• Timgren J
• Soinila S

• Leg Length Inequality
• Pelvis / physiopathology
• Sacroiliac Joint / physiopathology
• Scoliosis

METHODS: We analyzed 150 consecutive neurologic patients referred to physiatric consultation based on their clinical examination findings.

RESULTS: We observed pelvic asymmetry associated with either C-type or S-type scoliosis and apparent leg-length difference in 87% of the patients. Symmetry could be reestablished by all patients, although 15% showed immediate or imminent relapse. Maintenance of symmetry showed a highly significant (P < .001) correlation with improvement in functional ability and reduction of pain as evaluated during the last visit to the physiatrist. In the follow-up questionnaire, 78% of the patients reported improvement in functional ability and reduced pain.

CONCLUSIONS: Our results support the view that leg-length difference and scoliosis may be more often of reversible nature than previously considered. Acquired postural asymmetry of the sacroiliac joint may be a neglected cause of several neurologic and other pain-related symptoms that can be relieved by a simple and safe treatment.

Click on the above link for the PubMed record for this article; full text by subscription. This abstract is reproduced with the permission of the publisher. DOI Link