The Pros and Cons of Shoe Lifts
Shoe lifts—also known as heel lifts or orthotic inserts—are commonly used to correct leg length differences, improve posture, or reduce pain. But do they actually work? As a chiropractor with over 30 years of experience, I’ve seen many patients ask about their effectiveness, especially for chronic back, hip, or knee pain. Here’s what you need to know before using shoe lifts.
They Can Help with Leg Length Differences
A true leg length discrepancy can cause poor alignment and strain on the spine and joints.
Benefit: A properly measured lift can help balance the pelvis and reduce stress on your spine.
Useful for Certain Injuries or Conditions
Shoe lifts are sometimes used after surgeries or injuries, like hip surgery or Achilles tendon issues, to reduce strain during recovery.
Benefit: They help promote balanced movement during recovery.
Can Relieve Pain
For conditions like scoliosis, pelvic tilts, or lower back pain, shoe lifts can provide temporary relief by adjusting leg height.
Benefit: Helps alleviate muscle imbalances and joint stress when used correctly.
They Don’t Address the Root Cause
Not all leg length discrepancies are anatomical—many are functional, due to muscle imbalances or spinal misalignment.
Consideration: A shoe lift may mask the underlying issue rather than fix it.
One Size Doesn’t Fit All
Over-the-counter lifts are often generic and may not fit your body properly.
Risk: Using the wrong lift can cause new issues, like knee or hip pain.
Best Used with Chiropractic Care
If misalignment is the root cause of the problem, chiropractic care can help address it while a lift may provide temporary relief.
Best Approach: Have your posture and spine assessed before using a shoe lift.
The Bottom Line
Shoe lifts can be helpful for leg length differences, but they aren’t a cure-all. Many cases of pain are linked to spinal or postural imbalances, not leg length.
At Miracle Life Chiropractic, we offer a holistic approach to your health. If you’re considering shoe lifts or dealing with chronic discomfort, we’ll assess the root cause and provide a personalised solution.
Curious if a shoe lift is right for you?
Book a posture and spinal assessment today, and we’ll help you find the solution that works for you.