The 26 Review
- What is a night splint A special medical device worn overnight that provides continuous stretching and immobilization of the desired area
- Why To prevent the soft tissue in the ankles, lower legs, and feet from contracting and tightening overnight
- Recommended For Patients that experience chronic stiffness and pain in the feet and ankles
- Common Conditions Plantar Fasciitis and Achilles Tendonitis
Let’s take a closer look…
A night splint is a specialized orthopedic device used to treat certain foot and ankle conditions. It is typically worn during sleep to provide continuous stretching and immobilization of the affected area. A night splint is designed to maintain a prolonged stretch of the soft tissues, such as the calf muscles and the plantar fascia, in order to alleviate symptoms associated with conditions like Plantar Fasciitis and Achilles Tendonitis. It usually consists of a rigid or semi-rigid frame that holds the foot and ankle in a specific position. The splint is usually worn on the back of the leg and foot, with the toes pointing upward or in a neutral position, depending on the condition being treated. The main goal of a night splint is to prevent the soft tissues from contracting and tightening overnight, which can lead to pain and stiffness in the morning. By maintaining a stretched position, a night splint helps to reduce inflammation, promote healing, and improve mobility and flexibility in the foot and ankle.
Benefits
There are several benefits that night splints have to offer for individuals with stiff ankles or foot conditions. The following list includes a few benefits of wearing a night splint:
- Reduced Morning Pain and Stiffness
- Promotes Healing and Recovery
- Improved Flexibility and Mobility
- Non-Invasive Treatment Option
- Customizable and Comfortable
Types
There are several types of night splints available to address different foot and ankle conditions. Here are some common types:
Top of Foot Night Splints
Top of foot night splints, also known as dorsal or anterior night splints, are designed to hold the foot in a dorsiflexed position, with the toes pointing upward. They typically consist of a rigid or semi-rigid frame that supports the front of the foot and ankle while keeping the Plantar Fascia stretched.
Boot-like Night Splints
Boot-like night splints resemble a boot or a brace that wraps around the calf and foot. They often have adjustable straps or closures to provide a secure fit. These night splints typically keep the foot in a neutral position, providing a gentle stretch to the Plantar Fascia and Achilles Tendon.
Sock-like Night Splints
Sock-like night splints are made of soft and flexible materials that wrap around the foot and ankle like a sock. They often have adjustable straps or bands to provide compression and support. Sock-like night splints are generally more lightweight and less bulky than other types, offering a comfortable and less restrictive option for certain foot conditions.
Hybrid Night Splints
Hybrid night splints combine features of different types of night splints. They may incorporate both rigid and soft components, such as a rigid frame for stability and a padded or cushioned inner lining for comfort. Hybrid night splints aim to provide the benefits of multiple designs in a single device.