Many people notice when they go to the Chiropractor in Pensacola FL, they will often have their leg lengths checked by the chiropractor before he performs an adjustment and even though this same procedure is performed many times, they are still left asking the question “Why do chiropractors check leg length?”

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Does your Pensacola FL chiropractor check your leg length before they adjust you?

There are a few different reasons why chiropractors check leg length. First, by checking leg length we can get an idea of what kind of stress the body is under by determining if a short leg is due to an anatomical or functional problem. Second, it can help us identify any possible imbalances in the pelvis or hips. Third, it can give us an indication of how the spinal musculoskeletal system is functioning and why a patient may have pain in the back region.

This may all sound like a lot of information to take in but don’t worry! In this blog post, I’m going to break down each reason why leg length is important to check and what exactly we’re looking for when we do this assessment. So keep reading to learn more about why your chiropractor checks leg length!

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Chiropractors check leg length to help determine if there is functional or anatomical reason the leg lengths are different

Leg length discrepancies can be caused by anatomical or functional issues with the musculoskeletal system, and both can be a cause of lower back problems, such as decreased lumbar lordosis and disc herniation. Checking leg length can be a reliable way to determine the anatomical or functional source of pain in these areas and whether chiropractic care can help with the treatment. For example, if one leg is slightly shorter than the other due to anatomical reasons, chiropractors can suggest adjustments or exercises increase leg strength and balance out specific body parts that have misalignment due to the difference in anatomical leg lengths. If an evaluation of a patient reveals they have a functional leg length discrepancy, the treatment goals would be focused on getting all the spinal and pelvis joints to regain their full range of motion or the amount they can move. It would also be important to check the muscles of the lower back and gluteal region to make sure they are not too tight because tight muscles will cause a decrease in the amount of movement a joint has. For people who are experiencing persistent lower back pain, it’s important to get checked for leg length discrepancy as this could play an important role in finding relief from your discomfort.

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Chiropractors check leg length to see if there is an imbalance in the pelvis

A chiropractor can check to see if there is an imbalance in the pelvis by measuring the leg length. An imbalance of the pelvis is going to fall under the “functional” category. This can be caused by a variety of issues, such as muscular imbalances, misalignment of the spine, arthritis, or old age-related problems. All these possible causes of functional short leg causing the imbalance of the pelvis must be considered and ruled in or out because the proper diagnosis will lead to the proper treatment plan. Treatment for pelvic imbalances could consist of either manual or instrument adjustments from the chiropractor or specific at-home exercises to restore balance in the body. Taking regular trips to the chiropractor will help maintain good spinal health and reduce discomfort caused by asymmetry in leg length.

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Having one leg shorter can cause musculoskeletal problems in the back and hips

Chiropractic treatment can be incredibly helpful for those suffering from lower back and hip pain caused by a short leg. A chiropractor can gently manipulate the spine and joints to help relieve tension and improve posture. One of the areas chiropractors commonly focus on in relation to short legs is the sacroiliac joint. When a sacroiliac joint is not able to move as much as it is designed to move, it will create a functional short leg. As the posture of the body changes to adapt its movement patterns to this shortened leg the muscles can become very sore and painful due to overuse or tight and stiff from being underused. Through adjustments and therapeutic exercises, chiropractors can restore balance to the sacroiliac joints to reduce symptoms of back pain, hip pain, and knee pain.

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Treatment for having one leg shorter than the other may include adjustments, exercises, and lifestyle changes

Chiropractors are highly trained in treating imbalances in the body, particularly involving the musculoskeletal system, which is very important when it comes to evaluating and treating symptoms arising from both functional and anatomical short legs. They use chiropractic adjustments to reduce pain, inflammation, and muscle spasms while promoting normal joint movement and mobility. Exercises specific to the condition can help restore normal muscle strength and flexibility. Lifestyle changes such as better posture techniques, ergonomics at work, or regular stretches can prevent further imbalances from developing. All of these measures taken together can provide significant relief for imbalances in alignment that are causing back pain or other types of pain or discomfort.

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If you are experiencing pain in these areas, make an appointment with a chiropractor to have your leg length checked

Unfortunately, leg length discrepancy is a fairly common issue that can cause pain in the back hips, and even the neck pain. If you are experiencing pain in these areas, make an appointment with a chiropractor to have your leg length checked. Many symptoms of leg length discrepancy can often be mistaken for other issues, so it’s important to be evaluated by a professional to determine the root issue of your discomfort. Thankfully, the treatments available from a chiropractor are noninvasive and often result in immediate relief from pain and additional benefits over time. Talk to your chiropractor today to learn more about how they can help improve your overall health.