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How Does a Plantar Fasciitis Night Splint Work?
Plantar fasciitis causes sharp heel pain when you stand up each morning. That’s because the band of tissue under your foot tightens while you sleep. Night splints hold your foot in a gentle stretch overnight. This keeps the tissue from tightening, so you wake up with less pain and your foot can heal.
Quick Guide: How Night Splints Help
Why Night Splints?
During sleep, your foot naturally points downward. That lets the plantar fascia contract and tighten. Night splints hold your foot at a slight lift—usually around 90°—so the fascia stays stretched. By stopping overnight tightening, you reduce morning “first-step” pain and give the tissue time to repair.
- Prevents Tightening: Keeps tissue lengthened all night.
- Reduces Pain: Less sharp heel pain on waking.
- Speeds Healing: Continuous gentle stretch aids recovery.
Types of Night Splints
- Soft 90° Boot Splint: A padded boot that holds your foot at exactly a right angle. The soft liner and wide straps wrap around your calf and foot. It delivers a firm, consistent stretch—ideal for moderate to severe pain.
- Dorsal Strap Splint: A low-profile brace that straps over the top of your foot and shin. It keeps your foot flexed with minimal bulk, making it easier to roll over in bed and more comfortable for lighter support needs.
Tip: If you prefer a precise stretch and don’t mind a sturdier boot, choose the 90° splint. If you want less bulk and still need overnight hold, go with the dorsal strap design.
Using & Caring for Your Splint
- Wear Overnight: Put it on before bedtime and leave it on 6–8 hours.
- Adjust Snugly: Tighten straps so it’s secure but not painful.
- Morning Stretch: After removing, do 3 sets of calf raises and 30-second plantar fascia stretches.
- Rotate Feet: Alternate which foot you treat first to let the other rest.
- Break-In Period: If new, start with 2–3 hours the first night and add an hour each night.
- Clean Weekly: Wipe padding with mild soap and air-dry completely before reuse.
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How to fit your night splint
Recommended Night Splints for Plantar Fasciitis
Need Help Choosing?
Not sure which splint fits you best? Our Brace Direct experts can guide you to the right overnight support for faster, pain-free mornings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fastest way to fix plantar fasciitis? + –
No single method works for everyone, but combining rest, foot exercises, and a supportive brace often eases symptoms quickly. Many people also find relief by applying ice to reduce inflammation, wearing shoes with arch support, and gradually stretching the calf muscles. Consistency with these measures helps hasten recovery.
Do I need surgery for plantar fasciitis? + –
In most cases, no. Plantar fasciitis usually responds to conservative treatments like night splints, stretching, and footwear modifications. Surgery is considered a last resort when chronic heel pain persists despite several months of regular therapy, bracing, or injections.
Can a night splint really help with morning heel pain? + –
Yes. Night splints hold the foot in a neutral or slightly stretched position, preventing the plantar fascia from tightening overnight. This significantly reduces the sharp, first-step pain many people experience in the morning, accelerating overall recovery and comfort.
Which night splint is best for advanced plantar fasciitis? + –
Look for a brace that maintains a consistent 90-degree angle, ensuring the fascia remains gently stretched. A product like the Brace Align 90 Degree Night Medical Splint (PDAC L4396 L4397) offers adjustable straps and comfortable padding to minimize heel tension throughout the night.
Brace Align 90 Degree Night Medical Splint
Are custom orthotics necessary for plantar fasciitis relief? + –
Not always. Many people find that a combination of supportive footwear, braces or splints, and exercises is enough to control pain. However, custom orthotics can add targeted arch support if you have unique foot mechanics or persistent heel pain that standard insoles don’t address.
