Leg length discrepancy?

Hi Jill, I had lthr on 11th Dec last year. Was told it would cure the dreadful pain in both knees but it hasnt done. Was also told my legs would be the same length after the op. They werent . My left leg is longer! Saw my surgeon Feb 24th and he said that owing to right hip dysplasia, I would need it replacing too! They never said anything about this before my left hip was replaced! So it seems I'm also heading for another hip replacement before the end of the year! I'm 57 by the way.

Yes. Just had 3rd op on right hip, wherein surgeon has lengthened leg by 4cms. Fells weird but really pleased.

Im in the same boat. my right leg is now an inch and a half longer than the left and where i was assuming this op would give the other leg a longer life my surgeon doesnt want it getting as bad so wants it done within 12 months. Im seeing physio next week and will be talking to them about heel lifts etc as i cant walk around wonky for 12 months

When I had my first hip done the surgeon made it a bit longer so it is possible. I've just had the other one done and that feels longer though I don't know if that's just a feeling. However I've lived for years with different leg lengths due to different pelvis sizes. If it's a new thing for you you should be able to get foot inserts or shoe raisers from the hospital. Then when you have the next one done hopefully they will be able to equalise the legs.

I have the same problem, but was made aware of the issue before the surgery. I am having my other hip redone in about 4 months and then, I am assured, I will be even again.

My doctor does not want me to wear any kind of lifts, he says the muscles in my operated leg will have to stretch out after shrinking to accommodate my worn hip. And I can tell you my muscles are not happy campers, especially at night. I am only  taking over-the-counter meds and simply coping. It has only been five weeks since my operation, had it done anterior, which is much less stress on your body. Neverr used a walker, a cane for 3 days and negoiated stairs 24 hrs after the operation.

So don't stress too much about the leg difference, but understand that your surgeon is correct - you need to have the other hip done.

I had my left thr on Dec.5 2014 and it was about 1 1/4 longer, then on March 9 2015  (3 months later) had the right thr done and it is all evened up now.  I knew going forward I needed both hips done and was told that leg length was going to be an issue after the the left thr was done.  But it all worked out fine.  I am 56 and feel good now.  I had bad muscle spasams too after surgery but it finally stopped.  I was told increase my potassium intake to help muscle spasams and I think it helped. Go for the 2nd op. and get your leg length sorted out it not easy to think about but glad I did it, easier to walk with both legs same length.

I had my RTHR in August  2014.  My op leg was 1-1/2" shorter than left.  I had pains everywhere.  I finally had a revision in February 2015.  Now my op leg is only about 1/2" shorter.  Still have sciatica, but rest of pains are gone.  I refused to have my shoes built up and wearing heal lifts didn't help.

Hi Jill!

I also had this problem and I'm 6 weeks out. My leg seems to be settling in a little more so my limp is becoming less noticeable. I really think Physical Therapy has a lot to do with it. 

Good luck to you!