According to the American Podiatric Medical Association, a whopping 2 million people in the United States suffer from the debilitating condition of plantar fasciitis. If you are a runner, struggle with obesity, or have a job that always demands you to be on your feet, you might have experienced this disabling problem.
Using plantar fasciitis shoes & night splint is one of the most effective methods to deal with this problem, making your day a little more manageable—especially the first few steps in the morning.
But how do you find a night splint that works for you? Our detailed buyer’s guide will help you make this critical decision. But first, let us take you through our top picks on the market below.
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Buyer’s Guide For Plantar Fasciitis Night Splints
Getting a night splint for yourself can be life-changing, but how do you ascertain to make the perfect choice for yourself? There are various factors that we recommend you to pay attention to when making the final purchase. This buying guide will help you get the best plantar fasciitis night splint!
Why Should You Wear A Splint At Night?
Anyone dealing with plantar fasciitis knows that the worst time of the day for them is the morning! After a long night of immobility and rest, your fascia will require to be stretched again in the morning, causing you debilitating pain when you take the first few steps. A night splint helps you keep your foot positioned at a 90-degree angle, keeping your fascia stretched throughout the night. Due to this, you will not have to deal with inflammation or pain at dawn.
Night splints target the Achilles Tendon as well as calf muscles, and these areas have been known to affect and worsen plantar fasciitis. By sustaining a stretch in these areas, you will be able to achieve a lot of relief in your affected feet.
There are a few drawbacks that you have to work around with when wearing a night splint. Some people complain that the cumbersome effect of having it on the feet throughout the night causes discomfort to them. Many compare this feeling to wearing a boot to bed, snow boot to be specific. Therefore, it will take some time to get accustomed to it.
However, it is fair to say that the people who stick to wearing it despite the inconvenience find more long-term relief and solutions to their foot problems.
Different Types Of Night Splints
Once you decide on getting yourself a night splint, you must also determine the type of night splint you’d want to wear. There are currently the below two types of night splints available on the market:
Posterior Night Splint: This is the most common type of night splints found. It is also popularly known as the boot splint. It usually comes laden with several adjustable straps, although it does tend to be bulkier and more substantial than other options. Due to this characteristic, people often complain of developing numbness while sleeping. However, this is a problem that can be solved by adjusting the straps properly.
These splints are too bulky to walk around. So do bear that in mind if you suffer from sleep apnea or any other condition which causes you to wake up several times in a night to pee.
Dorsal Night Splints: If you’re looking for a lighter solution, you have the dorsal splints. This type is a little less bulky and a little more comfortable. However, this also serves as a reason why they fail to stretch the foot correctly. It usually comes with a hard plastic piece that supports the shinbone. It is used to keep your forefoot at a 90-degree angle all through the night.
They tend to move from their place sometimes, so we recommend that you look for a sturdier option if you deal with severe plantar fasciitis.
How to Choose the Best Plantar Fasciitis Night Splint?
It can be overwhelming to look for a night splint. Maybe your podiatrist recommended you to get one, or you stumbled upon this solution while researching. This is a relatively new concept for many people, which makes it so difficult to find the perfect product for yourself. Thereby, we have created this guide below to help you choose the best plantar fasciitis night splint.
Fit:
It is pertinent to ensure that the brace you choose for yourself hugs your feet like a glove. It is recommended that you look for a night splint that is neither too tight nor too loose, and should have a snug fit. This will be a little more complicated than you assume, as there will be numerous sizes to choose from. The market has options for both one-size-fits-all models as well as sizes that fit individual needs. It will be more convenient if you could find the latter, although you will always have adjustable straps to work with in case you can’t.
Breathability
Breathability is yet another, more important thing to consider when it comes to plantar fasciitis night splints. A proper flow of air is essential to keeping your feet healthy and happy throughout the night. One of the main reasons why people tend to avoid night splints is because they end up with suffocating braces that leave their feet numb and sweaty. This is why you must focus on the material of the brace when purchasing one.
Maintenance
A night splint will hug your feet every day for almost 6-8 hours. So it is evident that after months of wearing it, there will come a time when you will have to sit down and clean your night splint. If you want to make this maintenance process convenient and quick, then look for braces made with washable materials. Some braces are stiched with fabrics that do you accumulate dirt or muck and are also washed easily. You do not want to spend hours and hours cleaning your night splint, making your condition worse.
Feedback
If you’re relatively new in the market of night splints, you can look for previous customer feedback to help you navigate your purchase. While it is true that not everybody will like a product, you should save yourself and run if every second customer review is negative. Customer reviews can help you understand the performance of the night splint and the post-sale service provided by a brand. This will make your buying decision a piece of cake.
Type of Night splint
We have already discussed two primary types of night splints available on the market above—dorsal and posterior (no boot) brace. Both of these designs have their pros and cons; you must decide which one works for you according to your usage before making the final purchase. The main distinctions between these two types are the weight and construction. While the boot splint leans more toward a bulkier design, covering a large area of your feet, the dorsal splint is a slightly smaller product. We recommend the former if your plantar fasciitis condition is severe.
Pricing
Pricing, when it comes to night splints, can be a little misleading. You will have a broad price range to work around with, looking for the perfect plantar fasciitis night splint for yourself. If you’re lucky, you might find a good deal for yourself that suits your requirement and budget. However, it is always recommended to opt for quality over cost. Remember, while the right decision will provide you with long-term relief, a wrong one could make your nights even more uncomfortable.
Best Plantar Fasciitis Night Splints in 2023 (According To Our Research & Hundreds of Tests)
We have Tested, ranked, and reviewed the Best Night Splints for Plantar Fasciitis out of 500+ options on the market. Have a look and find a product that suits your requirement.
1. Bird and Cronin Night Splint
Bird and Cronin have been leading manufacturers providing orthopedic solutions to thousands of people. When it comes to the treatment and management of plantar fasciitis, this brand offers you a varied catalog—including this night splint. We highly recommend this product due to its lightweight and adjustable qualities, making it an excellent choice for both the young and elderly.
Considering its distinct qualities, we believe it is a substantial investment for the foot health of anyone who suffers from plantar fasciitis. The product is one of the most affordable models available on the market, but that doesn’t compromise comfort or quality, even a bit. It comes with several adjustable flexion straps that provide you the correct amount of pressure on your feet for enhanced healing.
It is fitted with adequate foam padding, so your feet are comfortable and cushioned throughout the night. You can even wear it while walking as it does not feel too heavy on the feet. With the slip-resistant qualities in the sole area, the product provides you enough stability and confidence. The splint comes in a variety of sizes ranging from 7.5 to 10, helping most individuals enjoy its benefits.
What we love (Benefits):
- Lightweight and breathable construction
- Made with hypoallergenic substances
- Caters to multiple feet sizes and shapes with an open front design
- Added comfort with foam padding
Keep in mind (Drawbacks):
- Strapping placement is inconvenient for some
Our Score: 9.8/10
2. Mars Wellness Plantar Fasciitis Posterior Night Splint
Many previous customers who have used the Mars Wellness Night Splint, agree that it has changed how they look at their condition. This night splint has been designed to alleviate the pain and symptoms associated with plantar fasciitis quickly. We would like to shed light on some of the best features this product has to provide.
The product comes with dual tension straps, along with additional three padded straps and a foot wedge. These features allow your feet to fight immobilization and make it easier for you to move around with the night splint on. It keeps your feet stretched at a 90-degree angle throughout the night, which does not let the fascia shorten. With the removable and washable fabric, it is also extremely convenient to maintain the product.
With the data we have collected, we ascertain this night splint to be an excellent choice to invest in for your foot health.
What we love (Benefits):
- Quick response and resolution on negative feedback
- Budget-friendly costing
- Easy to clean and maintain with washable fabric
- Available in many sizes
Keep in mind (Drawbacks):
- Not available in sizes 6.5 and below
- Some experiences of numbness in the toe area with sustained stretch
Our Score: 9.4/10
3. Nice Stretch 90 Patented Plantar Fasciitis Night Splint
If you’re looking for a long-term fix for your plantar fasciitis problem, the Nice Stretch 90 comes with a patented technology that keeps your feet positioned at a fixed angle throughout the night. The passive stretch capability uses the pull of your body to sustain the stretch at your feet. It also manages to keep your feet fresh, comfortable, and inflammation-free with cold therapy.
This product can prove to be an effective treatment for runners and the elderly. People suffering from Achilles tendonitis, plantar flexion contractures, and other painful foot conditions see consistent improvement by using this night splint. It is also budget-friendly and accessible to a large crowd.
What we love (Benefits):
- Provides adequate comfort
- Manages to provide improvement within a couple of weeks
- Light on the pocket
- Comes with a non-skid tread for proper balance
- A removable ice-pack helps deal with inflammation
Keep in mind (Drawbacks):
- Heavy to manage around
Our Score: 9.0/10
4. AlphaBrace PF Splint
We are impressed with the lightweight profile of this AlphaBrace PF Splint. Due to such a construction, it can allow your feet to breathe and move around quickly. AlphaBrace is a medical brand that offers painless solutions for deep-rooted foot problems like plantar fasciitis. The splint features adjustable straps that are padded with soft Lycra on the inside. They are removable and washable; thereby, making it easier for you to maintain the product.
You will also be provided a foam wedge that can be used near the toe area to adjust the pressure. Although lightweight, the product does not compromise on sturdiness. A consistent stretch of the fascia ligament at night will reduce the discomfort of the first steps in the morning.
What we love (Benefits):
- Breathable and lightweight construction
- Comes with a foam wedge to adjust the stretch
- Padded straps are removable and washable
Keep in mind (Drawbacks):
- Customers complain of rigid buckles that don’t open easily
Our Score: 8.8/10
5. StrictlyStability Night Sock for Plantar Fasciitis and Achilles Tendonitis
It is not easy to live with a foot condition like plantar fasciitis. However, this StabilityAce Plantar Fasciitis Night Splint can make it bearable. If you are willing to improve this foot problem, this product is laden with qualities that will help you. We recommend you pair it with support socks for added comfort and relief. It is one of the most lightweight and compact products we have listed here.
Although not right away, you will undoubtedly notice an improvement in your condition with regular usage. It always rewards to be patient with a night splint in the long run. We believe this product is ideal for runners looking to manage their problems without restricting their activities.
What we love (Benefits):
- Does not have a bulky build
- You can wear the splint on both feet
- Allows you to walk around with the splint
Keep in mind (Drawbacks):
- Not ideal for severe foot conditions
- Not suitable for people with high arches
Our Score: 8.5/10
6. StrictlyStability Achilles Tendonitis Support Strap Brace
Strictly Stability Night Strap is equipped with excellent functionality and affordability. As compared to other posterior or dorsal splints, this one right here is quite lightweight and easy to manage. The product comes with padded buckles that ensure the mobility of your foot is not restricted when you go to sleep.
You can wear this product anywhere you go, along with any sneaker-type shoe of your choice. It can also be worn in both the feet and is currently available in multiple shoe sizes to cater to a variety of people. Although, the feedback of some customers says the splint doesn’t fit everybody the same.
What we love (Benefits):
- Lightweight as compared to other boot-type night splints
- Provides quick relief in foot and heel pain
- Comes with padded buckles for added comfort
- Durable design
Keep in mind (Drawbacks):
- The fit could be better
Our Score: 8.2/10
7. Vive Plantar Fasciitis Night Splint
The Vive Night Brace is an excellent product for people dealing with plantar fasciitis pain. It has been designed to provide ample cushioning to the wearer, alleviating symptoms of various foot conditions almost immediately. The product features a couple of foot wedges that allow you to position the splint according to your liking. We recommend this product as it includes a trigger point spike ball that massages the foot as well!
This splint comes with three velcro straps that can be used in adjusting the stretch and pressure you receive from the product. People who work in construction, retail, or are teachers can benefit a huge deal with this comfortable splint. The product comes with a 60-day unconditional guarantee, so your purchase is secure.
What we love (Benefits):
- Available in at least four different sizes
- Includes wedges and foot massage ball
- Timely response to negative feedback with solution
- Makes morning steps bearable
Keep in mind (Drawbacks):
- Customer complains that velcro straps aren’t durable
Read more: Best slippers for arch support
Our Score: 8.2/10
8. Alpha Medical Night Splint
Sometimes the most simple things can yield the maximum benefits. This stands especially true with the Alpha Medical Night Splint. This product comes with a simple design used to provide relief from the discomfort of plantar fasciitis. Any added pressure on your feet is proven to worsen foot conditions, which is why this medical night splint is lightweight and breathable!
The product features a lightweight profile and padded straps that bring more convenience to the table, when your fascia will be stretched throughout the night, not only your mornings but also throughout the day.
What we love (Benefits):
- Currently available in three sizes
- Comes with a removable and washable pad
- Does not let sweat accumulate
Keep in mind (Drawbacks):
- Not ideal for wide feet types
- Straps can be uncomfortable for some
Read more: Best insoles for plantar fasciitis
Our Score: 8.1/10
9. Cramer Dorsal Night Splint
If boot braces are not your thing, you can opt for a less bulky option of a dorsal night splint—especially the Cramer Dorsal Night Splint. The product is made with breathable material, which is hypoallergenic and lightweight. By stretching your feet at a sustained 90-degree angle through the night, you will notice minor discomforts vanishing away.
This sleep support offers you quick pain relief, and your feet will be kept at a neutral position in the small anterior dorsal clamshell design. This allows proper healing, support, and comfort from your arch to the shinbone. The anti-slip foot pad helps you walk around the house without risking a fall and further injuring your feet.
What we love (Benefits):
- Not too heavy-weight or bulky
- Does not retain heat at night
- Keeps your feet comforted throughout the night
Keep in mind (Drawbacks):
- Some customers complain of experiencing a sting-like feeling when wearing the product
- Customer support could be better
Our Score: 7.9/10
10. The Strassburg Sock
If your condition isn’t too severe, you don’t need to wear the big night splints we have discussed before. This sock splint works well in stretching your fascia and allowing you to wake up with pain-less, healthy feet. These socks do not come with a hard plastic spine, as seen in more traditional night splints. Instead, it keeps things low-profile and straightforward.
Due to the sock material, it is incredibly stretchy and comes in a one-size-fits-all model. Naturally, it is breathable and lightweight and does not allow heat to retain in your feet. We recommend this product even as a preventive measure for people who are always on their feet.
What we love (Benefits):
- Comfortable for both narrow and wide feet types
- Provides instant results in mild conditions
- Easy to wash and maintain
Keep in mind (Drawbacks):
- Too costly for the features it provides
Read more: Best walking shoes for plantar fasciitis
Our Score: 7.8/10
FAQs about Plantar Fasciitis Night Splints
Do plantar fasciitis night splints work?
A night splint is an effective solution to your plantar fasciitis problem. It primarily holds your feet at a 90-degree angle to keep your fascia from shortening at night. With this method, you will be able to deal with the first few steps in the morning that you dread so much. These night splints come in two different types, which cater to varying severities and requirements.
How long should you wear a night splint?
Initially, you can start by wearing them for an hour each day. This will help you get accustomed to the weight and fit of the product. Gradually extend the duration to up to an entire night (roughly 6 to 8 hours). Ensure you pick the correct fit and sizing to avoid discomforts like numbness and sweat accumulation.
How tight should night splint?
It should be tight enough to keep your feet at a 90-degree angle, but not so tight that you end up putting pressure on your already painful feet. Look for night splints with adjustable straps to find a fit in tune with your foot shape and size. Since you will be wearing the brace for several hours at a stretch, your feet should be able to breathe.
How much do splints for plantar fasciitis cost?
Night splints can cost you anywhere around 40 to 100 USD. This variation in cost is dependent on the material, features, brand, and type of night splint. Our buyer’s guide will help you scan through different products and find the one that suits your budget and requirement.
The bottom line:
Wearing a plantar fasciitis night splint can prove to be a wise decision when you start achieving noticeable improvement. To find the perfect fit for yourself, consider the size, type, material, pricing, and other factors of the products. According to our Research & Tests, the Bird and Cronin Night Splint accommodates almost all users’ requirements, no matter the reason behind them developing the condition.
Dr Kristine has a Doctorate of Podiatric Medicine from New York College of Podiatric Medicine, and currently assists our team of shoe experts by fact-checking and confirming the information presented to the readers. As a podiatrist, she has previously worked with numerous athletes, working professionals, and high to low activity individuals on the impacts of a lifestyle on their feet. She has submitted many research papers on the role of the correct footwear in foot health and how to take adequate care of your feet.
Previously, she worked in a foot clinic attached to a hospital, before she decided to have a private practice in 2012. She has more than 15 years of experience in foot health and has been incredibly gracious in providing her expertise to the Wearsty team! Her patients have ranged from ordinary people ailing with foot problems regarding obesity, old age, and foot stress—to athletes, runners, and workers who have demanding routines.
