Only a person who has disproportionate arms or legs can understand the emotional, physical, and social difficulties that come with this type of deformity.
There is a name for it: Limb Length Discrepancy – or LLD. The good news is - you don’t have to live your life always feeling different. There is something you can do about it that will help give you limbs that are the same length.
Limb lengthening surgery can be done by a qualified and trusted orthopedic surgeon. This surgery can add inches to your shorter limb and you will be on your way to a happier and more active life.
Causes of Limb Length Discrepancy
Limb or leg length discrepancy (LLD) is a condition where there is a difference between the length of the arms or legs. This condition can be caused by several factors.
- Congenital. Congenital limb discrepancy is present at birth.
- Developmental. A childhood disease or injury can damage or slow the growth plates, resulting in an arm or leg that is shorter than the other.
- Idiopathic. In these cases, the cause for the discrepancy is unknown.
- Post-traumatic. Limb length discrepancy can be caused by an injury (such as a fracture), that doesn’t heal properly and the bone ends are left shortened.
Some cases of limb length discrepancy are present at birth but may go unnoticed until the child begins to crawl or walk. If the discrepancy is significant and involves the legs, it can lead to significant issues with gait and healthy development of the leg that is of normal length.
The Challenges of Disproportionate Arms or Legs
Whatever the cause of your LLD, you may be a good candidate for limb lengthening surgery. Limb lengthening surgery can give your affected limb the added inches needed to make both limbs the same length. With this surgery, your limbs will be even in length and you will be able to lead a normal life.
The social ramifications of having disproportionate arms or legs can make it hard to go about normal activities. As a child, you may have been called names, picked on, and had problems dating. Sports may have been a challenge for you. As an adult – you may have been passed over for promotions, and others may not take you seriously because of your disproportionate arms or legs. People with this type of deformity are oftentimes perceived as being weak and need to be taken care of.
Limb lengthening surgery can give you limbs that are even in length - something you have only dreamed of. An experienced orthopedic surgeon will determine if you are a good candidate for this surgery. Your orthopedic surgeon will give you all of the information you need to make an informed decision on whether you choose to have this life-changing procedure. After limb lengthening surgery, you will no longer have to live with the problems associated with limb length discrepancy. Follow-up soon with your orthopedic specialist to have all of your questions answered.
