Ankle Braces

'Ankle sprains' are a very common occurrence in sport. According to medical statistics, ankle sprains account for approximately 10–30 per cent of all sports injuries. There is a risk of ankle injury during everyday exercise, playing ball games, running, going down stairs and even walking; if not properly rested after an injury, this may develop into 'recurrent ankle sprains'.

As the ankle is particularly vulnerable during everyday physical activity, an 'ankle brace' is an essential piece of sports equipment.

The Benefits of Ankle Braces

1. Enhanced Stability: By wrapping around the ankle, an ankle brace provides additional support, reducing excessive twisting and instability of the ankle joint, thereby lowering the risk of sprains, particularly during vigorous exercise or when moving on uneven ground.

2. Relieve pain: For those suffering from ankle arthritis, sprains or other ankle conditions, ankle supports can alleviate pain, reduce the frequency and severity of flare-ups, and improve quality of life.

3. Reduce the risk of injury: Ankle supports restrict lateral movement of the ankle, preventing sprains caused by the ankle rolling inwards or outwards. They also alleviate pressure on the injured area of the ankle joint and stabilise the joint, not only reducing the risk of injury but also helping to improve sporting performance.

4. Accelerating recovery: For an already injured ankle or following ankle fracture surgery, ankle braces provide additional support and protection, helping to speed up the recovery process.

How to choose between different ankle braces?

Choosing an ankle brace after an injury: For conditions such as anterior talofibular ligament injuries, calcaneofibular ligament injuries, or ankle swelling, a compression-strap ankle brace with strong wrapping and support pads on both sides should be selected. This applies inward pressure to tighten the soft tissues around the ankle; the external criss-cross straps provide additional reinforcement, mimicking the action of ligaments and allowing space for the soft tissues to recover.