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Flat Feet, High Arches & Alignment Disorders

Foot & Ankle Malalignment and Leg-Length Discrepancy

Causes, symptoms, and treatment for foot and ankle malalignment and leg-length differences, with care at 15 clinics across Middle Tennessee.

Part of Flat Feet, High Arches & Alignment Disorders

Understanding foot and ankle malalignment and leg-length differences and your options.

Malalignment means the bones of the foot, ankle, or leg do not line up as they should. A leg-length difference means one leg is shorter than the other. Either one can change the way your body carries weight.

Small differences are common and often cause no trouble. Larger ones can lead to pain in the feet, knees, hips, or back.

Request an appointmentCall 615-220-8788
Foot & Ankle Malalignment and Leg-Length Discrepancy care

Symptoms

Signs of foot and ankle malalignment and leg-length differences.

If you notice these signs, an exam can give you clear answers.

  • 01

    Uneven wear on the soles of your shoes

  • 02

    Pain in the foot, knee, hip, or low back

  • 03

    A limp or a tilt when you walk

  • 04

    Ankles that roll in or out

Why it happens

What can cause foot and ankle malalignment and leg-length differences.

  • 01

    Growth differences between the legs

  • 02

    A past fracture or surgery

  • 03

    Arthritis or joint wear

  • 04

    Flat feet, high arches, or tight muscles

Care groupFlat Feet, High Arches & Alignment Disorders

Diagnosis and care

How we treat foot and ankle malalignment and leg-length differences.

Step 1 · Diagnosis

We check how you stand, measure both legs, and look at joint position while you walk. Standing X-rays of the feet and ankles help us see the true alignment. Longer leg X-rays may be arranged to measure length.

Step 2 · Treatment

A small shoe lift can even out a modest leg-length difference. Custom orthotics correct foot position and share pressure more evenly. Physical therapy works on strength and flexibility, and supportive shoes help you stay steady. Bracing may add support around the ankle.

Surgery is not common. It may be considered for a painful bone deformity or a large difference that other care cannot manage.

Recovery

What to expect over time.

Lifts and orthotics often help within a few weeks, though your body needs time to adjust. Progress depends on the cause and how large the difference is.

When to book

Do not wait it out.

See us if you notice uneven shoe wear, lasting pain, or a limp that will not go away. Children with an uneven walk should be checked early.

Call 615-220-8788

Related care

More in Flat Feet, High Arches & Alignment Disorders.

FAQ

Your questions answered.

How much leg-length difference matters?

It depends on the person. A small difference may not cause trouble, so we treat based on symptoms and exam.

Can a shoe lift fix it?

For many mild cases, a lift eases strain. It does not change the bones.

Get help with foot and ankle malalignment and leg-length differences.

Request an appointmentCall 615-220-8788

Where we treat it

Foot & Ankle Malalignment and Leg-Length Discrepancy care at 15 clinics.

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