How Do Ankle Braces Work?

Whether you’re an athlete or someone who had one wrong misstep, landing you with an ankle sprain, you must know how dreadful the pain can be. Ankle injuries are the most common injuries out there, and the level of pain can be mild to severe. That’s why ankle braces are the best option to tackle this inconvenient and painful situation.

In this blog, we will read about how ankle braces work and which one works best for your condition. 

Why does your ankle need support when injured?

Your ankle is the most complex part of your body, made up of bones, ligaments, muscles, and tendons. It supports your entire body weight to let you walk, run, and jump. So, imagine if you end up having it injured; it will lead to instability and immobility. 

One of the most common ankle injuries is a sprain, when the ligament holding the bones together is overstretched or torn, causing immense pain, swelling, inflammation, and instability. That’s where you’ll need an ankle brace for sprain. 

How do Ankle Support Braces work?

Ankle braces work by providing extra support for the ankle joint. There are a variety of designs suitable for different conditions. The question is: how exactly do they support ankle pain or injury? Here’s how they work:

1. Ankle braces are used for compression. They fit snugly around the ankle, compressing it to relieve the swelling and inflammation by improving blood circulation. 
2. In the case of a severe injury, it serves the purpose of limiting your movements. By restricting the motions, the ankle brace will protect your ligament from further damage and let it heal accordingly. 
3. Ankle supports can also take it upon themselves to redistribute the forces acting on your ankle while walking or running. The braces take the load across the broader area, reducing strain. 
4. When you injure your ankle, your body might not know the status or position of your ankle, which can lead to even more harm. The braces, however, act as a reminder to be more cautious with your motions. 

Ankle Braces for Different Situations

Not all ankle braces are created equal, and choosing the right one depends on what you need. Here are some types of braces: 

Compression Sleeves

 

This is a lightweight elastic sleeve that provides mild compression. These are a great choice for mild injuries or as a precautionary tool during physical training. 

Lace-up Braces

 

These offer more support than compression sleeves and tie up well for moderate injuries. It stabilizes your ankle, leaving room for some small movements. These types of braces are perfect for athletes. 

Rigid Braces

 

These types of ankle braces restrict every motion and movement. They’re used for more severe injuries than sprained or twisted ankles. They’re also suitable options for the post-surgery period, providing extra support and protection during the healing period. 

So, yes, ankle braces do work wonders for injured ankles. You can check out your preferred ankle support brace from Sporlastic’s wide collection. However, always remember to consult with a specialist. Stay healthy and stay running!