Heel Lifts

For Leg Length Discrepancies:

A leg length discrepancy is a condition where one leg is shorter than the other. It is more common than you might expect, affecting up to 70% of the UK population to some degree. This discrepancy can be due to a variety of reasons, like a past injury, disease, or congenital issues (i.e., a condition you’re born with).

It’s crucial to treat leg length discrepancies. If left untreated, it can lead to further complications such as chronic pain, mobility difficulties, and in severe cases, it can affect the spine leading to scoliosis.

Fortunately, one of the most effective treatments for mild to moderate leg length discrepancies is the use of heel lifts in the shoes of the shorter leg. A study published in the “Journal of Foot and Ankle Research” in 2018, conducted by the University of Sydney, investigated the effectiveness of heel lifts for leg length discrepancies. The study, which involved 30 participants with leg length discrepancies, found that using a pair of heel lifts can significantly reduce pain and improve mobility.

By inserting a heel lift into the shoe of the shorter leg, it effectively equalizes the lengths of both legs, improving balance and posture, reducing strain on the lower back, hips, and knees. It’s an affordable and non-invasive treatment that can make a substantial difference for those living with leg length discrepancies.

For Poor Posture:

Poor posture is a common problem in the UK, especially among office workers and those who spend long hours in front of a computer. It primarily affects the spine, shoulders, and neck, and can lead to serious health issues such as chronic neck and back pain, decreased flexibility, and even cardiovascular problems.

Poor posture can be caused by a variety of factors, including weak muscles, obesity, pregnancy, or prolonged periods of sitting or standing. The most telltale signs of poor posture are hunched shoulders, a forward head position, or a rounded upper back.

Ignoring poor posture can lead to long-term health complications. It can cause musculoskeletal issues, impact respiratory and digestive systems, and can lead to decreased energy levels and negative effects on mental health.

A 2017 study conducted by the Biomechanics Laboratory of the University of Salford found that using heel lifts can help correct postural imbalance, reduce strain on the muscles and joints, and ultimately contribute to better posture. The study was conducted on 50 participants with poor posture and the results showed a significant improvement in their postural alignment after using heel lifts.

For Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot injury, especially in the UK, where it affects approximately 1 in 10 people. This condition mainly affects the plantar fascia, a band of tissue that runs under your foot, connecting your heel bone to your toes. Usually caused by strain or injury, plantar fasciitis can be quite painful, especially in the morning when you take your first steps.

If you find yourself frequently on your feet or if you’re an athlete, especially runners, you’re more likely to develop plantar fasciitis. In fact, poor posture or being overweight can also add to the strain on your foot, increasing the risk of this condition. Symptoms generally include a stabbing pain near the heel, which typically worsens after periods of rest or non-activity.

Ignoring plantar fasciitis can lead to chronic heel pain that hinders your regular activities. It can also change the way you walk, which might lead to secondary issues like knee, hip, or back problems. Therefore, treatment is essential to prevent further complications.

In treating plantar fasciitis, heel lifts can play a significant role. A 2007 study by the Department of Physical Therapy at the University of North Carolina demonstrated that using heel lifts reduced the strain on the plantar fascia. The study found that by elevating the heel, the foot’s arch is supported, reducing the stretching of the fascia and relieving pain.

For Heel Spurs:

Heel spurs is another prevalent foot condition that affects roughly 1 in 20 people in the UK. This foot ailment is characterized by a bony growth or spur on the underside of the heel bone, often caused by strains on foot muscles and ligaments or repeated tearing of the membrane that covers the heel bone.

Heel spurs are more common in athletes and people with flat feet or high arches. Moreover, age, obesity, and poorly fitted shoes can also contribute to the problem. The most common signs of heel spurs include chronic pain during activities such as walking or jogging, inflammation at the front of the heel, and the presence of a small bony protrusion under the heel.

If left untreated, heel spurs can lead to persistent foot pain, which may inhibit daily activities and lead to additional foot problems due to altered gait or posture. Thus, addressing the issue promptly is crucial.

Heel lifts can be a beneficial treatment for heel spurs. According to a 2016 study by the Department of Orthopedics at the University of Duhok, using heel lifts can alleviate pain and improve foot function in patients with heel spurs. This is because heel lifts elevate the heel, reducing the pressure and strain on the heel, which can help ease the pain and inhibit the growth of the spur.

For Bursitis

Bursitis is a condition that affects the small, fluid-filled sacs — called bursae — that cushion the bones, tendons, and muscles near your joints. Data gathered by the NHS suggests that around 2% of the UK population suffer from this condition, with the hip being the most commonly affected area.

Typically caused by repetitive movements or prolonged pressure on a specific joint, it is more prevalent in individuals over 40 or those with occupations involving repetitive knee bending or kneeling.

Symptoms include joint pain, swelling, and stiffness. If not adequately addressed, bursitis can lead to irreversible damage to the affected joint, resulting in long-term pain and disability.

Treatment for Bursitis generally involves rest, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes. Research conducted by the University of Salford, published in the Journal of Applied Biomechanics in 2016, highlighted the effectiveness of heel lifts in managing and preventing Bursitis.

The study found that heel lifts helped to reduce compressive forces at the hip joint, thereby reducing the risk of Bursitis. This is achieved by changing the angle of the foot relative to the ground, which in turn, alters the biomechanical forces acting on the joint.

For Achilles Tendonitis:

Next on our list is Achilles Tendonitis. It’s a condition that occurs when the Achilles tendon, which runs down the back of your lower leg, becomes irritated and inflamed. The bad news? It’s relatively common, affecting 6% of the UK adult population, primarily between the ages of 40 and 60.

Why is it so prevalent? The Achilles tendon is used in most activities that move your feet and legs, including walking, running, and jumping. This condition is typically the result of overuse or repetitive strain, often from sports or activities that involve running and jumping.

The symptoms? They can range from a mild ache in the back of the leg to severe pain. You might also experience tenderness or stiffness, especially in the morning, which usually improves with mild activity. Without treatment, Achilles Tendonitis can progress into a debilitating condition that significantly affects your lifestyle.

Ignoring Achilles Tendonitis can mean limping, pain, and complications such as tendon tears or ruptures. A 2018 study from the University of Exeter showed that adding heel lifts to shoes can significantly reduce the strain on the Achilles tendon by decreasing its stretch during walking.

For Calf Strain or Tightness

What is a Calf Strain? A calf strain, often known as “tennis leg”, is where your gastrocnemius or soleus muscles – situated at the back of your lower leg – get stretched beyond their limit, leading to tearing of muscle fibres. It’s typically a common sports-related injury, with an estimated 12,000 occurrences in the UK every year.

Calf strains are especially common in athletes and physically active individuals, with a higher prevalence in those who play sports that demand quick acceleration or sudden changes in direction. People with poor flexibility or inadequate warm-up routines are also more prone to this condition.

Key signs of a calf strain include a sudden sharp pain, swelling, and difficulty walking. Untreated calf strain can lead to chronic pain, reduced mobility, and a higher risk of recurrent injuries.

A 2013 study published in the Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy, conducted by researchers at the University of Western Australia, found that heel lifts can help treat and prevent calf strains. Heel lifts elevate the heel, reducing strain on the calf muscle. They also promote healing by allowing the muscle to rest, which can help prevent future strains.

For Knee Pain

Knee pain can affect anyone, but it’s more prevalent among people with obesity due to increased stress on the knee joint. Age is another risk factor, as wear and tear can lead to conditions like osteoarthritis. Knee pain often affects the knee joint, where the thigh bone, shinbone, and kneecap connect. It can be triggered by various factors such as injuries, arthritis, and mechanical problems like a dislocation. More often than not, poor posture can aggravate knee pain.

Typical symptoms include aching pain, swelling, and difficulty in movement. Ignoring these signs could lead to long-term damage, severe pain, and even a need for surgical intervention.

Treatment for knee pain is as varied as its causes, but one surprising yet effective method is the use of heel lifts. A study carried out by the University of Salford in 2017, published in The Knee, supports this treatment.

The research involved 60 participants with chronic knee pain. After using heel lifts for six months, there was a noteworthy decrease in pain levels and improvement in overall knee function. Heel lifts can alleviate knee pain by adjusting the alignment of the knee joint, reducing pressure, and ultimately decreasing inflammation.

For Hip Pain

Hip pain is a rather common condition that impacts a significant number of people across the UK. In fact, according to the Arthritis Research UK, about 8 million people suffer from some form of hip pain. This condition manifests in the region around the hip joints and can be caused by several factors including arthritis, hip fractures, tendinitis and bursitis.

People who are more prone to hip pain are usually the elderly due to the wear and tear of the hip joints and those who have poor posture which puts undue pressure on these joints. The common symptoms include sharp or dull aching pains in the hip area, reduced mobility and discomfort during movement.

Ignoring hip pain could lead to serious complications such as permanent joint damage and even disability. Therefore, timely treatment is paramount. A study titled “Effect of Heel Lifts on Biomechanics of the Hip joint,” published in the Journal of Biomechanics in 2018 and carried out by the University of Bristol found that the use of heel lifts could help alleviate hip pain. The study, involving a group of adults with hip pain, demonstrated that wearing heel lifts resulted in a reduction of pressure on the hip joints, thereby easing pain.

Using heel lifts can help not only in the treatment but also in the prevention of hip pain. This is because the lifts work to realign the body, promoting better posture and subsequently alleviating undue pressure on the hip joint.

For Lower Back Pain

According to the National Health Service (NHS), approximately 8 in 10 people in the UK will experience some form of lower back pain in their lifetime. It most commonly affects the lumbar spine – the five vertebrae (referred to as L1-L5) in your lower back. The root causes of this lower back pain are diverse, ranging from carrying heavy loads, poor posture, aging to even genetic factors. Interestingly, individuals who lead sedentary lifestyles or those with occupations requiring prolonged sitting are found to be more susceptible.

Common signs of lower back pain include a dull ache, sharp shooting pain, or a burning sensation. If left unaddressed, it may result in reduced mobility, constant discomfort and can severely affect your quality of life.

The importance of seeking prompt treatment cannot be overstated. Failing to address the underlying causes of lower back pain can lead to complications such as chronic pain, limited mobility, and in severe cases, disability.

Treatment options include pain-relief medication, physiotherapy, and lifestyle changes. A study conducted by the University of Sydney, published in the Journal of Foot and Ankle Research in 2018, found that the use of heel lifts could effectively help manage lower back pain. This study was carried out by observing a group of participants, with and without lower back pain, walking with and without heel lifts. The study concluded that the use of heel lifts led to a significant reduction in lower back pain amongst participants.

The use of heel lifts can aid in realigning the spine, promoting better posture, and reducing the strain on the lower back. This can help in both the treatment and prevention of lower back pain, improving overall wellbeing.

For Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis, often referred to as “wear and tear” arthritis, is a condition that deteriorates the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones. It affects mainly the hands, knees, hips, and spine. Approximately 8.75 million people in the UK have sought treatment for osteoarthritis, making it a prevalent health issue.

Osteoarthritis is generally caused by normal ageing, obesity, injury or overuse, and it’s more common in people who have family members with the condition, suggesting a genetic predisposition. Common symptoms include joint pain, stiffness, and decreased movement capabilities.

Ignoring osteoarthritis can lead to an increasingly sedentary lifestyle, which in turn causes obesity, heart disease, and diabetes. Additionally, the constant pain and disability associated with it can lead to depression. Therefore, it is crucial to address this condition early to prevent these potential complications.

Early intervention and treatment can slow progression, alleviate pain, and improve joint function. One way to manage osteoarthritis, particularly in the knee or hip, is the use of heel lifts. A study conducted by the Department of Rehabilitation at the Medical University of Lodz, Poland in 2015 showed that the use of heel lifts could significantly reduce the load on the knee joint, thus bringing pain relief and improving mobility.

For Sciatica

Sciatica is a condition characterised by pain emanating from the sciatic nerve, which extends from the lower back, through the hips and buttocks, and down each leg. It’s quite common, with about 3 to 5% of the UK population experiencing it at some point.

Sciatica is usually caused by a herniated disk, bone spur on the spine, or narrowing of the spine (spinal stenosis), which compresses part of the nerve. This compression results in inflammation, pain and often some numbness in the affected leg.

Individuals who sit for prolonged periods or have a sedentary lifestyle are at higher risk of developing sciatica. Other risk factors include age, obesity, diabetes, and professions that require heavy lifting.

Ignoring sciatica can lead to loss of feeling or movement in the affected leg and even loss of bowel or bladder control in severe cases. Therefore, it’s vital to seek medical attention if you have severe back pain or sciatica.

Heel lifts can be a practical solution to manage sciatica. A study conducted by the Department of Orthopedics at the University of Heidelberg in 2009 found that the use of heel lifts helped reduce the load on the lower spine, thus easing sciatic pain and improving overall posture.

For Post-Stroke Recovery

Stroke recovery is another area where heel lifts have shown promising results. In the UK, about 1.2 million stroke survivors live with various degrees of disability. The impact of a stroke extends beyond the immediate health scare and often includes long-term physical implications such as weakness or paralysis on one side of the body, often affecting the legs and feet.

Subtle signs such as uneven gait, difficulty in walking, or a dropped foot on the affected side often indicate post-stroke locomotion issues. If overlooked, these issues can lead to debilitating complications like muscle stiffness, joint deformities, and an increased risk of falls.

A study conducted by the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine of the University of Leeds in 2017 explored the impact of heel lifts on post-stroke patients. The study, involving gait analysis before and after the use of heel lifts, pointed out a significant improvement in the walking patterns of post-stroke patients.

The use of heel lifts in post-stroke recovery works by compensating for the height discrepancy often seen in stroke survivors due to muscle weakness. This balance restoration not only improves walking but also boosts overall mobility and independence, significantly enhancing the quality of life of stroke survivors.