Ankle supports provide compression and support for the ankle. They can be worn to prevent injury occurring or to provide support for a previously injured ankle. They can be made from elastic, nylon, vinyl, rayon elastic or neoprene with some containing metal side strips for added support.
There are various ankle supports available that can provide compression and orthopaedic support for an individual including:
- hinged ankle supports which allow the ankle to move up and down but prevent sideways movement
- open heel neoprene supports which provide compression and support but allow full movement of the ankle
- flexible steel spring ankle supports which contain springs that act like tendons, reinforcing both sides of the ankle
- lace up ankle supports which prevent lateral (side to side) movement but allow normal up and down flexion of the ankle
- air filled supports that provide compression
- Achilles tendon straps which helps to provide constant tension to the Achilles tendon
- magnetic ankle supports which provide deep magnetic penetration
- cold compression supports which provide compression to the ankle whilst also providing cold therapy to the whole ankle.
Workplace solutions and adjustments
People that may benefit from use of an ankle support at work include those with:
- chronic weakness in the ankles
- moderate ankle pain
- moderate to severe sprains
- ankle instability
- swelling or
- degenerative joint disease.
Professional advice should be sought prior to the purchasing or wearing of a brace or support. This will ensure that a suitably designed support is recommended, appropriate instructions are given for use and alternative treatments are considered such as strengthening exercises.
Information that may be useful when considering a supportive brace can be found at the links below:
References
Bad Backs 2001-2011, Ankle and Foot, Bad Backs, Melbourne, viewed 1 February 2011, http://www.badbacks.com.au/shop/category/127/ankle-foot.
Return to Fitness (no date specified), Ankle Supports, Return to Fitness Ltd., Norwich UK, viewed 1 February 2011, http://www.return2fitness.co.uk/Supports_And_Braces/Ankle_Supports.