The Knee Renew Program -Leg Length Discrepancy
Part two of the three step Knee Renew correction system examines another leading cause of knee dysfunction and pain, Leg Length Discrepancy (LLD). Leg length discrepancy is a quite common observation and affects up to an estimated 90% of the population, ranging anywhere from a negligible amount to up to an inch and sometimes more.
The greater the Leg Length discrepancy, the greater the deviation from normal walking patterns and in normal skeletal biomechanics, as shown in the image (Crooked Man). There is an undeniable connection between leg length discrepancy and the normal function of our proprioceptive nervous system. Therefore, it is essential to restore a more normal leg length to improve body movement, postural alignment, balance and the knee position.
Leg length discrepancy is most often the result of excessive pronation which was addressed and balanced with the arches in part one but can also be caused by an anatomical difference in bone length. How to check for leg length discrepancy will now be explained.
The subject that is being evaluated will now place their shoes on with any corrective supports which were previously applied from part one. Have the subject lie face down as straight as possible on a bed or long bench with their feet hanging off the side as shown in the photo below to the left. The examiner will grasp both shoes, level them off and slightly push towards the head. Now the examiner will look straight down to compare the heels to see if they are even, as illustrated in the photo below on the right, or if one leg is shorter than the other. Repeat two or three times to verify your findings
After several trials, if one leg is shorter by more than 2mm, as illustrated in the photo below, a heel lift for that shoe will be necessary. If the leg lengths are even, continue to part three.
The heel lifts available on our website consist of three adjustable segments that range from 3mm 6mm and 9mm. If you require additional segment pieces for discrepancies over 9mm please use the contact form and one of our staff will be in touch as soon as possible. Once balance has been achieved between the arches of the feet and the heel lifts you will want to repeat the procedure at least once per month to assure continued accuracy and balance.
Now we will turn to the third and final part of the program as we illustrate the traction portion of our program utilizing the revolutionary Knee Renew Traction unit.