Do I Have Uneven Legs? Footwear Wear Patterns and Solutions

Do I have leg length discrepancy?

Hello, thank you for taking the time to answer my question.
My issue is that when I used to wear high heels, I noticed that the heel of my right shoe was worn down unevenly, slanting to the right, but I didn't think much of it.
Recently, I've been paying more attention to this problem and it seems to be getting worse.
The right heel has worn down to the point where the metal nail inside is exposed.
Initially, it was just worn unevenly, but now it's worn flat on the right side, while the left side shows little wear.
I measured it and I've already worn down the heel by 0.3 cm.
It's quite alarming.
A couple of days ago, I wore canvas shoes while accompanying a child to a theme park and walked a long distance, only to find that the hem of my right jeans was completely worn through.
When I got home and lay down to sleep, I felt a lot of soreness in my right foot.
How could this happen? It has never been this severe before.
If this condition is not treated, it seems like it will only get worse.
Doctor, which specialist should I see?

Irene, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/04/28

Dr. Pan Yingda reply Rehabilitation

Hello, I apologize for missing your question.
Your issue may not necessarily be due to leg length discrepancy, but it is certain that there is some imbalance between the two sides.
Determining if you have a leg length discrepancy is simple; you can measure it with a tape measure.
Most people have some degree of leg length discrepancy, and generally, a difference of less than 2.5 centimeters is considered acceptable.
However, if certain symptoms arise, adjustments may be necessary, with the most common method being the use of orthotic insoles.
Most cases similar to yours are not caused by leg length discrepancy, but rather by posture and walking habits.
A small portion may be due to previous injuries to the lumbar spine or feet, resulting in untrained muscle strength.
You may want to consult a rehabilitation physician.
Checking for leg length discrepancy is straightforward, but if it’s not the case, what’s next? Therefore, you should seek a doctor specialized in posture and gait, or a qualified Alexander Technique teacher (as far as I know, there are three in Taiwan), not to be confused with an Alexander gym! Best wishes! Pan Ying-Da, Department of Rehabilitation, Taitung Hospital.

Reply Date: 2007/04/28

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing some concerning issues with your footwear and possibly your leg alignment. The wear patterns on your shoes, particularly the uneven wear on the right heel, can indicate several underlying problems, including potential leg length discrepancies or gait abnormalities.
Firstly, it’s important to understand that uneven shoe wear can be a sign of how your body is compensating for imbalances. When one leg is longer than the other, or if there are differences in muscle strength or flexibility, it can lead to uneven pressure distribution when walking or running. This can cause one side of your shoes to wear down more quickly than the other, as you have observed with your right shoe.
The fact that you have noticed your right shoe heel wearing down to the point where the internal structure is exposed is concerning. This level of wear can lead to discomfort and may exacerbate any underlying issues you might have with your feet, ankles, knees, or hips. Additionally, if you are experiencing soreness in your right foot after wearing certain shoes, it could be a sign that your footwear is not providing the necessary support or cushioning, especially if you are wearing shoes that are not suited for your foot type or gait.

To address your concerns, here are some steps you can take:
1. Consult a Specialist: It would be beneficial to see a podiatrist or an orthopedic specialist who can evaluate your foot structure and gait. They can perform a thorough examination to determine if you have a leg length discrepancy or other biomechanical issues.
2. Gait Analysis: Many clinics offer gait analysis, which can help identify how you walk and if there are any abnormalities. This analysis can provide insights into how your foot strikes the ground and how weight is distributed across your feet.

3. Footwear Assessment: Bring your worn shoes to your appointment. A professional can assess the wear patterns and help determine if your current footwear is appropriate for your foot type and walking style. They may recommend specific types of shoes or orthotics to provide better support.

4. Consider Orthotics: If a leg length discrepancy or other biomechanical issues are identified, custom orthotics may be recommended. These can help correct alignment issues and provide additional support to alleviate discomfort.

5. Strengthening and Stretching Exercises: Depending on the findings, a physical therapist may suggest exercises to strengthen the muscles around your feet and legs, which can help improve your overall alignment and reduce discomfort.

6. Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep track of any pain or discomfort you experience, especially after wearing specific shoes or engaging in certain activities. This information can be helpful for your healthcare provider in diagnosing and treating your condition.

In summary, the wear patterns on your shoes and the discomfort you are experiencing warrant a professional evaluation. By consulting with a specialist, you can gain a better understanding of your foot health and receive tailored recommendations to address your concerns. Remember, early intervention can often prevent more serious issues down the line, so it’s wise to seek help sooner rather than later.

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