patients were disturbed by the inequality. The magnitude of leg-length inequality closely correlated with awareness of the inequality, abnormal gait, use of ambulatory assistive devices, the need for a shoe lift, prior leg-length inequality." Am J Orthop (Belle Mead NJ). 1995 Apr;24(4):347-51.

Heel lifts are a vital treatment option for patients after their total hip replacement surgery with limb length discrepancy. A short leg should be properly measured and an appropriately sized heel lift dispensed into their shoe.

Atlas Biomechanics manufactures heel lifts in EVA/Rubber Blend and Cork/Rubber Blend in sizes;

3 mm (1/8")
6 mm (1/4")
9 mm (3/8")
12 mm (1/2")

Teri Green
Atlas Biomechanics