Toe splay refers to the natural movement and positioning of the toes when walking or standing. Specifically, it refers to the separation and spreading of the toes as they flex and grip the ground during weight-bearing activities.
When the toes splay, the muscles and ligaments in the foot are activated, which helps to stabilize the foot and maintain balance. This can help to prevent foot injuries and improve overall foot health. In contrast, wearing shoes that are too narrow or tight can limit the natural splaying of the toes, which can lead to foot problems such as bunions, hammertoes, and neuromas.
Toe splay is an important aspect of proper foot mechanics and can be encouraged by wearing shoes that allow the toes to move and flex freely, such as barefoot or minimalist shoes. By promoting natural toe splay, you can improve foot strength, flexibility, and overall foot health.