Understanding Leg Length Discrepancy & Heel Inserts
Dealing with a leg length discrepancy (LLD)? While heel inserts may seem like a quick fix, they can lead to more problems by creating an uneven gait. Discover why heel inserts can disrupt your walking mechanics and cause further imbalances in your body.
SHOE LIFTSWHAT TO AVOID
1. Unbalanced Movements
Heel inserts only address part of the issue by lifting your heel, not your entire foot. This creates an uneven gait, with one leg moving differently than the other. Over time, this imbalance can lead to awkward movements, throwing off your natural walking or running mechanics.
Essentially, heel inserts cause more compensation in other parts of your body, making the situation worse. If you want to find balance for your leg length discrepancy, a shoe lift is what will bring you that balance and stability.
2. Bad for Your Hips and Mobility
Using heel inserts often leads to bad posture, which directly impacts your hips. Your hips will shift unnaturally, causing strain and discomfort. In the long term, this can lead to joint pain and reduced mobility, making everyday activities like walking or standing more uncomfortable than they need to be. What you should be looking for is to have the same stable platform for each foot.
3. It’s Gonna Make You Funky
Let’s face it—heel inserts make your body feel off. Instead of addressing the full LLD, you’re essentially creating an even bigger imbalance. You’ll move awkwardly, feel funky, and your body will have to compensate in unhealthy ways.
I tried heel inserts, and trust me, they're no good. Sure, for a wedding or something formal like that, a heel lift could get you through it. However, in your day to day life, a shoe lift will help you maintain proper alignment and live pain-free.
Visit American Heelers at orthopedicshoelift.com or a local cobbler to find the balance you've been looking for.