A compensation device for a valve compensates for expansion of a valve stem and/or inertial effects during operation of the valve. The compensation device is preferably integrally provided with the valve. The compensation device includes a first plate rigidly connected to the body of the valve and a second plate movably coupled to the first plate. The second plate is rigidly coupled to the operator assembly housing that houses and controls the movement of the second end of the valve stem, so that movement of the second plate relative to the first plate moves the operator assembly relative to the valve body to compensate for expansion of the valve stem and/or inertial forces. The first plate and second plate remain in radial alignment during the relative movement. One or more biasing elements, such as spring assemblies, are used to connect the first plate and the second plate to bias the plates in a default position, absorb forces and allow for movement of the second plate relative to the first plate. The spring assembly preferably comprises an array of Belleville washers.