Night Splints (Read Together series)
What are resting night splints/boots?
This is an easy summary for parents to read with their children.
Your physiotherapist has recommended that you get resting night splints.
Night splints are boots that you will wear to bed each night.
The boots keep your foot and lower leg muscles in a good position while you sleep, so they do not become stiff.
Stiff legs and ankles make it difficult to walk and play.
The night splints/boots will be made for you by a person called an orthotist.
The orthotist may put plaster on your legs to record its shape. This will make sure the boots fit you perfectly.
The boots are made from plastic and Velcro®, with some padding inside.
You will put them on every night before you go to sleep and take them off in the morning.
The boots will take time to get used to. You will need to learn how to sleep in them.
It is important to practice every night.
Look at our sheet of suggestions to help you to get used to your boots.
In time, sleeping in the boots will feel normal.
Call your local physio if you have any questions or concerns.
Compiled using images from a Boardmaker® subscription by the neuromuscular team, RCH Melbourne