The Best Plantar Fasciitis Night Splints

Plantar fasciitis, or the inflammation of the plantar fascia, can be particularly debilitating in the morning. Luckily, a plantar fasciitis night splint can help by gently stretching the calf and the plantar fascia tendon while you sleep. Take a look at our list of the best plantar fasciitis night splints and don’t let foot pain get the better of you.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis

The plantar fascia supports the arch of the foot, absorbing the shock of each step. If it is put under too much stress, however, it can tear, causing inflammation and stabbing pain in the heel area and bottom of the foot. Here are some of the most common factors that put you at a greater risk of developing plantar fasciitis.

• Being overweight
• Being on your feet for long periods of time
• High-impact activities such as running
• Flat feet or high arches
• Abnormal pattern of walking such as foot pronation
• Wearing shoes that are not supportive such as high heels

Tips for Wearing a Night Splint for Plantar Fasciitis

• How to Wear a Night Splint for Plantar Fasciitis?

  If worn correctly, a night splint should keep your foot at a 90-degree angle to stretch the plantar fascia, as well as the Achilles tendon and calf muscles, while you sleep. Most night splints come with three adjustable straps to keep your foot securely in place—tighten or loosen them to achieve the perfect fit. Some night splints also come with a wedge that can be placed under the toes to increase the level of stretch of the plantar fascia.

• How Long Should you Wear a Night Splint?

  Initially, you should only wear your night splint for around an hour at a time. This can be gradually increased over time. It is recommended that you wear the splint each night for at least two weeks. For best results, however, you should use a night splint for around a four weeks.

• Can you Walk on a Night Splint

  As a general rule, splints for plantar fasciitis should be only worn while you are sleeping or sitting down. Nevertheless, walking in a night splint for short periods of time—to the bathroom, for example—should not be a problem. Some night splints even feature non-slip tread to keep you safe while you are on your feet.

• What is the Best Exercise for Plantar Fasciitis?

  Besides wearing a night splint, you can also alleviate the symptoms of plantar fasciitis thought exercise. Stretching your plantar fascia before getting out of bed can make the first few steps in the morning a lot less painful.

  To loosen the muscles, loop a belt or a rolled up towel around your foot. Keeping your legs straight in front of you, pull on the ends of the belt or towel until you feel a stretch in the your calf. Hold this position for 30 seconds before releasing and repeating five times.

Weighing All the Factors

All things considered, MARS WELLNESS’ posterior night splint cannot be beaten as the best plantar fasciitis night splint. With its list of features, it is an affordable option for those seeking relief from foot pain. Saying this, Flexibrace’s soft night splint and Vive’s posterior night splint are also strong contenders worth a closer look.