27 Jun Why Use Ankle Braces?
Benefits of Wearing an Ankle Brace
Has your doctor prescribed an ankle brace? An ankle brace can help you recover after injury or correct problems with your gait.
What Is an Ankle Brace?
An ankle brace is a piece of orthopedic medical equipment you wear on your ankle. An ankle that has suffered a sprain is often very weak, and a brace offers support to help it heal.
An ankle brace is lightweight and can be made of fabric, plastic, metal, or a combination of these materials. Thermoplastic braces are a modern innovation that offers advanced support and a custom fit.
Your podiatrist may prescribe an ankle brace if you’re recovering from:
• Ankle sprain
• Ankle fracture
• Foot fracture
• Ankle instability
• Dysfunctional gait
• Gout
• Achilles tendonitis
• Arthritis
Prevent Sports Injuries
An ankle brace can give athletes the stability they need to avoid injuries while playing. An estimated 25% of people who play basketball, soccer, or football experience ankle sprains. A brace gives you support during the fast, twisting motions that lead to injuries. Flexible styles provide support without hindering your movement.
Stabilize the Ankle
The ankle is one of the most frequently injured parts of the lower body. If you have an ankle sprain and don’t rehabilitate it properly, you may end up with chronic ankle instability. This reduces your balance and leads to recurring sprains. A brace can help you rehabilitate and strengthen your ankle to reduce further injuries.
Speed Recovery
If you’re in recovery from a torn ligament or another lower-body injury, an ankle brace gives you the compression you need to help your ligaments heal. Your doctor will tell you how often to wear your ankle brace and whether you should remove it for certain activities.
It’s important to wear a brace that fits properly. If it’s too tight, it will slow down blood circulation and prevent a full range of motion. If it’s too loose, you won’t get good support. A podiatrist can help you get a custom fit.
Stay Comfortable
In the past, many braces were bulky and uncomfortable. Today’s advanced braces are flexible and lightweight. They come in a variety of styles that you can wear easily with or without your shoes. Some braces are comfortable enough to wear while you’re sleeping.
Avoid Surgery
In most cases of foot and ankle injury, surgery is only required if your ankle doesn’t heal properly. Wearing a brace can help you avoid surgery and a long recovery time by promoting healing and allowing full, proper rehabilitation.
Get the Support You Need
At Shuman Podiatry & Sports Medicine, we regularly treat people with gait problems, ankle injuries, and chronic ankle instability. Our advanced braces are custom fitted for comfortable support that helps you heal. If you’re experiencing any type of ankle pain, contact us today.
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