Are Shoe Lifts the Best Solution for Leg Length Discrepancy After Knee Surgery?

The Impact of Leg Length Discrepancy After Revision Knee Surgery: Why Shoe Lift Modifications are Often the Best Solution

Leg length discrepancy (LLD) is a common condition following certain surgical procedures, particularly hip and knee replacements. A 2012 study published in The Knee by Mufty, Vandenneucker, and Bellemans, titled The Influence of Leg Length Difference on Clinical Outcome After Revision Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA), provides critical insights into how leg length changes after revision surgeries affect patient outcomes. This study, combined with real-world data from American Heelers— a leading provider of shoe lift modifications for individuals with LLD—highlights how the issue can be managed for optimal results.

Leg Length Discrepancy After Knee Surgery: The Study Findings

The study conducted by Mufty et al. explored the effects of leg length changes after revision total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Revision TKA refers to a secondary surgery performed to replace or correct a previous knee replacement, often due to wear, infection, or mechanical failure of the original implant.

The key finding of the study was that leg length often increases after revision TKA, with an average leg length increase of 9.3 mm. Interestingly, 76% of the patients in the study experienced leg lengthening after surgery, while 20% had shortened legs, and only 4% remained with identical leg lengths. What makes this finding significant is that the leg length discrepancy resulting from surgery was positively correlated with improved clinical outcomes.

By using the Knee Society Score (KSS) to measure pain, function, and overall knee stability, the researchers observed that patients who experienced leg lengthening after revision TKA reported better outcomes in the short (3-month) and long (1-year) term. This may seem counterintuitive, as most people would assume that a change in leg length would lead to complications. However, the study suggests that in revision TKA, where substantial bone loss and soft tissue damage occur, compensating for these factors by lengthening the leg can improve joint stability and reduce pain.

The Real-World Picture: American Heelers’ Experience

While the study focuses on the clinical outcomes following revision TKA, leg length discrepancy (LLD) is a broader issue that affects a significant portion of patients undergoing joint replacement surgeries. According to American Heelers, one of the most trusted names in shoe lift modification services globally, around one-third of their clients with LLD developed the condition after undergoing hip or knee replacement surgery.

LLD, whether it is caused by surgery or other factors like trauma or congenital issues, can lead to discomfort, gait abnormalities, and even chronic pain in the lower back, hips, or knees. For many individuals, especially those whose leg length discrepancy is greater than 5 mm—similar to the average increase reported in Mufty’s study—the best solution is to modify footwear to accommodate the difference.

Why Shoe Lift Modifications Work

Shoe lift modifications involve adjusting the height of one shoe to match the length of the shorter leg, thereby correcting the imbalance in leg length. While minor discrepancies (usually under 5 mm) might not cause significant symptoms, larger differences can create a noticeable shift in the body’s alignment. This imbalance can put excessive strain on joints and muscles, leading to pain and discomfort over time.

American Heelers has developed a niche expertise in this area, helping over 20,000 clients from around the world manage their LLD. Their services allow patients to mail in shoes for custom lift modifications, creating a simple and effective solution for those dealing with post-surgery LLD. By raising the sole of the shoe on the shorter leg, the discrepancy is corrected, and patients can often walk, stand, and exercise more comfortably and evenly.

This service has become increasingly important in light of studies like the one from Mufty et al., which demonstrate that LLD is not just a minor complication of surgeries like revision TKA. In many cases, the leg length increase from the surgery leads to improved knee stability and pain relief, but it can still require careful management to prevent other issues in posture and mobility.

LLD and Its Broader Implications

While Mufty’s study found that leg length increases can be beneficial after revision TKA, it is important to remember that even small discrepancies can have significant implications for overall health. Many patients experience discomfort due to misalignment of their pelvis and spine as their body tries to compensate for the uneven leg length.

Chronic pain is a frequent result of untreated LLD, particularly in the lower back and hips. This is because the body must constantly shift weight and posture to maintain balance, placing stress on muscles and joints. Left unaddressed, these symptoms can worsen over time and may require additional medical interventions.

Shoe lift modifications provide an excellent non-invasive solution. For individuals who experience LLD after joint replacement surgeries, the ability to restore balance without further surgical intervention is invaluable. By partnering with experts like American Heelers, patients can access a tailored solution that directly addresses the core issue—LLD—and reduces the likelihood of secondary problems caused by poor body alignment.

A Simple Solution with a Big Impact

Leg length discrepancy is not an issue that should be overlooked, particularly for those who have undergone knee or hip replacement surgery. The study by Mufty et al. shows that while leg lengthening after revision TKA can be beneficial in terms of joint stability and pain reduction, LLD still needs to be addressed for overall comfort and functional mobility.

American Heelers has proven to be a leader in providing solutions for this specific issue. Their custom shoe lift modifications offer a simple, accessible solution for individuals suffering from post-surgery LLD. With over 20,000 clients served, American Heelers’ expertise and attention to detail ensure that patients can restore balance and relieve the discomfort associated with leg length discrepancy.

In summary, whether LLD arises from surgery or other causes, addressing it with shoe lift modifications is often the best solution to prevent long-term complications. As the study shows, leg length changes after surgery can lead to better outcomes, but managing the resulting LLD with a customized shoe lift can ensure that patients get the best of both worlds—better knee function and balanced, pain-free mobility.

To find out more about how American Heelers can help you can visit their website www.orthopedicshoelift.com or give them a call at 216-378-2686.