For me the end game is the 2-1/2 inches if I want to walk without limping. I do walk using my regular shoes but it puts a of stress on my right hip, which has a artificial hip so and I get tired quicker. I also have two knee replacements as well. When I do wear regular shoes I'll usually use two canes which helps quite a bit. I should also let you know that I am 74 yrs. old.
I'm fairly active: I replace electrical outlets and light switches, take the trash to the corner, help clean the, I still drive (since it's my left hip and not the right I can still use the brake, and I enjoy woodworking. I lost my left hip in 2016 because infections. it was removed twice the area cleaned, but I had so much muscle damage and too many surgeries, it was decided to leave the hip out. Hang in there and don't give up. The road to through tunnel is long, but there is light there.If you want know more and I mean anything, just ask me. Best of luck. By the Way, I'm retired.