Children with unequal leg lengths may benefit from shoe lifts or inserts that equalize their leg lengths. This not only improves their ability to walk normally, but it also decreases the tendency to develop contractures on the joint affected by arthritis.
Certain types of inflammation in the feet may also benefit from shoe inserts that redistribute weight into the heel, taking weight off the sore middle or front of the foot.
WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise