Chronic low back pain, limb length discrepancy and Shoe Heel Lifts

In shoe heel lifts have been shown to decrease pain and disability in patients with limb length discrepancy who also have chronic low back pain. In a study from Durham VA Medical Center, they wanted to study the effect of heel lifts (shoe lifts) on chronic low back pain patients with limb length inequality. Previous studies have shown that a short leg may be the cause of chronic low back pain.
In their study, 12 patients with limb length discrepancy and chronic low back pain were given an in shoe heel lift. The results revealed reductions of general pain for 9 of 12 patients who wore the shoe lifts. Patients also had less disability 9 of 12.

In conclusion, shoe heel lifts may reduce low back pain and improve function for patients who have chronic low back pain and limb length discrepancy. So measure and evaluate limb length in all your chronic low back patients. A simple heel lift can make a huge difference.

Atlas Biomechanics is a leader on the production of US heel lifts. Our in shoe lifts come in 3 mm, 6 mm, and 9 mm heel lift heights.
by

Teri Green
Atlas Biomechanics