Name of the Procedure:

Heel and Sole Lift (L3320)

Common name: Heel Lift, Shoe Lift
Technical term: Lift, Elevation, Heel and Sole, Cork, per inch

Summary

A heel and sole lift involves adding material, typically cork, to the inside or outside of a shoe, to elevate the heel and sole. This simple, non-invasive procedure helps to address specific medical conditions by adjusting leg length discrepancies and enhancing overall posture and balance.

Purpose

The primary aim of a heel and sole lift is to:

• Correct leg length discrepancies
• Alleviate associated pain and discomfort
• Improve posture and balance
• Facilitate normal walking patterns

Indications

This procedure is typically indicated for patients with:

• Leg length discrepancies
• Lower back pain due to uneven leg lengths
• Hip or knee pain related to leg length issues
• Certain congenital conditions or injuries affecting leg length
• Gait abnormalities necessitating elevation

Preparation

• No fasting or major preparations are required.
• Patients may be asked to bring their regular footwear for fitting.
• Some cases may require a gait analysis or medical imaging to determine the exact discrepancy in leg length.

Procedure Description

1. Assessment: A healthcare provider evaluates the patient's leg length discrepancy and decides the necessary lift height.
2. Selection: Cork material is selected as it offers a good balance of firmness and flexibility.
3. Customization: The cork lift is customized to fit either inside the shoe or as an external modification.
4. Attachment: The lift is securely attached to the heel and sole areas of the shoe.
5. Evaluation: The patient's gait and comfort are re-evaluated with the lift in place, ensuring the proper fit and necessary correction.

No sedation or anesthesia is needed for this procedure.

Duration

The process typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the level of customization required.

Setting

This procedure is typically performed in:

• Orthopedic clinics
• Podiatry offices
• Specialized shoe repair shops
• Physical therapy centers

Personnel

• Orthopedic specialists
• Podiatrists
• Certified orthotists or prosthetists
• Physical therapists

Risks and Complications

The risks associated with heel and sole lift are minimal but may include:

• Initial discomfort as the patient adjusts
• Skin irritation or pressure sores if not fitted properly
• Temporary imbalance or gait changes
• Possible need for re-adjustment or replacement over time

Benefits

• Immediate relief from discomfort associated with leg length discrepancies
• Improved posture and alignment
• Enhanced balance and stability
• Reduction in associated pain (lower back, hip, knee)

Recovery

• Patients may resume normal activities immediately.
• An adjustment period of a few days to weeks as the body gets accustomed to the lift.
• Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to ensure the lift is functioning correctly and to adjust if necessary.

Alternatives

• Physical therapy and exercises aimed at strengthening and balancing leg muscles
• Surgery in severe cases of leg length discrepancy
• Custom orthotics
• Off-the-shelf shoe inserts

Pros and cons:

• Physical therapy is non-invasive but may take time to see results.
• Surgery is a permanent solution but involves higher risks and recovery time.
• Custom orthotics provide tailored solutions but at a higher cost.

Patient Experience

• Patients might feel slight discomfort initially as they adjust to the lift.
• Most experience significant pain relief and improved mobility shortly after.
• Pain management is typically unnecessary, but over-the-counter analgesics can be used if needed.

Comfort measures include ensuring the lift is properly fitted and re-evaluating the patient's gait and balance during follow-up visits.