When you first start wearing a night splint for plantar fascia, you may wonder how it works and how you can keep it handy for flare-ups. Here is some information you should know about wearing a night splint and its efficacy. If you are still not convinced about its benefits, you can make your own splint at home.
Getting used to a night splint
The first step to getting used to a night splint is to wear one for a few nights, starting with an hour or two. Gradually increase the time until you are able to wear it for 4 to 5 hours at a stretch. This will help the plantar fascia extend and heal. But before you wear it all night, make sure it fits comfortably.
One of the best ways to get used to a night splint is to use it as recommended by your doctor. The night splint allows you to stretch your muscles while you sleep, similar to physical therapy. The splint stabilizes the heel while relieving pressure on the plantar fascia. Wearing a night splint is also an effective treatment for Achilles tendon problems.
Efficacy
Previous studies have shown inconsistent results when comparing orthotic insoles and night splints for plantar fasciitis. However, these studies were combined to find a more effective solution for pain relief. The results of these studies found significant reductions in pain and total FFI scores in group B compared to group A. They also showed that group B had better outcomes compared to group A at eight weeks.
Unlike orthotic inserts and stretching exercises, night splints do not cure plantar fasciitis. Rather, they can alleviate heel pain and reduce inflammation. The night splints work by holding the foot in a neutral position while it sleeps. They also prevent the plantar fascia from shortening in an attempt to compensate for reduced ankle dorsiflexion. The splints also help to pull the toes backward to reduce tension on the plantar fascia.
Keeping a splint around for possible flare-ups
The use of a night splint for plantar fasciitis is an effective way to minimize pain and prevent further damage to the plantar fascia. While they may not be comfortable to wear while sleeping, the splint helps the foot remain in a neutral position and avoids the plantar fascia from becoming shortened or stiff. Additionally, the splint will minimize foot pain when walking. Icing is another great way to minimize inflammation and pain associated with plantar fasciitis.
For the longest-lasting relief, wearing a night splint may help reduce pain caused by a potential flare-up of plantar fasciitis. Using a night splint can help prevent the inflammation of the plantar fascia, which is a sensitive tissue. It is often made of fabric and should be placed on the affected foot at night.
Making a splint at home
If you suffer from heel pain, plantar fasciitis, or other foot problems, you may want to make a night splint to prevent the condition from worsening. Night splints prevent your foot from pointing during the night and help stretch the plantar fascia. You can use an elastic band or ace bandage to create a night splint for plantar fasciitis. You can find many different types of night splints in any medical supply store.
A homemade night splint for plantar fascia can be made of long socks or tube socks. The key is to make it comfortable and secure so that it does not cause pain during the night. It should also be secure enough that you don’t fall asleep in it, since the tight fascia tissue can tighten and contract again during sleep. For best results, you should wear the night splint for at least six hours each night.
