AliMed has a variety of heel lifts, pads, wedges, and evaluation tools
to measure and treat leg-length discrepancies, temporary discrepancies when wearing a walking cast or boot, and other conditions, such as pelvic obliquity, plantar fasciitis, and Achilles tendonitis. Choose from a range of materials and thicknesses for an effective solution that best fits your patients’ needs.
Choosing a Lift
Heel lifts can be used for more than just correcting leg-length discrepancy. Used in rehabilitation, heel lifts raise the heel for lower-limb swing-through and improved gait. Used bilaterally, heel lifts can help relieve stretch and strain on the Achilles tendon and calf musculature in conditions such as Achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, or heel spurs. The following are recommendations for matching the correct heel lift to the needs of your patients.
Leg-length correction
A measurable leg-length difference can have negative effects on the lower back, sacroiliac joint, hips, knees, lower leg, or feet, often a result of the body compensating for the leg-length difference. These effects are often further exacerbated during physical activities that involve running, where proper alignment and balance are critical to performance. A relatively
firm, incompressible wedge is recommended for everyday use. A
shock-absorbing model will help improve patient comfort. For use during sports, a
firm lift is required. The lift should not compress or cause additional foot motion in the shoe. Soft lifts are not recommended as they can easily result in loss of control and stability at the ankle, leading to sprains or falls.
Rehabilitation
Correction or adjustment of leg length can also assist in therapy after amputation, stroke, hip or knee replacement, fractures, or ankle equinus.
Firm, adjustable heel lifts are ideal, allowing quick, easy, toolfree adjustments. Lifts placed in the shoe on the affected side can help correct a discrepancy. Lifts placed in the shoe on the unaffected side can help with foot clearance during the swing-through phase of gait.
Achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, and heel spurs
The goal here is to decrease strain and stress on the Achilles tendon and calf musculature. Lifts should always be used in both shoes to maintain balance and alignment and to avoid knee, hip, or back pain.
Adjustable heel lifts often work best because the height can gradually be reduced as the condition improves without requiring multiple height lifts.
Shock-absorbing
models can also help relieve related discomfort in the heel area.
What type of Heel Lifts are you looking for?
For more information on Heel Lifts, click here.
