Saturday, March 12, 2011

Finding Relief With A Plantar Fasciitis Night Splint

If you suddenly get a pain in your heel chances are you have what is called plantar fasciitis. This is caused by an irritation to the plantar fascia which is a connective tissue running across the bottom of your foot and supporting the arch. This tissue takes the brunt of each step you take during the day. One of the methods used to relieve this pain is using a plantar fasciitis night splint.

Studies have been conducted to try to find a way to relieve this situation as you are unable to stand or walk, without a great deal of pain, when it is present. A number of different treatments, including the plantar fasciitis night splint, has been used to treat this ailment. Some treatments are used during the day and some in the evening.

Ice and anti-inflammatory medications, at the end of the day, have been suggested. Care must be taken, however that the medication doesn't cause damage to the stomach or kidneys which happens if too many are taken. Stretching and strengthening have also been suggested. The purpose of this treatment is to strengthen the muscles and stretch the ligament in the foot. This is usually done in the morning when getting out of bed. Other exercises are designed to stretch the calf at the same time.

Arch supports, which can be purchased over the counter or made to order have been helpful in some cases to relieve the pain while walking. In addition, there are cushioned heel cups that provide a soft area for the heel at all times. Corticosteroid injected directly into the main pain area also has a fairly high success rate. However, as with any invasion procedure there is always the possibility of an internal injury.

As a last resort you can turn to surgery. In this case, the surgeon places an endoscope into the foot and makes a cut in the connective tissue. This relieves the pressure and new tissue will re-grow in approximately a month. Usually you can return to work within a week or so, depending on the type of work you do.

The AAFP (American Academy of Family Physicians) reports an improvement in a large number of people who have used night splints on a regular basis. This allows you to find relief without resorting to the more drastic measures. It also allows you less pain and tension when first arising in the morning.

The plantar fasciitis night splint is one of the most popular brands. This splint keeps the foot in a unchanging position and the leg's calf stretched out during the night. They are carefully manufactured from plaster or fiberglass and molded to the shape of a person's foot. This means that they are not uncomfortable to wear when you are sleeping.

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