Several key studies show that wearing a night splint “significantly improves” symptoms of plantar fasciitis. Night splints are especially effective when used as part of a day/night treatment method, tag-teaming the nighttime stretch with the use of orthotic inserts, stretching, and icing during the day.
How long should you wear a night splint?
It will be best to start wearing the night splint for a short period of time, perhaps only 1 hour, then extending it gradually each night and week. The ideal target will be to wear it overnight or for around 4 to 5 hours. This is the perfect time period for the plantar fascia tissue to extend and begin to heal.
What are night splints good for?
Night splints (braces) may be used to treat conditions such as Achilles tendinopathy and plantar fasciitis. The splint holds the foot with the toes pointed up. This position applies a constant, gentle stretch to the plantar fascia.