Who We Are
ABOUT US
We specialize in external & internal shoe lifts, custom orthotics, and all shoe modifications.
Frequently Asked Questions About Custom Shoe Lifts for Leg Length Discrepancy
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a prescription to lift a shoe for leg length discrepancy?
No prescription is required to have a shoe lifted, but we recommend consulting with your healthcare provider to determine the correct lift height for your needs. While the most precise measurements come from medical imaging (like X-rays), you can estimate your LLD at home using this simple method.
Do you do any other type of shoe modifications?
Yes, please see our external shoe lift page, under the price list for more information.
How do I know how much of a shoe-lift I will need?
We always recommend seeing a medical professional to get the correct amount that is going to work best for you. A doctor or chiropractor can measure your leg length difference, or you can use blocks of known height to even out the pelvis. This method will give you your functional leg length measurement but could be different to your actual leg length difference. You can check out our Blog post about “How to Measure for a Leg Length Discrepancy”.
Will my insurance cover an external shoe lift?
Unfortunately, external shoe lifts are not typically covered by insurance, as they are considered a non-reimbursable expense by most providers.
Can you work with orthopedic or medical shoes?
Yes, we can modify most orthopedic shoes, provided they have a suitable sole for lift application.
Can you modify cleats, boots, or specialty footwear?
We’ve successfully modified many types of shoes, including cleats, work boots, and hiking shoes, depending on the construction of the sole. Before sending it is always best to text or email us a picture so we can confirm the shoe is a good candidate for a lift.
What training do you have for elevating shoes?
Our craftsman is a Certified Pedorthist with over 30 years of experience as a shoe repair specialist. A Pedorthist is a trained professional who specializes in modifying footwear and using supportive devices to help manage conditions affecting the feet and lower limbs.
Can you do an external shoe lift of less than 1/4 "?
Yes, we do a lot of external shoe lift or heel lifts less that 1/4″. Even on sandals or flip flops.
How long does it take to get my custom shoe lift back?
Starting the day we receive your shoes, our current turnaround time is approximately 15–25 business days (3–5 weeks) to have your custom shoe lift completed and ready to ship back to you.
Please check our hours of operation for any holiday closings that may affect the turnaround time on your shoes.
What shoe is best for an external-shoe-lift?
Our Pedorthists have extensive experience, so it’s very rare that we receive a shoe we can’t add a heel lift or external lift to. If you’re unsure about your shoe choice, feel free to text (770-921-4480) or email (support@lilburnshoe.com) us a picture — we’ll gladly let you know if it’s a good option for modification.
What is adding color to match the upper VS matching the sole color?
In most cases, we match the color of your custom shoe lift to the existing sole of the shoe. For higher lifts, we often incorporate additional colors that blend with the upper or parts of the upper (see our picture gallery for examples). This technique works especially well on athletic and dress shoes, helping to minimize the visual impact of the lift.
Color matching is particularly effective for shoes with light-colored soles, as these tend to make lifts more noticeable. Black and darker soles are naturally less noticeable, and while they may not require color blending, doing so can still enhance the overall appearance.
Do you ship outside the United States of America?
Yes, we do ship internationally. However, customers are responsible for all shipping costs, including any customs fees or import duties that may apply.
Do you provide a return shipping label?
Visit our External Shoe Lift page to download the order form and get your free shipping label. You can also contact us directly for help.
Do you guarantee your work?
Yes, We guarantee our work for the life of the shoe, which means as long as the shoe is still wearable and in serviceable condition. If the lift ever separates, squeaks, or shows signs of coming loose, we’ll gladly repair it at no charge. After that we do charge for repair/shipping.
For reference, everyday athletic shoes like Nikes, Hokas, and New Balance typically last 300–500 miles of walking or running, or about 6–12 months of regular daily wear. Of course, proper care can sometimes extend their life even further.
Can you remove a custom-shoe-lift?
Yes, we can remove and restore the shoe to close to original condition