Biomechanical effects of unequal lower limb length in children
Official title: Biomechanical Analysis of the Impact of Lower Limb Length Discrepancy on Hip and Lumbar Spine Joints in Children
Run by Hospices Civils de Lyon · NCT07254351 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This project will use low-dose biplanar X-rays (EOS) and synchronized force plates to see if anatomical leg-length differences in 10–15-year-olds change loads on the hips and lower spine.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Ages | 10 Years to 15 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 100 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Hospices Civils de Lyon Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Bron) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | April 7, 2026 |
| Main results expected | June 7, 2029 |
| Study ends | June 7, 2029 |
| Registry record updated | April 17, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07254351 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Children aged 10–15 with an anatomical lower limb length discrepancy >5 mm who can stand unassisted for 30 seconds, are covered by social security, and whose parents provide consent.
✕Probably not a fit
Children with only functional/postural discrepancies, major neurologic or orthopedic conditions preventing standing, or contraindications to EOS imaging are unlikely to benefit from this protocol.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This observational study will enroll children aged 10–15 with an anatomical lower limb length discrepancy greater than 5 mm. Participants will undergo low-dose biplanar EOS imaging and synchronized ground reaction force recordings, with data integrated into personalized musculoskeletal models developed with the Biomechanics and Impact Mechanics Laboratory (LBMC). A temporary shoe lift will be tested to measure the immediate biomechanical effect, and participants will be re-evaluated at two years without the lift. The study aims to quantify hip joint and lumbar intervertebral disc loads to better inform early clinical management.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the findings could help clinicians select earlier, targeted interventions (for example shoe lifts or monitoring) to reduce future joint degeneration and chronic low back pain.
How similar studies have gone: This is the first pediatric study combining EOS imaging, force platforms, and personalized musculoskeletal modeling, although similar biomechanical approaches have been used in adult research.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Children aged 10-15 years * Anatomical LLD \> 5 mm, clinically measured * EOS imaging indicated by the pediatric orthopedic surgeon in routine care * Ability to stand still for 30 seconds without assistance * Covered by social security * Parental consent and non-opposition obtained Exclusion Criteria: * \- Functional or postural LLD without true anatomical discrepancy * History of major pelvic or spinal surgery * Severe neurological or orthopedic condition preventing standing (e.g. cerebral palsy, progressive myopathy) * Fixed equinus deformity preventing plantar support * Major lower limb deformity (severe genu varum/valgum) * Contraindication or inability to undergo EOS imaging
Where it's running
-
Hospices Civils de Lyon Service d'Orthopédie et de Traumatologie
Bron, France Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Thierry HAUMONT, MD — Hospices Civils de Lyon
- Study coordinator: Thierry HAUMONT, MD, PhD
- Email: thierry.haumont@chu-lyon.fr
- Phone: 4 27 85 57 88
How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.