Some customers come to us with a precise measurement from a doctor, chiropractor, podiatrist, or physical therapist. Others come knowing something feels uneven, but they are still trying to figure out the amount of correction that works best for them.

This page explains some of the ways people may arrive at a shoe lift measurement, and why real-world comfort matters as much as the number itself.

Who can measure leg length discrepancy?

There are several kinds of professionals who may help measure a leg length difference or leg length discrepancy. Depending on the person and the situation, that may include:

  • Chiropractors
  • Podiatrists
  • Physicians
  • Physical therapists
  • Orthopedic specialists

Some use standing evaluation. Some use imaging such as X-rays. Some may use both. Over the years, we have spoken with a number of customers who said different chiropractors in different cities independently came up with the same measurement after evaluating them.

What some chiropractors do

I know that some chiropractors will take X-rays, measure from them, and then verify the result with standing evaluation tools that look something like scales or balance platforms. That combination can give people more confidence in the number, especially when they have been dealing with pain or uneven walking for a long time.

What if you already know there is a difference, but not how much?

Over the years, we have had a number of people who were pretty sure one leg was shorter than the other, but they did not know the amount of lift they needed.

A few figured it out on their own by standing on a stack of books, or other thin, firm material, and gradually adjusting until they felt more level. That is not the same as a medical diagnosis, but in some cases it helped them get closer to the amount that seemed to work.

A story from the shop

Years ago, a customer came into the shop very frustrated.

“I’ve asked a number of professionals how much of a lift I need. A few have given me different numbers, and I’ve tried them, and it’s just not working.”

I asked him, “If you just stand on something, like a phone book, do you think you would be able to tell?” He said he thought so, so I got out a phone book and we tried it out.

We had him stand on it, then walk around a bit, then try it again. We repeated that a few times. By doing that, we found a number that he felt was working well for him.

Then I added that lift to his shoe, and he said it worked very well. We continued using that same measurement for him for many years after that, until he passed about 15 years later.

That experience stayed with me. It reminded me that the right correction is not always just a number on paper. It also has to work for the person wearing the shoe.

Can you estimate a shoe lift height on your own?

In some cases, people can get a rough sense of what works by using a practical trial-and-feedback method. The idea is simple:

  • Start with a small amount of height
  • Stand naturally
  • Walk around a little
  • Pay attention to balance and comfort
  • Adjust gradually until the height feels closer to right

Again, this is not a substitute for medical evaluation. But in the real world, some people can tell when they feel more level, more natural, and more comfortable.

Why comfort matters

A person may receive a number from a measurement, but the body still has to live with that correction. That is why walking comfort, balance, and how the person feels can matter so much. The best lift is not only measured. It also needs to function well in everyday life.

So what is the best way to find out how much shoe lift you need?

If you already have a trusted measurement from a chiropractor, podiatrist, physician, or therapist, that is often the best place to start.

If you do not yet know the amount, professional evaluation can be very helpful. And in some situations, a practical standing-and-walking trial may help you understand what feels closer to correct.

The important thing is to arrive at a lift that helps you feel more level, more comfortable, and better balanced.

Need a custom shoe lift?

We have completed tens of thousands of shoe lifts over many years for customers all over the USA. If you already know the measurement you want, or if you are ready to send in your shoes, visit our main shoe lifts page to get started.

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Note: This page is general information based on years of experience with shoe lifts. It is not intended to diagnose a medical condition.