FAQ Correct Toes
The reason why Correct Toes work
Most of us have spent a lifetime in footwear that is too narrow at the ends of the toes. The result is that our foot shape actually changes such that the toes become scrunched together. This disrupts the structural integrity of the entire foot and feeds into the rest of the body causing many aches and pains.
Correct Toes work by spreading the toes such that they re-approximate natural anatomy which is essential to achieving proper gate. By placing the toes into optimal alignment, slowly and progressively, the foot architecture changes. The muscles and other tissues of the foot and body are able to adapt and strengthen accordingly. Ultimately, the goal is to return the foot to its natural shape and function!
Foot conditions that can be helped
Regular use of Correct Toes in shoes that are sufficiently wide, lightweight, and flexible can, over time, correct a wide variety of foot problems. Examples of conditions treated are: bunions, hammertoes, ingrown toenails, heel pain or plantar fasciosis, corns, neuromas, capsulitis, lower leg pain, and runner’s knee. Amazingly, no orthotics, surgeries, or medications are required!
Importance of using correct Footwear
To maximize the benefits of wearing Correct Toes it is vital to utilize shoes that are completely flat, lightweight, flexible, and sufficiently wide in the toe box, so that the foot can function like a barefoot inside the shoe. This type of footwear must be used on a very regular basis.
Unfortunately, almost all the footwear available on the market does not respect natural anatomy. In a natural foot, the widest part of the foot is at the ends of the toes, not at the ball. The trick to finding appropriate footwear is to make sure that the shoe is the same shape as your foot. The best way to test this is to pull the liner out of the shoe and stand on it while wearing Correct Toes product. No part of your foot should hang over the liner. If it does, the shoe is too narrow. The Lems Shoes are designed with all the correct features for good footwear and are perfect for combining with the Correct Toes product
Difference between Correct Toes and other toe spacers
All other toe-spacing products on the market are designed for use while barefoot and while sitting (non-weight-bearing). They are bulky, and it would therefore be impossible to use them while standing, walking, or in shoes.
Correct Toes are the ONLY product that is specifically designed to be worn in footwear and during weight-bearing activity. This is essential for attaining the best possible results in making actual changes to the foot and alleviating foot problems. The material is light-weight, soft, comfortable, and durable.
Also, Correct Toes do not arbitrarily space the toes. Correct Toes were specifically designed by a podiatrist (Dr. Ray McClanahan) to space the toes in their optimal positions, both in relation to the ground and to each other.
Length of time to get results when wearing Correct Toes
This depends on many factors, such as a person’s age, how often Correct Toes are used, level of physical activity, how often appropriate footwear is worn, etc. Most people experience some relief right away, with continued positive results over many months. For architectural changes to take place in the feet, some time and dedication is required. Just as the negative changes took a long time to develop, so too will positive changes require some time. You should anticipate on wearing your Correct Toes for many years. Positive changes will occur sooner than that, but continued use will assure on-going natural foot health.
Correct Toes for walking or running
Having spread toes while running and walking is great for the feet and whole body. It also feels wonderful. It is VERY IMPORTANT that the shoe is wide enough in the toe box to incorporate Correct Toes without pinching or rubbing. To test your shoe, take the liner out and stand on it while wearing the Correct Toes. If any part of the foot hangs over the liner, then these shoes will not work with Correct Toes.
Wearing Correct Toes and conventional orthotics
Correct Toes eliminate the need for conventional orthotics in most people by enabling your foot arch to support itself. The Correct Toes SHOULD NOT be worn in combination with orthotics. Instead it is recommend to wean yourself off orthotics by slowly and progressively introducing Correct Toes into your footwear.
Correct Toes are, by definition, an orthotic, though conventional custom orthotics are placed under your foot arch (instead of between your toes) and attempt to alter foot position by using an unnatural methodology (i.e., by propping up your foot arch). Instead Correct Toes, supports your foot’s arches in the exact manner nature intended, by placing your toes in their ideal natural alignment. So here we have two different types of orthotics attempting to do the same thing: one violates the natural anatomy of the foot, the other provides natural alignment to the foot and toes, and thus balance and support.
Correct Toes are particularly effective in enabling optimal foot health when used in combination with a completely flat shoe surface (i.e., when they are worn in a shoe that possesses no heel elevation, toe spring, or motion control features).
Modifying the Correct Toes fit
The Correct Toes can be modified to customize the fit for differences in peoples feet. These modifications are described in the owners manual and in the modification section under the Correct Toes menu.
Contraindications for using Correct Toes
Anyone with diabetes or with diminished sensation of the feet should NOT use Correct Toes. Also, anyone with diminished circulation (peripheral arterial disease or “PAD”) should NOT use Correct Toes. If for any reason you are uncertain about whether you should use Correct Toes, you should consult your holistically-minded healthcare provider.
If you are still unsure or have any questions regarding the Correct Toes please contact support@vitalfeet.com. Alternatively you can contact Northwest Foot & Ankle (Correct Toes USA) by clicking here.