Actively Recruiting
Dynamic Versus Static Night Splinting of Plantar Fasciitis
Led by Stanford University · Updated on 2025-06-15
200
Participants Needed
2
Research Sites
N/A
Total Duration
On this page
AI-Summary
What this Trial Is About
Researchers are evaluating two types of night splints—static and dynamic—for treating plantar fasciitis, a painful foot condition characterized by heel pain that worsens with weightbearing. The study aims to determine if there is any difference in improvement of foot motion between the two splinting methods. This trial is interventional and randomized, conducted without any blinding. Participants will be randomly assigned to use either the conventional static splint, which holds the foot in a fixed position, or a dynamic splint that uses an adjustable tension spring to allow some movement with less pain. Both devices are intended to replace the need for boot immobilization. Treatments will be monitored over several months to assess pain relief and foot function. During the study, participants will be followed up at 1, 3, and 6 months to check for pain absence and improvements using the Foot Function Index. Researchers will track how well the splints reduce pain and improve mobility. The study includes assessments of foot function and pain levels, with no masking involved. Participation lasts at least six months, allowing detailed observation of the splints' effects over time.
CONDITIONS
Brief Title
Dynamic Versus Static Night Splinting of Plantar Fasciitis
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- Over 18 years of age and able to walk without a walking aid
- Diagnosed with acute plantar fasciitis (heel pain less than 6 months) with typical symptoms such as first-step pain and tenderness over the heel
- Allowed to use icing, NSAIDs (like ibuprofen), custom shoe inserts, and diagnostic ultrasound
You will not qualify if you...
- Under 18 years old or requires a walking aid
- Diagnosed with arthritis of the ankle, midfoot, or forefoot, inflammatory arthritis, gout, turf toe, hallux rigidus, hallux limitus, sesamoiditis, tendonitis or tendinopathy
- History of plantar fascia tear or rupture
- Has fibromyalgia, neuralgia, neuropathy, or peripheral vascular disease
- Prior trauma or fracture to the heel
- Infection, corns, calluses, or ingrown nails
- Symptoms lasting more than 6 months
- Did not respond to previous splint treatments
- Prior injection or surgery on the plantar fascia
- Recent use of narcotic pain medications
AI-Screening
AI-Powered Screening
Complete this quick 3-step screening to check your eligibility
Your Study Journey
Duration - 2 to 4 weeks
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial.
1 visit (in-person)
Duration - 6 months
Participants use either a static or dynamic night splint to treat plantar fasciitis.
Visits at 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months for assessment
Trial Site Locations
Total: 2 locations
1
Stanford University School of Medicine
Palo Alto, California, United States, 94063
Actively Recruiting
2
Stanford outpatient center
Redwood City, California, United States, 84063
Actively Recruiting
Research Team
P
Prerna Arora
How is the study designed?
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Masking
NONE
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Model
PARALLEL
Primary Purpose
TREATMENT
Number of Arms
2
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