Leg Length Discrepancies


Footwear with orthopaedic features offers many benefits, however sometimes shoes may need to be modified to better support and accommodate individual needs. The types of footwear modifications a Canadian Certified Pedorthist – C. Ped (C) can complete range from simple to complex and include:

  • Stretching:to improve the fit of a shoe
  • Bubble patches:to increase the room in the shoe and reduce the pressure on sensitive areas
  • Sole splits:to increase the width of the sole up to 3/8″
  • Excavations:to reduce the pressure on sensitive areas
  • Reinforcements:to strengthen an area and reduce premature wear
  • Flares and buttresses:to strengthen the shoe, widen the base of support and stop the foot from distorting the shoe
  • Rocker soles:to relieve pain in the ball of the foot, aggressively offload certain areas of the foot or to improve gait by aiding the heel contact or push off phase of gait
  • Lifts:to accommodate leg length differences
These modifications can be made to everyday footwear as well as to some athletic footwear. Some modifications are not appropriate for all types of footwear, so you should discuss your options with your Canadian Certified Pedorthist.