Night splints (braces) may be used to treat conditions such as Achilles tendinopathy and plantar fasciitis.
How Does a Night Splint Treat Foot Pain?
The splint holds the foot with the toes pointed up. This position applies a constant, gentle stretch to the plantar fascia. It also stretches the Achilles tendon at the back of the heel, preventing it from contracting. You can wear night splints every night for up to several months. Then you can gradually reduce how often you use them as your symptoms go away.
The brace is usually adjustable, so you and your podiatrist can adjust it to the proper angle. While you use night splints, you can continue other treatments with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), physical therapy, or orthotic devices.
A night splint is a device worn while sleeping that keeps the foot in a flexed position, gently stretching the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon. Night splints work on the principle of prolonged, gentle stretching. During sleep, our feet naturally point downward, which can cause the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon to tighten. The splint counters this by holding the foot at a 90-degree angle to the leg or in a slightly dorsiflexed position. This prolonged stretch helps in several ways:
- Prevents morning pain: Maintaining a stretched position overnight reduces the sharp pain often felt when taking the first steps in the morning.
- Promotes healing: The consistent stretch helps to heal micro-tears in the plantar fascia and reduces inflammation.
- Improves flexibility: Regular use can increase the overall flexibility of the foot and ankle.
- Prevents contraction: It stops the plantar fascia from tightening up during sleep, which can worsen conditions like plantar fasciitis.
- Complements daytime treatments: Night splints work alongside other treatments like orthotics, exercises, and medication for comprehensive care.
Specific Conditions Treated:
- Plantar Fasciitis: This is the most common condition treated with night splints. The constant stretch prevents the plantar fascia from tightening overnight, reducing morning pain and promoting healing.
- Achilles Tendinitis: By keeping the Achilles tendon elongated, night splints can reduce inflammation and pain in this area.
- Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction (PTTD): In early stages, night splints can help maintain the foot's proper position and reduce strain on the tendon.
- Heel Spurs: Often associated with plantar fasciitis, heel spurs can benefit from the reduced tension provided by night splints.
Types of Night Splints:
- Dorsal Night Splints: These fit along the top of the foot and shin.
- Boot-style Splints: These encase the foot and lower leg.
- Sock-style Splints: A more flexible, comfortable option for mild cases.
At New Mexico Foot & Ankle Specialists, we assess each patient's specific condition to recommend the most appropriate type of splint.
Night splints are a great treatment option used in combination with other heel pain treatments. Other heel pain treatment options can include:
- Custom orthotics for daytime support
- Stretching and strengthening exercises
- Physical therapy
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- In some cases, corticosteroid injections
At New Mexico Foot & Ankle Specialists, a premier Albuquerque podiatrist, we often recommend night splints as part of a treatment plan for conditions such as plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis, and some cases of posterior tibial tendon dysfunction. Our podiatrists can provide custom-fitted splints and guide you on their proper use to maximize benefits and comfort.
