By Rehan Iqbal
If you are suffering from plantar fasciitis, you may feel a bit confused by the many different options available for treatment. Which is best? How do you choose? The truth is, there are pros and cons to all methods of plantar fasciitis treatment, and a combination of methods is usually the best strategy. In this article, we will explore the positive and negative aspects of using a plantar fasciitis night splint. Read on to learn more.
What Does a Night Splint for Plantar Fasciitis do?
There are some types of treatment that work well early on to help relieve inflammation and pain, while others work well in the long term to provide protection and support. One treatment option that provides both relief from pain and inflammation and long term protection and support is the plantar fasciitis night-splint. This is an item that you use while you sleep or rest to help stretch the plantar fascia and the muscles and ligaments in the backs of the calves. Tightness in this area often contributes to the development of plantar fasciitis.
It is important to only use this brace while you are sleeping or relaxing with your feet up. It is not safe to walk around wearing this item. When you wear your brace every night while you sleep, you give your tissues, ligaments and muscles a nice, long, gentle, sustained stretch that can really help relieve pain – especially the morning heel pain that is typical for people who have this condition.
Are There Any Downsides?
Regular, nightly use of the splint is an excellent way to treat plantar fasciitis, but there are both pros and cons.
On the upside:
On the downside:
What Should You Do?
Have a look at night splints online and at local medical supply shops. Try one on and see how it feels. If you think it may be helpful to you, talk with your doctor and/or podiatrist. If you come to the conclusion that this solution may be just what you need, see if your insurance will pay for it as a prescribed item of medical equipment.
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