Night Splints

There are two bones in the lower leg and 26 bones in the foot  that create many joints. There are many muscles, tendons, ligaments and nerves in the foot and ankle.

There are two ankle joints:

• Talocrural joint
• Subtalar joint

The foot can be broken into three parts:

• Rearfoot/hindfoot
• Midfoot
• Forefoot

Arches of the foot:

• Medial longitudinal arch
• Lateral longitudinal arch
• Transverse metatarsal arch

• Apply a gentle passive stretch to the Plantar Fascia and Achilles Tendon
  
• Limit excessive movements in the foot and ankle
  
  

A Certified Orthotist will assess the foot and ankle.  This can be performed with the patient in a prone position or in a seated position.  The Certified Orthotist will ensure the foot and ankle are in a corrected position and the subtalar joint will be in neutral while wearing the night splint. Extrinsic modifications such as accommodative padding may be added to the night splint.

There are a variety of night splint designs. The Certified Orthotist will determine which design is best for treatment based on individual needs and goals.

Night splints are used while sleeping.  Most night splints have some form of grip on the bottom of the brace to allow for minimal standing and walking in the night.

Living with Night Splints (follow up)

The correction provided by the night splint may take some time to get used to.  The night splint should not be painful; however, it is not uncommon to feel some initial discomfort.  The break-in period should not last more than two weeks. If you experience rubbing or blisters, please book an appointment with your Certified Orthotist for immediate attention.  If you are experiencing pain after two weeks please book a follow up appointment with your Certified Orthotist.

It is always recommended to book a follow up appointment with your Certified Orthotist if you experience any changes in condition (pain, growth).  The Certified Orthotist can determine what changes need to be made or make recommendations for alternative treatment.  It may be possible to modify or refurbish the night splint. The Certified Orthotist can reassess to determine the course of treatment with you.

Alberta Aids to Daily Living (AADL) does not provide funding for night splints for Alberta Residents with valid Alberta Healthcare.

• WCB may provide coverage with a copy of a prescription from a physician.
• NIHB may provide coverage with a copy of a prescription from a physician. 
• Private insurance may pay for a portion of the cost of your night splint.  It is important to consult your insurance company to determine the coverage that they provide. 
• Many insurance companies require a physician's prescription for night splint benefits.  Some insurance companies may request a biomechanical analysis from the Certified Orthotist.  There may be an added cost for the Certified Orthotist to provide this report.