Supporting Your Foot or Lower Leg with a Splint or Wrap
If you are suffering from foot or lower-leg pain caused by an injury or another problem, a splint, wrap, or other supportive device can be an excellent way to decrease or eliminate your discomfort. These devices support the foot and ankle thereby preventing further injury, minimizing swelling and pain, and facilitating healing.
If you are experiencing foot or lower-leg pain, contact your doctor today. Your physician can assess your condition and determine if supports will provide the relief you need.
Candidates for lower-leg and foot supports
Foot and lower-leg supports can be used to solve a number of problems, including:
Treatment options
Support options include:
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Prescription orthotics: Orthotics are custom devices crafted to precisely fit a patient’s foot or leg, minimizing stress on the joints, bones, and muscles. Some orthotics also rework the anatomical makeup of the foot or leg over time, thereby improving its function.
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Splints, including night splints: Splints reduce or prevent contraction of the foot and leg muscles, thereby reducing pain caused by over-contraction.
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Wraps: Wraps, including supportive bandages and hot and cold packs, support the feet and ankles while minimizing discomfort.
Using supports
The process involved in utilizing a support depends on the type of device. Many prescription orthotics require approximately two visits to the doctor’s office: one visit to fit the patient for the device, and a second to apply the device.
However, most splints and wraps may be self-applied, in line with the doctor’s instructions. When worn as instructed, supports are often able to minimize patients’ discomfort and restore functioning to the foot.
If you are suffering from foot or lower-leg pain and would like more information about pain management options, contact your doctor today to learn more about splints, wraps, and other supports. Your doctor can assess your condition and provide you with the treatment you need.