Night splints are used for a variety of reasons, from controlling foot problems, such as heel spurs or plantar fasciitis, to stabilizing errant Achilles tendons. Othotists make customized foot splints, which are called ankle-foot orthotics, or AFOs. AFOs can cover just the foot up to the ankle, or they can continue up to the knee. Night splints allow for healing and straightening and can help to maintain range of motion in the ankle and foot for those with conditions such as muscular dystrophy.
Step 1
Use an ice wrap on your foot for 20 minutes, if possible, to reduce any inflammation that was created during the day.
Step 2
Wear cotton socks to avoid sweating and sticking to the surface of a night splint, which is usually made of plastic or metal. Socks also help increase the life of the splint by not transferring germs and odors from your feet to the splint.
Step 3
Step onto the splint from a sitting position with your knee bent over the foot on which you are putting the splint to stretch your tendons appropriately. Flex your foot slightly as you push your heel to the back of the footrest. Wrap the Velcro straps across the top of the foot first to settle your foot in place. Follow that with the straps that wrap around the ankle and calf.
Step 4
Experiment with various angles to get the desired stretch from the splint. Splints often are required to stretch tightened tendons and avoid pain in the morning after waking. Tightened tendons can make walking difficult until they are loosened. Try 5 degrees, 10 degrees or no angle to see which works best. If you can get out of bed and feel no pain with your first few steps, then you've found the right angle for the splint.
Tips and Warnings
- According to the National Institutes of Health, night splints work best in treating ankle and foot problems when used in conjunction with daytime treatments, such as arch supports.
- Don't tighten the Velcro straps so tightly that they cut off circulation. They need to be snug enough to hold the splint in place, while giving your foot enough room so that none of the nerves are pinched. The splint should feel comfortable, lightly tugging on the heel and back of the ankle.
Things You'll Need
- Cotton socks
