Heel Lift Effects on Children
Gait and Posture published research comparing heel lifts (10, 20 and 30mm) heights in 32 children with cerebral palsy, arthrogryposis and a control group. The cerebral palsy and arthrogryposis groups showed significant changes in the ankle, knee and pelvis whereas the control group only showed significant changes at the ankle. The higher the heel height resulted in a decrease in anterior pelvic tilt but increased knee flexion except in the control group. The researchers recommend an individualized approach to determine the proper heel height for each child.
Reference:Bartonek A, Lidbeck CM, Pettersson R, Weidenhielm EB, Eriksson M, Gutierrez-Farewik E. Influence of heel lifts during standing in children with motor disorders. Gait Posture. 2011 Jul 19. [Epub ahead of print]