Happy Feet: The Benefits Of Podiatrists From The Rugby Frontlines

If you have plantar fasciitis, then your podiatrist is likely to suggest a range of treatments. They will look to reduce your pain and discomfort. They will also treat the underlying problem.

In some cases, podiatrists recommend that people wear night splints as part of their treatment program. While these splints might contribute to fixing your foot problem over time, their main aim is to help you manage pain and discomfort.

These splints gently stretch your foot during the night. This reduces the amount of pain you might have in the mornings when you get out of bed and start to walk around. This improves your quality of life and helps relieve any discomfort you'll have later in the day.

Read on to learn more about the types of splints you can use and their pros and cons.

Sock Splints

Sock splints work pretty much like regular socks. You simply slip them on the affected foot before you go to bed.

These socks contain a flexible splint insert that helps stretch the foot from the toes to the heel. The insert works automatically as soon as you put on a sock. You don't need to make any adjustments to it.

Sock splints are easy to put on and comfortable to wear. However, they might not be able to stretch your foot fully if you have severe plantar fasciitis. You can't change the way they stretch your foot.

Sock devices typically work best if you have a minor plantar fasciitis problem. Some people also wear them for mild support towards the end of a treatment plan when the healing process is almost complete.

Adjustable Night Splints

Adjustable night splints are larger than sock splints. They are padded medical devices with straps at various points. You put the splint on every night and adjust the straps to pull your foot into the right position to get the stretch you need.

These splints work well if you have a more severe case of plantar fasciitis. You can adjust them to precisely fit your stretch needs; they have more support options than sock splints.

You're more likely to get the relief you need if you wear these splints overnight. Your podiatrist can also help you find the right positioning to get the best results from a splint.

However, some people struggle to wear these splints. They can feel bulky and heavy until you get used to wearing them.

To find out more about these devices and to get advice on which one to use to relieve your plantar fasciitis pain, talk to your company such as Sydney City Podiatry.