Information for Medical Professionals

Leg length inequality could boost osteoarthritis risk

Leg length inequality could increase the chances that a person develops osteoarthritis of the knee, it has been claimed.

According to new research led by orthopaedic specialist Derek Cooke, osteoarthritic changes were more prevalent and severe in patients diagnosed with a distinct difference in leg length.

Cooke's team looked at more than 3,000 adults aged between 50 and 79 in the multi-centre osteoarthritis study.

Each patient was reassessed after 30 months.

The scientists found that a difference of leg length of more than one centimetre related to more severe knee pain in the shorter leg.

Commenting on the research, Cooke said: "Most paediatricians adopt a 'wait and see' attitude for children with limb misalignment when they're growing.

"If we can spot factors creating changes in alignment early in bone development, theoretically we could stop or slow down the progression of osteoarthritis."

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