How to Choose an Ankle Brace
Ankle braces can provide different levels of support
from mild to intense. So it is important to wear the proper brace to
allow your ankle to heal properly. A brace that is not supportive
enough can lengthen the healing process and lead to possible re-injury.
Braces are categorized by the severity of the injury: grade 1, grade 2
and grade 3. To choose the correct brace, you have to know what grade
of injury you have.
Find the ankle brace that is just right for your injury by selecting the grade of injury that best matches your symptoms:
Grade 1: Mild Symptoms
o Little to no swelling
o Mild pain
o Mild limited range of motion
o Weight bearing and walking are still possible
If
you have a mild or grade 1 sprain, use a compression brace that fits
snugly but allows full range of motion of the ankle. This type of brace
is meant to help with very mild joint support as well as provide
compression to help reduce swelling (if any). You can use either an
elastic or neoprene brace.
Grade 2: Moderate Symptoms
o Mild to intense swelling
o Moderate pain
o Moderate limited range of motion
o Weight bearing and walking are impaired
If
you have a moderate or grade 2 sprain, use a brace that compresses the
joint and provides more intense support with plastic or metal stays.
The stays help take the place of the injured ligament and not only
protect the joint from further injury, but provide you welcome relief
and stability. Elastic or Neoprene braces are acceptable.
Grade 3: Intense Symptoms
o Severe swelling & bruising
o Moderate to severe pain
o Severe limited range of motion
o Inability to bear weight
If
you have a severe or grade 3 sprain, splinting or casting and crutches
for several days to 2 weeks are necessary, followed by immobilization
in an ankle orthosis (a boot that restricts ankle range of motion), or
a brace that restricts range of motion of the ankle. After you have
healed enough to bear weight without the ankle orthosis, then use an
ankle brace with stays to continue the support of the ankle and prevent
re-injury for 4-6 weeks; then use when in high risk activities such as
basketball, soccer, jogging etc.
Why use an Elastic Brace?
Elastic
ankle braces are usually very comfortable and fit in most shoes. The
unique property of elastic webbing acts like muscle because it is made
like muscle, with long fibers stretching and contracting to conform to
the body shape. These elastic fibers constantly pull in the same manner
as muscles, helping to keep the joint stable. Elastic braces provide
mild compression which can help reduce swelling.
Why use a Neoprene Brace?
Neoprene
provides support and helps retain natural body heat for increased
circulation and warmth to a specific area or joint. The support and
increased circulation is beneficial in helping prevent injury, reduce
swelling and speed healing. Neoprene can be extremely comfortable to
wear for long periods especially if it is fabric lined.
The
information, including opinions and recommendations, contained in this
article is for general educational purposes only. Such information is
not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice,
diagnosis, or treatment. No one should act upon any information in this
article without first seeking medical advice from a qualified medical
physician with whom they have a confidential doctor/patient
relationship.
View a wide selection of quality ankle braces at PainReliever.com
Author: Dr. Tracy A. Norris D.C., C.C.E.P.
Chiropractic Physician
Certified Chiropractic Extremity Practitioner