After hip replacement or hip surgery, some people walk away pain free… and others notice new problems: one leg feels longer, walking feels crooked, or hip and back pain appear on the opposite side.
In some cases, this is due to a post surgical leg length difference.
Why Leg Length Changes After Hip Surgery
During hip replacement, surgeons focus on:
- Stabilizing the joint
- Preventing dislocation
- Restoring function
Sometimes, that can slightly change leg length often by just a few millimeters, but enough for the body to notice. Over time, this difference can affect hip, knee, and back comfort.
Signs You May Have a Leg Length Difference After Surgery
After recovery, you might notice:
- Hip pain or fatigue when walking
- Back pain that didn’t exist before
- Feeling “tilted” or “uneven” when standing
- One shoe wearing down faster than the other
If these symptoms continue, talk with your doctor or physical therapist about checking for a leg length discrepancy.
How Shoe Lifts Support Recovery and Comfort
When a true leg length difference is confirmed, a shoe lift on the shorter side can:
- Level the pelvis
- Reduce strain on the operated hip and the opposite hip
- Improve walking comfort and balance
Systematic reviews suggest shoe lifts can reduce pain and improve function in people with leg length discrepancy and chronic musculoskeletal pain, including low back and hip pain.
Why Professional Shoe Modifications Are Ideal
For post surgery patients:
- The correction should be precise, not guessed
- The lift should be stable, not sliding around in the shoe
- The shoes should still feel safe and supportive
That’s why a professional heel or sole build up on your everyday shoes is often the best long term solution.
If you’ve done “everything right” after hip surgery therapy, exercises, follow ups but still feel crooked or sore, a custom shoe lift might be the missing piece that finally helps your hips move comfortably again.
Your hips and legs work hard for you give them the support they deserve. CnetOrthopedic creates custom shoe lift modifications designed to reduce pain, improve balance, and make walking feel more natural again. Ready to feel the difference? Call 347-853-2995 to start your custom shoe lift order today or click here to fill out order form!