Achilles tendonitis is a common condition causing pain and inflammation along the back of the leg near the heel. This injury affects the Achilles tendon, which is the largest tendon in the body, connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone. Heel lifts are a standard, non-invasive supportive measure often recommended by healthcare professionals for managing the symptoms of this tendon irritation. By altering the foot’s position inside the shoe, these inserts can provide immediate relief by temporarily reducing mechanical stress on the affected tissue. This simple modification is part of a broader treatment strategy aimed at facilitating healing and pain reduction.
The Role of Heel Lifts in Tendon Relief
The biomechanical purpose of a heel lift is to decrease the strain placed on the Achilles tendon during walking or running. By raising the heel relative to the forefoot, the lift effectively shortens the functional length of the calf muscle and tendon unit. This elevation reduces the degree of ankle dorsiflexion, which is the upward bending of the foot towards the shin, a movement that normally places the greatest stretch on the tendon.
Reducing this maximum stretch minimizes the tensile load, or pulling force, on the tendon as the foot pushes off the ground. For those with Achilles tendonitis, this offloading is crucial for pain management. Studies have demonstrated that wearing a heel lift results in a measurable decrease in the pulling force experienced by the tendon during activity.
This reduction in strain is particularly helpful in the acute or early stages of pain, offering immediate symptomatic relief. For cases involving insertional Achilles tendonitis, where the pain is located at the heel bone attachment, the lift also limits the compressive force that occurs when the tendon is pressed against the bone during extreme dorsiflexion. The temporary relief provided allows the painful tendon to rest and begin the healing process while maintaining mobility.
Key Features When Selecting a Lift
The selection of a heel lift should focus on specific physical characteristics to ensure maximum effectiveness for tendon recovery. One primary consideration is the material’s density, as the lift must be firm enough to maintain its height and not compress significantly under body weight. If the material is too soft, like some gel or foam options, the heel will sink, negating the intended reduction in tendon strain.
Materials like dense cork, firm rubber, or rigid plastic compositions are preferred because they offer the necessary structural support. While soft gel lifts may offer cushioning, they are less effective for offloading the Achilles tendon due to their high compressibility. The height or wedge specification is also paramount, with recommendations suggesting a minimum elevation of about 10 to 12 millimeters (roughly half an inch) to achieve a noticeable biomechanical effect.
Many commercially available heel lifts offer adjustable layers, allowing the user to customize the height. This adjustability is beneficial as it permits a gradual reduction in height as the tendon recovers, preventing long-term dependency on the lift. The lift must also fit properly inside the shoe without causing the heel to slip out.
A proper fit involves ensuring the lift is used in both shoes, even if only one tendon is symptomatic, to prevent leg length discrepancies and subsequent alignment issues. The physical size and shape should match the contour of the shoe’s heel cup, providing stability and preventing unwanted movement during activity. A secure, comfortable fit ensures the lift effectively performs its mechanical function without creating new foot problems.
Purchasing Options and Retailers
When seeking to buy heel lifts, consumers can choose from a few distinct types of vendors, each offering different levels of convenience and expertise.
General Retailers
General retailers, such as pharmacies and big-box stores, are the most accessible option for immediate purchase. These locations typically stock a range of generic, pre-packaged heel pads and inserts that offer a quick and inexpensive solution. However, the selection at these stores may lack the higher-density or adjustable features often recommended for Achilles tendonitis.
Specialty Medical Suppliers
For a more specialized product, look toward specialty medical suppliers, such as orthopedic supply stores or physical therapy clinics. These vendors often carry professional-grade products, including cork or rubber lifts with specific height measurements and layered adjustability. Specialty medical retailers may also offer the benefit of staff consultation, which can be helpful in selecting the correct size and material.
Online Marketplaces
The third main purchasing option is through large online marketplaces, which offer the greatest variety of brands, materials, and price points. Online shopping provides convenience and the ability to compare multiple product specifications, including those with adjustable layers, before purchase. While online marketplaces offer extensive choice, they do not allow for in-person sizing consultation or the immediate feel of the material.
Regardless of the purchasing category, the focus should remain on acquiring a firm, appropriately sized, and functionally effective insert to support the recovering Achilles tendon.