Heel Lifts for Leg Length Discrepancy – The Best Solution to Kids’ Leg Length Discrepancy
Has your child been diagnosed with a leg length discrepancy and your therapist recommended heel lifts—but didn’t specify which kind or what shoes to use? While the diagnosis may sound serious, the solution can often be simple. The right heel lifts, paired with supportive shoes, can make a big difference in correcting alignment, improving posture, and reducing discomfort. I’ll walk you through how heel lifts can help correct leg length discrepancies in children, which shoes work best with them, and why taking action now—rather than waiting—can help prevent long-term complications and support your child’s healthy development.
About Leg Length Discrepancy
Leg length discrepancy occurs when one leg is shorter than the other, a condition that can impact a child’s daily activities and overall quality of life. This discrepancy can lead to various issues, including gait problems, back pain, and difficulty in participating in physical activities. The greater the discrepancy between the legs, the more problems this can cause.
My Experience Fitting Children’s Shoes and Heel Lifts
You might be wondering—what can a shoe fitter possibly know about leg length discrepancy? The truth is, I’ve helped many children who come into the shoe store where I work, specifically looking for solutions. With hands-on experience fitting shoes and heel lifts for kids with leg length differences, I’ve seen firsthand how the right combination can improve balance, posture, and comfort.
In many cases, doctors will recommend a specific heel lift—but sometimes, it’s up to parents to find one on their own, which can lead to a lot of confusion and frustration. With so many options out there, it’s not always clear which heel lift is best or how to pair it with the right shoes.
Conservative Treatments for Leg Length Discrepancy
Depending on the discrepancy between your kids’ leg lengths, your pediatrician will discuss treatment options carefully with you before any decisions are made. While I am not a doctor, I have learned that no treatment is generally required if your kid’s final leg length discrepancy is less than 2 centimeters at full height. However, if the discrepancy is more than 2 centimeters (0.8 inches), doctors might require surgery to shorten the longer leg or to lengthen the shorter leg.
Obviously, the heel lift option is the most convenient and economical one, and it is not nearly as invasive. Something as simple as wearing the correct pair of shoes with a pair of heels lifts might be all that your child needs.
Heel Lifts for Leg Length Discrepancy
Heel lifts offer a non-invasive and effective solution for managing leg length discrepancies in children. They work by compensating for the difference in leg length, helping to balance posture and improve overall alignment.
- Order the Dr.Foot Heel Lifts on Amazon
- Firm in-compressible heel lifts are the most effective ones when it comes to treating leg length discrepancy in kids
- Choose the smaller size and select a half-inch or one-inch increase
- Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you
I highly recommend checking in with your child’s healthcare provider for personalized guidance. They can offer expert advice and recommend the most effective heel lift based on your child’s specific needs, ensuring the best possible results.
Don’t Take the “Wait and See Approach” – Be Proactive!
When it comes to your child’s foot health, being proactive is key—I always advise parents not to take the “wait and see” approach. Ignoring conditions like leg length discrepancy can allow the problem to worsen over time. Left untreated, it can lead to knee, hip, or even lower back pain as your child grows. Taking early action can make a big difference in their comfort, posture, and long-term well-being.
What Are Some of the Causes for Leg Length Discrepancy in Kids?
Several factors can lead to a difference in leg length in children. Some of the most common causes include:
- Injuries or infections that slow down the growth of one leg bone.
- Damage to a growth plate, which can disrupt normal bone development.
- Fractures that lead to overgrowth as the bone heals, making one leg longer.
- Genetic or hereditary conditions that affect bone structure.
- Neuromuscular disorders, like polio, that impact muscle and nerve function.
The Importance of Getting the Correct Type of Shoes
It’s important to remember that even the best heel lifts won’t work as intended if they’re not paired with the right shoes. Without proper support, the lifts can shift around or make your child feel like their feet are slipping out of the shoes. That’s why you need footwear with two key features: extra depth to accommodate the lift comfortably, and a firm heel counter to keep the foot stable and properly aligned.
The Best Fitting Shoes for Heel Lifts – Deep and Supportive
With the right shoes, heel lifts can make a world of difference—giving your child a more comfortable, stable, and confident experience while walking and running.
1. Shoe Style 990v6 by New Balance is the Best Kids’ Shoe for Orthotics
These are the best shoes for heel lifts and parents consistently praise the 990v6 for its durability, comfort, and support, noting improvements in their children’s posture and gait. The downside that many parents complain about is the high price tag.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers, little, and big kids.
- You can order the 990v6 with laces on the New Balance website, Amazon, or Zappos.
- Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths.
- Also available in pink and navy blue.
- There is also a Velcro version of these shoes available in navy blue and pink.
- ENCAP midsole technology provides excellent support and durability.
- I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size.
2. Shoe Style Gabi by Memo (Orthopedic Shoe)
These orthopedic shoes for heel lifts are specifically designed to improve foot posture. The higher price point is a common complaint parents have but the investment in orthopedic shoes is often justified by their specialized design and effectiveness in addressing foot conditions.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers and little kids.
- You can order the shoe style Gabi by Memo on Amazon.
- Fits medium and wide feet.
- Also available in a Mary Jane style and a version for older kids called Memo Polo.
- Reinforced heel counter helps maintain correct foot positioning, essential for effective orthotic function.
- I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size.
3. Shoe Style Elliott by Stride Rite
These high-top booties by Stride Rite offer excellent support and a comfortable fit, making them a top choice for kids who wear heel lifts.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers.
- You can order the shoe style SRT Elliot by Stride Rite on Amazon or Zappos.
- Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths.
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size.
4. Shoe style 574 by New Balance
This New Balance shoe combines style with functionality and it offers solid support and cushioning, making it suitable for kids who wear heel lifts The shoe is offered at a lower price point.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers, little, and big kids.
- Order the shoe style 574 New-b V1 by New Balance on Amazon or the New Balance website.
- Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths.
- Also available with laces on the New Balance website, Amazon, and Zappos.
- I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your toddler’s current foot size.
5. Shoe Style Tracks by Timberland
The sturdy design ensures that children can enjoy outdoor activities without compromising on foot stability or comfort, but this style is slightly heavier than my other shoe recommendations.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers and little kids.
- Order the shoe style Tracks by Timberland on Zappos or Amazon.
- Fits medium and wide feet.
- Water-friendly
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size.
6. Shoe Style Cohesion by Saucony
These shoes for heel lifts offer excellent cushioning and stability. The affordable pricing also makes them accessible to a wide range of families.
Key Features
- Available for little and big kids.
- Order the shoe style Cohesion KDZ on Zappos or Amazon.
- Available in medium and wide widths.
- Also available with laces on Zappos and Amazon.
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size.
7. Shoe Style Fresh Foam Arishi v4 by New Balance
This is a versatile shoe that provides a soft and comfortable fit while accommodating your child’s heel lifts. Families appreciate how this shoe is offered at a very reasonable price.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers, little, and big kids.
- Order the shoe style Fresh Foam 650 by New Balance on the New Balance website or Amazon.
- Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths.
- Also available with laces on Zappos and Amazon.
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size.
8. Shoe Style 2002 by New Balance
The 2002 model by New Balance is another great option for kids who wear heel lifts at a more affordable price point than the 990v6.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers, little, and big kids.
- Order the shoe style 2002 by New Balance on the New Balance website.
- Available in medium and wide widths.
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size.
9. Shoe Style Cross Em Up by Adidas
These high-top shoes for heel lifts provide great support and are suitable for both sports and everyday wear, adding value for parents looking for multi-functional footwear.
Key Features
- Available for little and big kids.
- Order the shoe style Cross Em Up Select by Adidas on Zappos or Amazon.
- Available in medium and wide widths.
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size.
10. Fresh Foam 650 by New Balance
These deep shoes feature a wide toe box and plush cushioning, making them perfect for everyday wear. Parents often highlight the shoe’s ability to maintain its shape and support even after prolonged use, underscoring its durability.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers, little, and big kids.
- Order the shoe style 650 by New Balance on the New Balance website or Zappos.
- Available in medium and wide widths.
- Also available with laces on Zappos and Amazon.
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size.
Reach Out with Any Questions
As a passionate shoe fitter, I’m here to help you find the best solutions for your child’s foot health. If you have any questions or need specific shoe recommendations, please feel free to reach out. If you tell me your child’s exact leg length discrepancy, I can provide you with more specific recommendations.
How to Tie Shoes to Secure Your Child’s Heels and Prevent Heel Slippage
If your child is wearing lace-up shoes, it’s important to make sure the laces are snug—without being too tight. Since heel lifts already raise the foot inside the shoe, loose laces can lead to unwanted heel slippage and discomfort. Proper lacing helps lock the foot in place and ensures the heel lift works as intended.
Prevent Long-Term Problems by Taking Early Action – Good Shoes and Lifts!
If your child has been diagnosed with leg length discrepancy, there’s no need to worry—they can still play, run, and enjoy life just like other kids. But it’s important to keep in mind that if the difference is more than 2 centimeters and left untreated, it could lead to hip, back, and knee pain down the road as they grow. Early treatment can help prevent these issues and keep your child moving comfortably.
Heel lifts offer a practical and effective solution for addressing leg length discrepancies in children. With the right approach and footwear, you can help your child achieve better balance, comfort, and overall foot health. Remember, the early years are golden opportunities for treatment, so don’t hesitate to take action.
As parents watch their children grow and begin to crawl, a discrepancy in leg length will usually become more obvious. If you believe or suspect that your child has a leg length discrepancy, you should take your child to be evaluated by your pediatrician or physical therapist.
My daughter is 6 currently appointed to a specialist recently got a 1 cm shoe raise what best shoe and shoe raise could you recommend an how do I go about a house hold foot raise
Hi Vanessa,
I am going to need further information in order to help you find the correct pair of shoes. I am going to need your daughter’s foot size, and whether she has narrow, medium, wide, or extra wide feet.
I suggest that you send me that information via email: fittingchildrensshoes@gmail.com and then I would be able to send you specific shoe recommendations. If you can I also recommend that you include a picture of the shoe raise.
Hi. My son was involved in an accident and was on a spica cast for 2 and a hslf months… Doc did not do sufficient follow-up. His femur fracture was set skew and he now has a 3cm leg discrepancy. We received our shoe with the heel lift stuck on the shoes. How long does he wear it for and how do we monitor growth… No instructions have been given to us. My son is 4 years old
Hi Seema,
I believe that the condition is not going to get corrected on its own. You can treat it by keep wearing the shoes with the lift and monitor your son for any foot or leg pain.
This is a situation in which you would have to consult with your doctor. Because your son’s difference is more than 1 inch (2.5 cm), you should consult with your doctor is surgery might help.
For my toddler who is 1.5 years old with a shoe size of EU 27 and who has a leg length discrepancy of 3 cm, which shoe can accommodate a 3 cm heel lift inside?
Hello San,
We need to look for a shoe that provides extra depth. If your child has medium, wide, or extra wide feet, you can find below my recommendations:
Option 1
Option 2
If your child happens to have narrow feet please let me know and I will send you different recommendations.
I hope this helps!
Hello juan,my son had a hip infussion about 3 months ago.and the leg discrepancy is 3 1/4 inches.And they want us to get a heel lift for him.but is so expensive plus how many shoes are you gonna do the lift on.is just too much money and heart breaking dont know what to do.can we get an over the counter shoe lift for him.plus can it work.he is 12 years old and so miserable right now.
Hello Ifunanya,
That is a question you should have asked the doctor. I always recommend trying the least expensive option first and monitoring how it works. Maybe a heel lift with a good supportive shoe is all what your child needs but we won’t know until you try it. Ask the doctor if you can start with a heel lift first. They definitely do work, but it varies from child to child.
Please follow up with me and let me know what they tell you.
Hello Juan,
Thank you for the article. My 5 years daughter has this discrepancy 0.5 cm. The first doctor which we visited, told us that is ok and she have only to wear sandals with height and hard heel, the second doctor told us to put the lift 0.5 cm in the left shoe (left leg is shorter). As I read, discrepancy less than 2 cm no need a treatment. I am confused now. I don’t know how to proceed. If we will buy this lift for one shoe, have she wear this all day? Thank you in advance.
Hello Elena,
I am not a doctor, so you should do what they recommend. Is she experiencing any type of foot or leg pain? If she is not, I wouldn’t worry about it too much since the difference is so little.
If she is having foot or leg pain then definitely try a lift in her shoes. If you do buy a lift for her shoe the more she wears it the better.
When it comes to sandals, try Keen sandals, they have a very hard and sturdy sole. You can learn more about them here:
Keen Sandals For Children – The Best Summer Sandal
My daughter has a 31mm difference and we’ve been recommended to have special lifts made on the outside of the shoe (very costly and noticeable). Would you recommend a lift fitting on the inside of a shoe for this much of a discrepancy? And any recommendations for summer shoes as well?
Hello Hallie,
In this particular case the discrepancy is more than 2 centimeters, and that’s when doctors might require either surgery or a heel lift. Obviously the heel lift option is the most convenient and economical one, and it is not nearly as invasive.
You should have asked the doctor if you could start with an over the counter heel lift and see how your daughter reacts to it instead of investing right away in a pair of special lifts.
great post ! thank you.
can i fit a one-inch feet lift inside the shoes you are recommending above?
also, what would be the best to wear inside the house e.g. slippers.
regards
Hatim,
Yes, but don´t forget to remove the inner sole and choose one of the New Balance styles, since they are deeper than the Saucony ones. You need to speak to whoever recommended the heel lifts and ask if your child can wear something else besides his/her sneakers around the house. If they say yes, take a look at this psot where I describe the best slippers for kids:
Supportive Slippers for Kids – These are the Best Slippers for Kids with Foot Problems
The link you included takes me to adult sided inserts which will not fit my child’s shoes. Also, the fact that this company only offers one size (2cm) lift is concerning since anyone underwing this serious issue will understand how individual the lift should be
Hi Lisa,
Thank you for your feedback. Please carefully review the heel lifts recommended as a woman’s shoe size 4 translates to a child’s shoe size 2. If your child wears a shoe size smaller than a size 2 do not hesitate to contact me directly and I will find you an alternative: fittingchildrensshoes@gmail.com
Leg length discrepancy is not necessarily a serious issue as long as the discrepancy is less than 2 centimeters (0.8 inches) at full height. In this case no treatment is required, but if your child is experiencing foot or leg pain due to the discrepancy, then surgeons often recommend a heel lift as an alternative to a surgical approach.
Unfortunately there are no many heel lifts available for children. One alternative is to buy your child a shoe lift, which will allow you to choose a more precise size, but it can cost you around $100. I usually don’t recommend this alternative as children can outgrow their shoes anywhere between 4 to 6 months (depending on their age).
I can see that its so important to act quickly and appropriately if your child has a leg length discrepancy to prevent too much pressure causing damage which may stay with the child for life if it isn’t dealt with quickly.
Its amazing really that just from using heel lifts a lot of pain and issues can be avoided. Thank you for this information. Very informative.
Jen,
Taking immediate action is key in order to prevent future injuries and pain. A simple and inexpensive thing WILL prevent problems when the child gets older!
Hi Juan
But isn’t it better to buy heel lifts at some physical stores? I think it would be the best to physically place the lift inside the shoe to see if it fits the shoe. In order to solve the problem, the lift has to fit the shoe perfectly, hasn’t it? I checked few of the review on Amazon for these heel lifts and while some customers find these heel lifts perfect, some others state that these appear to be too narrow for the certain shoe. So ordering online is a bit risky, isn’t it? As this is very serious problem for kids so we cannot do something wrong. At least, this is my point of view.
Arta,
I always recommend to parents to take their children to their local children’s shoe store to have their feet properly measured. The same applies to when they are looking for heel lifts. However, not every parent has a local kids’ shoe store that they trust. I have received hundreds of emails from parents asking me to review a certain shoe or to show which shoes are better than others.
Big retail stores such as Stride Rite or Nordstrom’s don’t qualify as fitting stores. They don’t even carry heel lifts. I always advise to parents to stay away from these stores since in order to make a sale, they will put your child in the wrong pair of shoes. I wrote a post about it that you might find interesting, it’s called: The Best Place To Buy Kids Shoes – Avoid Stride Rite, Nordstrom, Payless…
I didn’t know this was such an issue.I know my child has leg length discrepancy but the doctor told us he was okay for now and we shouldn’t worry about it. We are worried because he is walking funny lately. Is this something that kids can grow out of? Will one leg catch up to the other?
I can certainly see the problems this can create, with balance, and how it can effect other parts of the body. Our bodies are designed to be aligned a certain way. I am afraid my kids’ feet and legs are hurting him and he is not saying anything.
You should definitely provide your child with a heel lift or an orthotic to compensate for the discrepancy. I recommend that you get a second opinion immediately, to make sure your kids’ feet and legs are doing okay. I have fitted several children with heel lifts and they make a tremendous difference in the way they walk!
My daughter sometimes complains about her feet hurting, but she’s two so I really didn’t pay it any attention at first. I mentioned it to her pediatrician, and nothing came of it. And it doesn’t appear that she has leg length discrepancy at this time. I will continue to monitor the situation as she grows, and should she need something, I now know where to find it!
Christian,
Keep an eye on your daughter’s foot and leg pain. It is NEVER normal for children to experience foot or leg pain. If the pain persists, definitely take her to another pediatrician and get a second opinion! Also, please make sure she is wearing the correct pair of shoes. By this, I mean shoes that are good and supprtive, and they must be the correct size for her feet.
My child’s friend has leg length discrepancy and she had no idea what to do about it. Her doctor told her to leave it alone since the discrepancy was not enough to worry. However, her child is complaining about leg pain now. I will show her this article. Great review and great list of products to help with this issue.
If the child is experiencing pain, something must be done as soon as possible. Good shoes and lift will take care of the pain issue. Please let her know that the pain can be removed by wearing the correct pair of shoes with a pair of heel lifts.