ELEMENTS® Stretch-Up Plantar Fasciitis Sock

The Elements Stretch-Up Sock is a night splint used for treating Plantar Fasciitis.

The Elements Stretch-Up Sock can be used when sitting and at night to stretch the foot and help to relieve pain caused by Plantar Fasciitis.  It has been shown to help speed up healing.  This simple sock is designed to keep tension on the tissue (plantar fascia) and to help it heal in a stretched position. 

RESEARCH STUDY

In an open retrospective study by *Barry et. al. looking into the effects of an additional treatment for Plantar Fasciitis, to the standard regime, was investigated.   In the study, 71 patients were dedicated to use a calf stretching program during the day and 89 patients used a prefabricated night splint such as the Elements Stretch-Up Sock.

The study showed that the night splint group had significant shorter recovery time, fewer re-visits until recovery and less other interventions compared to the stretching group.

Recovery time Night Splint (such as the Elements Stretch-Up Sock) – average recovery time - 18.5 days

Recovery time Daytime Calf Stretching Program – average recovery time - 58.6 days

*Barry L.D. et al, The Journal of Foot & Ankle Surgery, 41(4):221-227, 2002

HOW DOES THE ELEMENTS STRETCH-UP SOCK WORK?

The Elements Stretch-Up sock is aimed to stretch the plantar fascia (tissue on the bottom of your foot) which is inflamed, in an active and controlled way, so it heals in a stretched position at night.

The night splint holds the forefoot and ankle joints in a slight upward flexion, thereby preventing the plantar fascia from retracting and healing in a contracted position.  In the morning the plantar fascia is at its maximum stretch which reduces or eliminates the sharp pain that often occurs during the first steps.

Treatment with the Elements Stretch Up Sock is a complementary therapy.  It is important to contact your treating health care provider for additional treatment advice.

FEATURES AND BENEFITS

• Stretches the plantar fascia in an active and controlled way at night.
• Prevents the plantar fascia from healing in a contracted position during the night.
• Reduces the pain that is usually experienced during the first steps in the morning.
• Soft and safe to use when applied correctly.
• Does not lock the ankle joint.
• Very simple and easy to use.
• Practical to use when travelling.

TREATMENT ADVICE

Start the treatment gradually.  Do not pull the strap that holds the toes in an upward position too hard.  Overstretching of the toes can result in discomfort.

NOTE:  Before starting the treatment with the Elements Stretch-Up Sock,  it is important to first read the user instructions.

RECOMMENDED RANGE OF APPLICATION

You can use the splint during the evening or at night while sleeping for the treatment of Plantar Fasciitis.

MATERIAL SPECIFICATIONS

• Made from 100% Spandex
• This product does not contain Latex, and is not flame retardant.

WASHING INSTRUCTIONS

Close all Velcro prior to laundering. Machine wash in 40°C (104°F). Ideally, use a washing bag. Dry flat. Do not tumble dry or dry clean. Wash with similar colours.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

This night splint should not be used if you have any of the following:  Circulatory problems, open sores on the legs or feet, diabetes, edema, hammertoes, skin problems, and / or during pregnancy.  The sock should not be used by anyone who had recent surgery of the foot and / or leg.

Sizing:

Measure around the largest part of your calf in centimetres.