The BEST Ankle Braces [Podiatrist Guide for Foot & Ankle Pain]

What Conditions are Ankle Braces For?

Ankle braces can be helpful in a variety of conditions, including:

Ankle sprains:

• Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries that ankle braces are used for. An ankle brace can help provide support and stability to the ankle joint, reducing the risk of further injury and aiding in healing.

Ankle braces can be effective in the treatment and prevention of ankle sprains. Here are some studies that have looked at the effectiveness of ankle braces for sprained ankles:

1. Prevention of Ankle Sprains: A study published in the Journal of Athletic Training found that wearing an ankle brace can reduce the incidence of ankle sprains in athletes. The study analyzed data from high school basketball players throughout a season and found that those who wore an ankle brace had a lower incidence of ankle sprains compared to those who did not wear an ankle brace.
2. Treatment of Ankle Sprains: A study published in the British Medical Journal found that using an ankle brace as part of treating ankle sprains can reduce pain and improve function. The study included individuals with ankle sprains who were randomly assigned to either wear an ankle brace or not. The study found that those who wore an ankle brace had less pain and better function compared to those who did not wear an ankle brace.
3. Prevention of Recurrent Ankle Sprains: A study published in the American Journal of Sports Medicine found that wearing an ankle brace can reduce the risk of recurrent ankle sprains in individuals with a history of ankle sprains. The study included individuals with a history of ankle sprains who were randomly assigned to either wear an ankle brace or not. The study found that those who wore an ankle brace had a lower incidence of recurrent ankle sprains compared to those who did not wear an ankle brace.
4. Effectiveness of Different Types of Ankle Braces: A study published in the Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy compared the efficacy of different ankle braces for preventing ankle sprains. The study found that lace-up ankle braces were more effective than semi-rigid ankle braces in reducing the risk of ankle sprains.

Ankle Sprain Treatment:

Treating ankle sprains often involves the RICE method: rest, ice, compression, and elevation. An ankle brace can be used as part of the compression component of this treatment method, providing support and stability to the ankle joint. In addition to using an ankle brace, it is essential to rest the affected ankle, apply ice to reduce swelling and elevate the ankle to reduce inflammation.

Physical therapy can also be an effective treatment for ankle sprains, helping to improve the range of motion, strengthen the ankle joint, and reduce the risk of future injuries. Surgery may sometimes be necessary to repair a severely sprained ankle.

It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best treatment plan for your specific condition. They can help you determine if an ankle brace is appropriate for your injury and recommend additional treatments.

Chronic ankle instability:

Chronic ankle instability is when the ankle joint is repeatedly sprained, leading to ongoing pain and instability. An ankle brace can help provide support and stability to the ankle joint, reducing the risk of further injury and improving overall ankle function.

Ankle braces can be an effective treatment for chronic ankle sprains, which are recurrent ankle sprains that occur over a long period. Here are some studies that have looked at the effectiveness of ankle braces for the treatment of chronic ankle sprains:

1. Improving Ankle Stability: A study published in the Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy found that wearing an ankle brace can improve ankle stability in individuals with chronic ankle instability. The study included individuals with a history of ankle sprains who were randomly assigned to either wear an ankle brace or not. The study found that those who wore an ankle brace had improved ankle stability compared to those who did not wear an ankle brace.
2. Reducing Pain and Improving Function: A study published in the Journal of Athletic Training found that wearing an ankle brace can reduce pain and improve function in individuals with chronic ankle instability. The study included individuals with a history of ankle sprains who were randomly assigned to either wear an ankle brace or not. The study found that those who wore an ankle brace had less pain and better function compared to those who did not wear an ankle brace.
3. Improved Proprioception: A study published in the Journal of Sport Rehabilitation found that wearing an ankle brace can improve proprioception, which is the body’s ability to sense its position and movements. The study included individuals with chronic ankle instability who were randomly assigned to either wear an ankle brace or not. The study found that those who wore an ankle brace had improved proprioception compared to those who did not wear an ankle brace.

Overall, these studies suggest that ankle braces can be effective in the treatment of chronic ankle sprains. Ankle braces can improve ankle stability and reduce pain, function, and proprioception. However, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate type of ankle brace for your specific injury and to ensure that it fits properly for maximum effectiveness. Physical therapy and other treatments may also be recommended, in addition to wearing an ankle brace to treat chronic ankle sprains.

Osteoarthritis:

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that can affect the ankle joint. An ankle brace can help provide compression and support to the ankle joint, reducing pain and improving mobility.

• A study published in the Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy found that using ankle braces and orthotics together can improve function and reduce pain in individuals with ankle osteoarthritis.

Ankle braces can be an effective treatment option for individuals with ankle osteoarthritis, which is a degenerative joint disease that can cause pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility in the ankle joint. Here are some studies that have looked at the effectiveness of ankle braces for osteoarthritis:

1. Reducing Pain and Improving Function: A study published in the Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy found that wearing an ankle brace can reduce pain and improve function in individuals with ankle osteoarthritis. The study included individuals with ankle osteoarthritis who were randomly assigned to wear an ankle brace. The study found that those who wore an ankle brace had less pain and better function compared to those who did not wear an ankle brace.
2. Improving Gait Mechanics: A study published in the Journal of Rehabilitation Research and Development found that wearing an ankle brace can improve gait mechanics in individuals with osteoarthritis. The study included individuals with ankle osteoarthritis who were randomly assigned to wear an ankle brace. The study found that those who wore an ankle brace had improved gait mechanics compared to those who did not wear an ankle brace.
3. Reducing Joint Loading: A study published in the Journal of Orthopaedic Research found that wearing an ankle brace can reduce joint loading in individuals with ankle osteoarthritis. The study included individuals with ankle osteoarthritis who were randomly assigned to wear an ankle brace. The study found that those who wore an ankle brace had reduced joint loading compared to those who did not wear an ankle brace.

Overall, these studies suggest that ankle braces can effectively reduce pain, improve function, improve gait mechanics, and reduce joint loading in individuals with ankle osteoarthritis. However, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate type of ankle brace for your specific injury and to ensure that it fits properly for maximum effectiveness. Physical therapy and other treatments may also be recommended, in addition to wearing an ankle brace to treat ankle osteoarthritis.

Posterior Tibial Tendinitis:

Posterior tibial tendinitis is a condition that occurs when the posterior tibial tendon, which runs along the inside of the ankle and foot, becomes inflamed or damaged. Ankle braces can be a useful treatment option for posterior tibial tendinitis. Here are some studies that have looked at the effectiveness of ankle braces for this condition:

1. Reducing Pain and Improving Function: A study published in the Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy found that wearing an ankle brace can reduce pain and improve function in individuals with posterior tibial tendinitis. The study included individuals with posterior tibial tendinitis who were randomly assigned to wear an ankle brace. The study found that those who wore an ankle brace had less pain and better function compared to those who did not wear an ankle brace.
2. Improved Ankle Stability: A study published in the Journal of Athletic Training found that wearing an ankle brace can improve ankle stability in individuals with posterior tibial tendinitis. The study included individuals with posterior tibial tendinitis who were randomly assigned to wear an ankle brace. The study found that those who wore an ankle brace had improved ankle stability compared to those who did not wear an ankle brace.
3. Reduced Tendon Loading: A study published in the Journal of Foot and Ankle Research found that wearing an ankle brace can reduce tendon loading in individuals with posterior tibial tendinitis. The study included individuals with posterior tibial tendinitis who were randomly assigned to wear an ankle brace. The study found that those who wore an ankle brace had reduced tendon loading compared to those who did not wear an ankle brace.

Overall, these studies suggest that ankle braces can effectively reduce pain, improve function, improve ankle stability, and reduce tendon loading in individuals with posterior tibial tendinitis. However, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate type of ankle brace for your specific injury and to ensure that it fits properly for maximum effectiveness. Physical therapy and other treatments may also be recommended, in addition to wearing an ankle brace to treat posterior tibial tendinitis.

Peroneal Tendonitis:

Peroneal tendonitis is a condition that occurs when the peroneal tendons, which run along the outside of the ankle and foot, become inflamed or damaged. Ankle braces can be a useful treatment option for peroneal tendonitis. Here are some ways in which ankle braces can help with this condition:

1. Compression: Ankle braces can provide reduction around the ankle joint, which can help to reduce inflammation and swelling in the peroneal tendons.
2. Support: Ankle braces can support the ankle joint, which can help reduce stress on the peroneal tendons and promote healing.
3. Stability: Ankle braces can help improve ankle stability, reducing the risk of further injury to the peroneal tendons.
4. Immobilization: In some cases, ankle braces may be used to immobilize the ankle joint, allowing the peroneal tendons to heal.

It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate type of ankle brace for your specific injury and to ensure that it fits properly for maximum effectiveness. Physical therapy and other treatments may also be recommended, in addition to wearing an ankle brace to treat peroneal tendonitis.

Anterior Tibial Tendonitis:

Anterior tibial tendonitis is a condition that occurs when the anterior tibial tendon, which runs along the front of the ankle and foot, becomes inflamed or damaged. Ankle braces can be a useful treatment option for anterior tibial tendonitis. Here are some ways in which ankle braces can help with this condition:

1. Compression: Ankle braces can provide reduction around the ankle joint, which can help to reduce inflammation and swelling in the anterior tibial tendon.
2. Support: Ankle braces can support the ankle joint, which can help to reduce stress on the anterior tibial tendon and promote healing.
3. Stability: Ankle braces can help improve ankle stability, reducing the risk of further injury to the anterior tibial tendon.
4. Immobilization: In some cases, ankle braces may be used to immobilize the ankle joint to allow the anterior tibial tendon to heal.

There is limited research on the effectiveness of ankle braces for anterior tibial tendonitis specifically. However, a study published in the Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy found that ankle braces can effectively reduce pain and improve function in individuals with lateral ankle instability, which is a condition that often occurs in conjunction with anterior tibial tendonitis. The study found that wearing an ankle brace reduced pain and improved function in individuals with lateral ankle instability.

It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate type of ankle brace for your specific injury and to ensure that it fits properly for maximum effectiveness. Physical therapy and other treatments may also be recommended, in addition to wearing an ankle brace to treat anterior tibial tendonitis.

Plantar Fasciitis:

A study published in the Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association found that using ankle braces and orthotics together can reduce pain and improve function in individuals with plantar fasciitis.

Plantar fasciitis is a common condition when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, becomes inflamed or damaged. The disease is characterized by pain and stiffness in the heel and arch of the foot, especially when standing or walking. Ankle braces can be a useful treatment option for plantar fasciitis. Here are some ways in which ankle braces can help with this condition:

1. Compression: Ankle braces can provide reduction around the foot and ankle, which can help to reduce inflammation and swelling in the plantar fascia.
2. Support: Ankle braces can support the foot and ankle, which can help to reduce stress on the plantar fascia and promote healing.
3. Immobilization: In some cases, ankle braces may be used to immobilize the ankle and foot to allow the plantar fascia to heal.

Several studies have looked at the effectiveness of ankle braces for the treatment of plantar fasciitis. Here are some examples:

1. A study published in the Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association compared the effectiveness of three different types of ankle braces for treating plantar fasciitis. The study found that all three types of ankle braces effectively reduced pain and improved function in individuals with plantar fasciitis.
2. A study published in the Journal of Foot and Ankle Research compared the effectiveness of an ankle brace to a shoe insert for treating plantar fasciitis. The study found that both the ankle brace and the shoe insert effectively reduced pain and improved function in individuals with plantar fasciitis. Still, the ankle brace was more effective overall.
3. A study published in the Journal of Physical Therapy Science compared the effectiveness of ankle taping to an ankle brace for treating plantar fasciitis. The study found that ankle taping and ankle bracing effectively reduced pain and improved function in individuals with plantar fasciitis, but ankle bracing was more effective overall.

Overall, these studies suggest that ankle braces can effectively reduce pain and improve function in individuals with plantar fasciitis. However, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate type of ankle brace for your specific injury and to ensure that it fits properly for maximum effectiveness. Physical therapy and other treatments may also be recommended, in addition to wearing an ankle brace to treat plantar fasciitis.

It is important to note that ankle braces can effectively treat plantar fasciitis, but they are not a cure. It is essential to address the underlying causes of plantar fasciitis, including overuse, improper footwear, or tight muscles, to prevent the disease from recurring. Physical therapy, stretching, and orthotics may also be recommended as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for plantar fasciitis.

Post-surgical recovery:

After ankle surgery, an ankle brace can help provide support and stability to the ankle joint, reducing the risk of further injury and aiding in the healing process.

Ankle braces can be a valuable tool for post-surgery recovery, particularly for individuals who have undergone surgery on the ankle or foot. Here are some ways in which ankle braces can help with post-surgery recovery:

1. Immobilization: After ankle or foot surgery, it may be necessary to immobilize the ankle or foot to allow the affected area to heal. Ankle braces can be used to provide immobilization and support during the recovery period.
2. Compression: Ankle braces can provide reduction around the ankle and foot, which can help to reduce swelling and inflammation in the affected area.
3. Stability: Ankle braces can help improve ankle stability, reducing the risk of further injury during the recovery period.

Several studies have looked at the effectiveness of ankle braces for post-surgery recovery. Here are some examples:

1. A study published in the Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy examined using ankle braces after sprain surgery. The study found that using an ankle brace during the recovery period was associated with better pain, function, and ankle stability outcomes.
2. A study published in the Journal of Foot and Ankle Research examined using ankle braces after foot and ankle surgery. The study found that using an ankle brace during recovery was associated with a lower risk of complications, such as wound healing problems.
3. A study published in the Journal of Athletic Training examined using ankle braces after ankle ligament reconstruction surgery. The study found that using an ankle brace during recovery was associated with improved ankle stability and reduced risk of re-injury.

Overall, these studies suggest that ankle braces can effectively promote recovery and reduce the risk of complications after ankle and foot surgery. However, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate type of ankle brace for your specific injury and to ensure that it fits properly for maximum effectiveness. Other treatments, such as physical therapy, may also be recommended as part of a comprehensive post-surgery recovery plan.

It is important to note that while ankle braces can be helpful during recovery, they are not a substitute for appropriate rehabilitation and exercise. Working with a healthcare professional to develop a rehabilitation plan that includes proper exercises and activities to promote healing and restore function to the affected area is essential. Ankle braces should be used with other treatment options to optimize recovery and reduce the risk of complications.

Athletes:

Ankle braces are commonly used by athletes to prevent ankle injuries, particularly in sports that involve jumping, cutting, and other quick movements. Here are some ways in which ankle braces can help athletes:

1. Prevention of Ankle Injuries: Ankle braces can help to prevent ankle injuries, such as sprains, by providing support and stability to the ankle joint.
2. Improved Performance: Ankle braces can help athletes to improve their performance by reducing the risk of ankle injury and allowing them to play with more confidence.
3. Improved Recovery: Ankle braces can also be helpful for athletes who have suffered an ankle injury by providing support and stability during the recovery period.

Several studies have looked at the effectiveness of ankle braces for athletes. Here are some examples:

1. A study published in the American Journal of Sports Medicine looked at the effectiveness of ankle braces for preventing ankle sprains in high school basketball players. The study found that using an ankle brace significantly reduced the risk of ankle sprains compared to not using an ankle brace.
2. A study published in the Journal of Athletic Training looked at the effectiveness of ankle braces for preventing ankle injuries in college football players. The study found that using an ankle brace significantly reduced the risk of ankle injuries compared to not using an ankle brace.
3. A study published in the Journal of Sports Science and Medicine looked at the effectiveness of ankle braces for improving balance and stability in basketball players. The study found that using an ankle brace improved balance and stability compared to not using an ankle brace.

Overall, these studies suggest that ankle braces can be effective in preventing ankle injuries and improving performance in athletes. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate type of ankle brace for your specific sport and to ensure that it fits properly for maximum effectiveness. It is also important to note that ankle braces should not be used as a substitute for proper warm-up, stretching, and conditioning before athletic activity.

In addition to ankle braces, other measures can also be taken to prevent ankle injuries in athletes. These include proper warm-up and stretching before activity, using appropriate footwear, and incorporating balance and strength training into an athlete’s workout routine. Physical therapy and other treatments may also be recommended for athletes who have suffered an ankle injury.