As more research is conducted in the world of podiatry, we’re continuing to learn of the many ways in which supporting our foot health can have a positive, knock-on effect on a variety of other bodily aches and pains. From chronic back pain to depleted energy levels and poor sleep, there are a variety of symptoms which may just be relieved from the ground up.
Feet have been the centre of holistic therapy practices for millennia, with the popular practice of reflexology dictating that the many, varied zones of the feet are intricately and inherently connected to other parts of the body – and by applying pressure to those areas, you can relieve pain or discomfort elsewhere. Though there’s little scientific evidence for the holistic treatment, many athletes and chronic pain sufferers swear by it.
One increasingly common podiatric treatment that has gained popularity in both the scientific and holistic therapy communities, however, is toe separators. According to the rather aptly named Feet & Feet, many podiatrists and health practitioners recommend wearing them to treat (but not always cure) certain conditions such as bunions, hammertoes and overlapping toes.
What are toe separators and how do they work?
A lesser-known way of relieving foot pain and discomfort, toe separators or spacers can help to reduce pressure, improve alignment and increase circulation in the feet. They also can help to improve muscle strength and flexibility as well as balance and stability. In preventing overlap and strengthening the muscles of your toes, spacers can slowly shift and improve the structure of your foot – helping to reverse certain malformations while relieving pain.
Toe spacers shouldn’t be worn all day or with shoes. The best way to strengthen your toes and feet with spacers is by wearing them for approximately 30 minutes a day. You can gradually increase the amount of time you wear them for, so long as you don’t experience any pain or discomfort along the way. Listen to your body and adjust the amount of time you wear your spacers according to your comfort levels.
What are the benefits of using toe separators?
- Pain relief: Not only can toe separators relieve pain by reducing pressure and friction between the toes, but the stretching and strengthening of the toe muscles by spacing them can work to help reduce pressure and pain in the rest of your foot muscles.
- Better alignment: By encouraging your toes to rest in their natural position, toe separators can help to treat malformations like bunions and hammertoes.
- Improved circulation: Toe spacers enhance blood circulation by creating space between the toes. This is a particularly brilliant benefit for those who spend a lot of time on their feet, as better circulation helps to prevent swelling and foot fatigue.
- Improved balance and stability: By promoting better alignment, improved circulation, and muscle strength, toe spacers can help to promote proper alignment and weight distribution in the feet – thereby improving balance and stability.
We’ve rounded up a selection of the best toe separators and spacers below.
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