Correct Toes & Orthotics

Correct Toes eliminates the need for conventional orthotics in most people by enabling the foot arch (i.e., the medial longitudinal arch) to support itself. In general, we DO NOT recommend wearing Correct Toes in combination with orthotics; we instead recommend weaning yourself off orthotics—slowly and progressively—when introducing Correct Toes. Correct Toes toe spacers 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).

• Read more about natural arch support.

Two Very Different Approaches

In other words, custom arch orthotics are not natural in any way. In fact, they violate the natural anatomy of your foot’s arches by artificially lifting them and placing material under them in a manner never seen in nature or in human-made structures, such as arch bridges. Correct Toes, on the other hand, does support 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 toe spacers are particularly effective in enabling optimal foot health when used in combination with shoes that possess a completely flat sole from heel to toe (i.e., when they are worn in a shoe that possesses no heel elevation, toe spring, or motion control features) and a sufficiently wide toe box.

Who Might Benefit From Conventional Arch Orthotics?

While most people do not need orthotics if they use Correct Toes in footwear that allows proper toe splay, there are a few rare individuals who, even with Correct Toes and proper shoes, may not achieve their desired foot health goals simply by using their foot naturally. These few individuals may, in fact, benefit from Correct Toes AND orthotics.

• Learn more about who should use orthotics.

In even rarer cases, where the combination of Correct Toes and orthotics does not restore foot arch structures, a surgical procedure on the ankle may be indicated. Of course, Correct Toes should be worn after this surgery to help maintain proper toe and foot alignment. To learn more about post-surgical recovery methods, please read this article that lists six ways to restore foot health after surgery.