[History of lengthening and equalization of lower extremities]. 
Chronological history of development of methods for elongation and equalization of lower extremities is presented.  An elongation by distraction of an osteotomized shaft and shortening by resection of a shaft fragment is discussed.  An epiphyseal stimulation and arrest and non-aggressive method of epiphyseal distraction are shown.  The author's intention was to present the development of this field of orthopedics and to prevent researching ideas known in the past.