What is a typical characteristic of patients with leg length deficiency?

• A. Easy fatigue during exercise
• B. Visible limping
• C. Marked muscle weakness
• D. Asymmetrical gait

Answer: (D)

Patients with leg length deficiency often exhibit an asymmetrical gait as a characteristic feature. This occurs because one side of the body is shorter than the other, leading to compensatory movements when walking. As a result, the individual may adjust their stride length and posture to accommodate the difference in leg lengths, resulting in a noticeable asymmetry during their gait. This adaptation can affect various aspects of their walking pattern, such as the timing of footfalls and the amount of weight placed on each leg, further contributing to the overall asymmetrical appearance of their movement.

The other characteristics mentioned, such as easy fatigue during exercise, visible limping, and marked muscle weakness, can be present in some individuals with leg length discrepancies, but these are not universally defining traits. Instead, the asymmetrical gait directly reflects the impact of leg length deficiency on locomotion, making it a key indicator of this particular condition.