If you’ve ever been told that one of your legs is longer than the other, you’re not alone. Many people have a leg length discrepancy (LLD), and in most cases, it’s small and causes no issues. But when the difference becomes significant—or starts causing discomfort—it may be time to consider a heel lift.
At Stride Orthotics, we’re often asked:
“Should I have a lift added to my shoe or orthotic?”
The answer depends on a few key factors, and we’re here to help you understand what’s involved.
What is a Leg Length Discrepancy (LLD)?
LLD simply means that one leg is longer than the other. There are two main types:
– Structural LLD – One leg is physically longer due to bone length differences. This can be something you’re born with or the result of an injury or surgery.
– Functional LLD – The bones are the same length, but posture, joint alignment, or muscle tightness makes one leg look shorter. This is often related to the way the pelvis or spine is aligned.
If you’re unsure which type you have, don’t worry—we work with physical therapists and referring doctors to assess your posture, movement, and alignment before making recommendations.
How Much of a Lift Do I Need?
This is one of the most common questions we get—and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. In general:
- We often start with a ¼ inch (6 mm) lift, especially if you’ve never worn one before.
- If more correction is needed, we gradually increase the height based on how your body responds.
- Sometimes, we only treat part of the difference at first, to allow your muscles and joints time to adapt.
Where Does the Lift Go?
There are a few ways to apply a lift:
- Small lifts (¼ inch or less) can be attached directly to your orthotic.
- Slightly higher lifts (up to ½ inch) can be made as a separate layer that sits inside your shoe, under your orthotic.
- Larger lifts (½ inch or more) usually need to be added to the outside sole of your shoe by a skilled shoe repair specialist (a cobbler).
Keep in mind:
Deeper athletic or walking shoes are best for fitting these kinds of lifts. Most casual or dress shoes don’t have enough room inside, so we’ll help guide you on what type of footwear will work best.
What Happens If I Use the Wrong Size Lift?
Using a lift that’s too high—or placing it incorrectly—can throw off your alignment and lead to more problems. That’s why it’s so important to:
- Start gradually
- Reassess regularly
- Work with professionals who understand your foot type and overall biomechanics
At Stride, we take time to evaluate your posture, gait, joint function, and shoes before making any recommendations. We also collaborate with your healthcare team if needed.
Bottom Line
If you’re dealing with back, hip, or leg pain—and have been told you have a leg length difference—a properly fitted heel lift might make a world of difference. But it has to be the right amount, in the right place, in the right shoe.
If you have questions about heel lifts, orthotics, or foot support, reach out to us! We’re here to help you walk better, feel better, and move with confidence.
