Should You Wear Heel Lifts In Both Shoes?

Should You Wear Heel Lifts In Both Shoes?

Whether you should wear heel lifts in one shoe or both depends entirely on why you are using them. For many conditions, wearing heel lifts in both shoes can help maintain balance, improve walking symmetry and reduce unnecessary strain on the lower limbs. However, there are situations where a heel lift is intentionally worn in only one shoe, such as when managing a leg length discrepancy.

Understanding when to wear one heel lift—or two—can help improve comfort whilst avoiding unnecessary changes to your walking pattern.

Whilst heel lifts can provide valuable support, the most appropriate approach will depend on the underlying cause of your symptoms and should be guided by professional advice where appropriate.

Why Are Heel Lifts Sometimes Worn In Both Shoes?

Heel lifts change the position of the heel and ankle during standing and walking. When the same amount of heel elevation is used in both shoes, it helps maintain a more balanced posture and even weight distribution.

Many people wear heel lifts in both shoes when managing:

  • Plantar fasciitis
  • Achilles tendonitis
  • Calf muscle tightness
  • Heel pain
  • Sports recovery
  • Temporary off-loading strategies

Using heel lifts bilaterally may help improve comfort during prolonged walking or standing whilst reducing unnecessary changes in gait.

When Should A Heel Lift Be Worn In Just One Shoe?

There are situations where wearing a heel lift in one shoe only is appropriate.

This is most commonly recommended for:

  • Leg length discrepancies
  • Certain biomechanical imbalances
  • Post-surgical rehabilitation
  • Specific gait compensation strategies

In these situations, the heel lift is being used to correct an existing imbalance rather than simply reduce tension through the foot or Achilles tendon.

Because changing the height of one leg also affects the knees, hips and lower back, single-sided heel lifts should ideally be introduced gradually and under professional guidance.

Can Wearing One Heel Lift Cause Problems?

Using a heel lift incorrectly may create new problems rather than solving existing ones.

A heel lift that is too high, poorly fitted or used unnecessarily may contribute to:

  • Hip discomfort
  • Lower back pain
  • Altered walking mechanics
  • Balance problems
  • Knee discomfort

This is why choosing the correct height and introducing heel elevation gradually is important.

Why Adjustable Heel Elevators Are Often Recommended

One advantage of adjustable heel lifts is that they allow support to be modified as symptoms improve.

The Adjustable 5 Layer Heel Elevator features removable layers that allow heel elevation to be adjusted from approximately 15mm down to 3mm, making it easier to find a comfortable level of support.

This gradual adjustment can be particularly useful when:

  • Trialling heel elevation
  • Managing rehabilitation
  • Reducing support over time
  • Improving comfort progressively

Its slimline design also fits comfortably inside most everyday footwear.

Should You Wear Heel Lifts All Day?

Some people wear heel lifts throughout the day, whilst others only use them during activities that place greater demands on the feet and lower limbs.

The most suitable approach depends on several factors, including:

  • Your underlying condition
  • The type of footwear you wear
  • Daily activity levels
  • Comfort requirements
  • Advice from your healthcare professional

If symptoms improve, your clinician may recommend gradually reducing the amount of heel elevation over time.

Continue Reading

Explore more expert advice on heel lifts, plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendon support:

  • What Does A Heel Lift Do?
  • Can Heel Lifts Help Plantar Fasciitis?
  • Are Heel Lifts Good For Achilles Tendonitis?
  • Heel Lift vs Orthotic Insoles
  • How Much Heel Lift Should You Use?

Our Recommended Support

Adjustable 5 Layer Heel Elevator

The Adjustable 5 Layer Heel Elevator provides progressive heel elevation from 3mm to 15mm, helping reduce strain on the plantar fascia, Achilles tendon and calf muscles whilst fitting comfortably into most everyday footwear. Its removable layers allow gradual adjustment, making it a versatile option for plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendon discomfort, leg length discrepancies and rehabilitation.

https://www.orthotix.co.uk/products/adjustable-heel-elevator

When Should You Seek Professional Advice?

If you are unsure whether a heel lift should be worn in one shoe or both, or if you experience persistent pain, worsening symptoms, changes in walking or discomfort affecting the hips, knees or lower back, you should seek assessment from a qualified healthcare professional. The correct use of heel lifts depends on the underlying cause of your symptoms, and an accurate diagnosis will help ensure you receive the most appropriate treatment.