If you or someone you care about has been told you have uneven legs, you’re not alone. Leg length discrepancy—often called LLD—is more common than most people realize. The good news is that shoe lifts for leg length discrepancy can be a simple, effective way to improve comfort and support better alignment. Whether you’re an adult dealing with hip or back discomfort or a parent looking for answers for your child, this guide covers everything you need to know.
Ready to explore your options? At Exclusive Shoe Lifts, our experienced team crafts custom shoe lifts for comfort and appearance. Every lift blends seamlessly into your footwear so only you know it’s there. Browse our custom shoe lifts →
What Is Leg Length Discrepancy?
Leg length discrepancy simply means one leg is shorter than the other. The difference can be very small—just a few millimeters—or more significant. A minor difference often goes unnoticed, but a larger discrepancy may affect how you walk, stand, and feel throughout the day.
Structural vs. Functional LLD
There are two main types of leg length discrepancy.
Structural LLD means there is an actual difference in bone length. This can result from genetics, a previous fracture, joint replacement surgery, or a growth-related condition in children.
Functional LLD occurs when the bones are roughly the same length, but muscle imbalances or postural habits make one side appear shorter.
Your healthcare provider can help determine which type you may have. Structural LLD is typically addressed with a shoe lift, while functional LLD may benefit from physical therapy or a combination approach.
Who Is Affected?
Both adults and children can have leg length discrepancy. In children, it may become noticeable during growth spurts. In adults, it can develop after surgery, injury, or degenerative joint changes. The key is to work with a qualified professional who can evaluate your situation.
Common LLD Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore
Many people live with a mild leg length discrepancy and never experience issues. However, when the difference is large enough, you may begin noticing symptoms that affect daily life.
Signs You Might Have LLD
- One hip feels higher than the other when standing
- Uneven shoe wear, especially on the heel or sole of one shoe
- Recurring discomfort in your lower back, hip, or knee on one side
- A feeling of leaning or tilting to one side when walking
- Fatigue or soreness in one leg after standing or walking
- Pant legs seem to fit unevenly
How LLD Affects Gait and Posture
When one leg is shorter, your body naturally tries to compensate. You might drop one hip, bend one knee more, or shift your weight to one side. Over time, these adjustments place extra stress on your joints and spine—which is why many people with LLD report hip, knee, and back pain.
These compensations can also affect your gait and posture in visible ways. A noticeable limp or uneven stride may develop, which is one reason many people seek out a shoe lift for both comfort and confidence.
How to Measure Leg Length Discrepancy
If you suspect you have uneven legs, you might be tempted to measure at home. While a rough home assessment can give you a general idea, accurate measurement requires a trained professional.
General Guidance for Home Assessment
Stand barefoot on a hard, level surface and have someone look at your hip bones from behind. If one side appears noticeably higher, there may be a discrepancy. Some people place thin boards under the shorter leg until the hips appear level, then measure the stack—but this is only a rough estimate.
Why Professional Measurement Matters
A clinician—such as an orthopedic specialist, physical therapist, or podiatrist—can determine both the type and amount of discrepancy using precise methods. Professional measurement ensures any lift you use is the right height. The wrong height can create new problems rather than solving existing ones.
Types of Shoe Lifts Explained
Not all shoe lifts are the same. The right type depends on how much correction is needed, your footwear, and your personal preference.
Lift Inside Shoe (Internal Lifts)
An internal lift is placed inside your shoe, either under the insole or as a replacement insole. A lift inside shoe is the most discreet option—no one can tell you’re wearing one. Internal lifts work well for smaller corrections, generally up to about 3/4 of an inch, depending on the shoe. They come in two main styles: heel lifts and full-length lifts.
External Shoe Lift
An external shoe lift involves adding material to the outside of the shoe’s sole by a skilled craftsman. External lifts are necessary when the discrepancy is too large for an internal lift—usually anything over 3/4 of an inch.
At Exclusive Shoe Lifts, our external modifications are crafted to be structurally sound and aesthetically pleasing. We make the modification blend into the shoe so that, to the untrained eye, it looks like a standard shoe.
Heel Lift vs Full-Length Lift
A heel lift raises only the back of the foot. It’s simple, affordable, and easy to transfer between shoes. However, above a certain height, a heel-only design can pitch the foot forward uncomfortably.
A full-length lift extends from heel to toe, providing even support across the entire foot. This tends to feel more natural and stable, especially at greater heights, and is generally recommended for everyday use.
Comparison Table: Heel Lift vs Full-Length Lift vs External Lift
| Feature | Heel Lift | Full-Length Lift | External Lift |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Small corrections (under 1/4″) | Moderate corrections (1/4″–3/4″) | Larger corrections (3/4″ and above) |
| Pros | Low cost; easy to swap between shoes; widely available | Even support; more natural feel; better for extended wear | Handles significant discrepancies; no foot crowding inside shoe |
| Cons | Can pitch foot forward at higher heights; less stable | Requires adequate shoe depth; may not fit all footwear | Visible modification; must be done by a skilled craftsman; shoe-specific |
| Typical lift range | 1/8″ to 1/4″ | 1/4″ to 3/4″ | 3/4″ to 2″+ |
| Notes | Good starting point for mild LLD | Often recommended by clinicians for daily wear | Custom work ensures structural integrity and a natural look |
Not sure which type is right for you? Give us a call or send an email—customer service is a priority at Exclusive Shoe Lifts, and we’re happy to talk through your options. Contact us today →
How to Choose the Right Shoe Lift
Choosing the right lift doesn’t have to be complicated. Follow these steps to get started.
- Get a professional assessment. Before purchasing any lift, have your leg length discrepancy measured by a qualified clinician. This gives you a clear starting point.
- Understand your prescribed lift height. Your provider may recommend a specific lift height. Keep this number handy—it guides every decision that follows.
- Decide between internal and external. If your correction is under 3/4″, an internal lift may work well. For larger corrections, an external modification is usually the better choice.
- Consider your footwear. Sneakers and boots offer more room for internal lifts, while dress shoes may require external modifications.
- Start gradually. Begin with a slightly lower height and increase over a few weeks to give your body time to adjust.
- Choose quality craftsmanship. A well-made lift should be structurally sound and built to last. At Exclusive Shoe Lifts, our staff meets the qualifications needed to deliver this level of craftsmanship.
- Reach out with questions. A good shoe lift company will take time to understand your needs and guide you through the process.
Shoe Compatibility: What Works and What Doesn’t
One concern we hear often is, “Will a shoe lift work with my favorite shoes?” It depends on the shoe type and the amount of lift needed.
Sneakers and Athletic Shoes
Most sneakers have removable insoles and enough interior volume for a full-length internal lift. They’re also a great choice for external modifications because the sole material bonds well and the casual design helps the modification blend in.
Dress Shoes and Loafers
Dress shoes tend to have less interior room, which limits internal lift height. For small corrections, a thin heel lift may work. For larger corrections, an external modification—done with attention to aesthetics—allows you to keep wearing your favorite dress shoes comfortably.
Boots
Boots, especially work boots and hiking boots, offer the most room and provide extra ankle support. Both internal and external lifts tend to work well with boots.
Safety, Sizing, and Break-In Tips
Getting the right fit and allowing time to adjust are critical to a positive experience.
Why Gradual Increase Matters
It might seem logical to jump straight to the full prescribed height, but your muscles, joints, and balance need time to adapt. Going too high too fast can cause new discomfort—essentially trading one problem for another. Most providers recommend starting at about half the target height and increasing in small increments every one to two weeks.
Proper Fit Is Non-Negotiable
A lift that’s too thick can crowd your foot, cause blisters, or push your heel out of the shoe. A lift that slides around is a tripping hazard. This is why custom shoe lifts—made to match the exact dimensions of your footwear—are often worth the investment. At Exclusive Shoe Lifts, we’re committed to your satisfaction and work closely with each customer to ensure the fit is right.
Care and Break-In
Taking care of your lift extends its life and keeps it performing well.
- Break-in period: Wear your new lift a few hours a day at first, increasing to full-day wear over one to two weeks.
- Cleaning: Wipe internal lifts with a damp cloth periodically. Avoid submerging in water.
- Inspection: Check regularly for compression or wear. A worn lift may lose effective height and need replacing.
- Storage: Keep the lift inside the shoe or in a dry, cool place. Avoid direct sunlight or extreme heat.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shoe Lifts for Leg Length Discrepancy
What is the most common reason people need a shoe lift?
The most common reasons include a structural leg length discrepancy from birth, a previous fracture that healed with slight shortening, or a difference after joint replacement surgery. A clinician can help identify the cause.
Can children wear shoe lifts?
Yes. Children with a noticeable leg length discrepancy may benefit from a properly fitted lift. Because children are still growing, have the discrepancy monitored by a provider and update the lift as needed.
How long does it take to adjust to wearing a shoe lift?
Most people feel comfortable within one to two weeks. Starting lower and gradually increasing helps your body adapt. If persistent pain continues after break-in, consult your provider.
Do I need a prescription to buy a shoe lift?
No prescription is required. However, we recommend having your leg length measured by a professional before ordering so you get the right height and type.
Will people notice I’m wearing a shoe lift?
Internal lifts are completely hidden. For external lifts, quality craftsmanship makes a significant difference. At Exclusive Shoe Lifts, we build external modifications to blend with the shoe’s design.
Can a shoe lift help with back pain?
A shoe lift for back pain related to leg length discrepancy may help by improving alignment and reducing compensations your body makes to stay balanced. Many customers report relief after beginning to use a properly fitted lift. However, back pain can have many causes, so consult a healthcare professional to determine whether LLD is a contributing factor.
Finding Confidence and Comfort with the Right Shoe Lift
Living with a leg length discrepancy doesn’t have to mean living with discomfort. The right shoe lifts for leg length discrepancy—whether a simple internal insert or a carefully crafted external modification—can make a meaningful difference in how you feel and move every day. Start with a professional assessment, choose quality craftsmanship, and give your body time to adjust.
At Exclusive Shoe Lifts, we offer custom shoe lifts that are structurally sound, aesthetically refined, and backed by a team that cares about your satisfaction. Reach out to us today and let us help you find the right fit.
