How to Use Toe Spacers and Pads for Pointe Work
Pointe work, when ballerinas dance on their toes, is extremely difficult and can be painful after several hours of class, rehearsal and shows. That's where toe spacers and pads come in handy. Toe pads help cushion your toes while spacers help keep them aligned so they don't become deformed. But proper use is vital or you can make the situation worse.
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Instructions
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Wrap the joints of your big toe and little toe on each foot with medical tape. Wrap it around a couple times so you have just a think layer but make sure it completely covers the joint.
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Purchase rubber or gelatin toe spacers. You will need two, one for each foot. Place the toe spacer between your big toe and the next toe over. It may be strange at first, but you will get used to it. This keeps your toes aligned the proper way (as much as possible) so your toes don't overlap in the shoe and eventually begin to grow that way.
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Take a small handful of lamb's wool. Pull it apart some so it is not completely smashed and wrap it around all five toes over the top and bottom. Make sure all the joints and sides of the toes are covered.
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Slip a toe pad carefully over the wool making sure not to move the wool as it will expose your toes and cause blisters. There are lots of different styles, brands and kinds of toe pads (wool, gel). Try whichever one you think feels most comfortable and then if it doesn't work try another one.
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Slip into your pointe shoes. The pads should be firmly attached to your skin and slip into the shoe with ease. Wear your shoes as normal and enjoy dancing with less pain.
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Tips & Warnings
Test different pads and wrapping techniques until you find the ones you like best.
Don't over pad your feet because then they will be too tight in the shoe and unable to move.
