Shoe lifts, whether internal or external, should ALWAYS be full length, unless your physician has recommended otherwise. Unless you have been diagnosed with heel equinus, a full sole lift is usually best. Keep in mind that if you have never worn a lift before, your body may only be able to tolerate half of the actual difference. It is often recommended that you work up to the full amount over time.
The 3 ways Crary Shoes can help you with your lift:
If you are local and know the exact lift amount you need, you can come by one of our locations (please call first)
Exterior lifts - drop off the shoes as a pair, along with a signed copy of our Lift Policy
Interior lifts - drop off either the single shoe you want the lift to fit into OR a tracing of the insole from one of your shoes. Note: if you plan to switch the lift from shoe to shoe, use an insole from one of your smallest pair of shoes.
If you are local and would like assistance from one of our Certified Pedorthists, call or email to schedule an appointment. We will work with you to determine the proper lift amount, the taper of the lift and how to best work with your current footwear collection. There is a consultation fee for this initial appointment.
If you are not local, you can mail your footwear to our Airport Way location. Please email a photo of your shoes first, to ensure we can successfully put on the required lift amount. Send along a signed copy of our “Lift Policy” (only required the first time).
What is the cost ?
As you can imagine, the lift type and size combination, along with several other things are a factor when determining cost. However, we have a general pricing guide for lifts that you can view .
If you are unsure of which category or pricing option your specific need may fall into, or if you are planning to mail your shoes in, we ask that you please email us - first - a picture of your shoes with a detailed description of your need to: admin@craryshoes.com
“LIFT” Types
Interior Sole Lifts can can work well if they are 3/8" or less. The lift can be slightly tapered from the heel to the ball of the foot and then tapered more from the ball to the toes. For functional reasons, the less tapering the better; however, this can be difficult in many standard shoes. An extra depth shoe makes this much easier. The best part is the lift can be moved from shoe to shoe, making it much more economical.
Exterior Sole Lifts are recommended for more than 3/8". Whenever possible, we remove the original outsole, glue the lift amount onto the shoe, taper it appropriately at the toe, and then put the original sole back on. We also match the color of the original material as much as possible, which gives an aesthetically pleasing look. Much of the time, no one ever knows you even have a lift in your shoe.
Keep in mind, it is best to put exterior sole lifts on newer, high quality shoes. If you are going to pay for an exterior lift, you will want the shoes to last a long time.
Heel Only Lifts are used for various diagnoses, such as post polio, cerebral palsy, a shortened achilles tendon and more. Please consult with your physician first to determine if you need a heel only or a full sole lift.
Do You Qualify for Insurance Coverage??
Most insurance companies do not cover lifts, however, if the limb length discrepancy is due to a work injury or you are an injured Veteran, the lift would most likely be covered. You can check with your insurance by asking about your DME (Durable Medical Equipment) benefit for HCPC code L3310.