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Exercise handout — move better, feel better.
Toe Spacer Stretch
Wearing toe spacers to passively stretch and separate the toes. Helps counteract tight footwear and benefits bunion management.
Stop if
Choose an easier exercise if pain reaches 6 out of 10 or becomes sharp. Stop and rest if pain reaches 8 out of 10.
This is the general ClapMove rule. This exercise has no extra stop rule of its own.
- Pain 6 out of 10 or more: choose an easier exercise.
- Pain 8 out of 10 or more: stop and rest.
Equipment needed
- Works at home
Home Options
- small household item
No equipment? Try: foam toe separators, silicone toe spacers
Dosage
1
Sets
900 sec
Reps / Time
0 sec
Rest
15-30 min passive wear
Tempo
Step-by-Step Guide
Set up
- Have toe spacers (silicone or foam) ready
- Sit or recline comfortably
- Remove shoes and socks
No image for this step. Follow the written instruction.
Step 1 of 5
Insert toe spacers between each toe
No image for this step. Follow the written instruction.
Step 2 of 5
They should fit snugly but not painfully
No image for this step. Follow the written instruction.
Step 3 of 5
Sit or recline and relax
No image for this step. Follow the written instruction.
Step 4 of 5
Start with 10-15 minutes
No image for this step. Follow the written instruction.
Step 5 of 5
Gradually increase to 30-60 minutes or more
Breathing
- Breathe naturally and relax
Form Cues
- Discomfort is okay, pain is not
- Toes should feel stretched but not hurt
- Relax and let the spacers do the work
- Can combine with other activities (reading, TV)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using spacers that are too large
- Wearing too long too soon
- Wearing during high activity initially
- Ignoring pain signals
Safety Information
Very safe. Helpful for bunions and tight toes. Start gradually.
Progressions
Longer duration, wear during walking, sleep in them if comfortable
Regressions
Shorter duration, thinner spacers
Get your free personalized program at clapmove.com/register
Printed from clapmove.com. ClapMove is not a replacement for professional medical advice — always consult a healthcare provider before starting any exercise program.