Tests of leg length inequality are an integral component of many chiropractic analytical techniques. However, little is known about the clinical utility of leg length testing.  This project will evaluate the psychometric properties of leg length inequality testing. This will include an assessment of the reliability and validity of the test, sensitivity to change of the test, and an assessment of whether the cephalad pressure placed on the patient’s feet during compressive leg testing influences the results of the test. This study should be of interest to chiropractors and educators who routinely use and teach the use of this test as a means of analysing for vertebral subluxations.

Grant Value: $19,708
Chief Investigator: Dr Kelly Holt – New Zealand College of Chiropractic
Status: In Progress

Clinical Applications:

Agreement between examiners varied widely, showing the test is highly sensitive to small changes in how it’s performed. Subtle differences in positioning, movement and contact affected measured leg‑length differences, so consistent results couldn’t be reproduced in this controlled setting. These findings point to underlying biomechanical factors that need further investigation before any clinical conclusions can be made.

Researcher Updates:

  • February 2026
    Data collection is complete for two major phases. The analysis for the first phase is complete, and analysis of the second phase is currently underway. Hope to be completed by the end of 2026.
  • January 2025
    Second phase of data collection is ongoing with the hope to be completed by the middle of 2025.
  • July 2024
    The first phase of data collection has been completed, and second phase is in progress.  It is anticipated that this second phase will be completed in the next two months.  It is estimated that the project will be completed by the end of 2024
  • October 2023
    COVID-related uncertainties, and team members were stuck overseas, resulting in a shortage of on-ground staff. Has delayed the progress of this project.  However data is being collected right now and the analysis will take place during 2024.