Using Braces/Supports to Alleviate Ankle Pain and Speed Healing
An ankle sprain --which might be described as the stretching
or tearing of ankle ligaments-- is the most common injury to the
ankle, and can cause chronic ankle pain.
Good braces/supports, quickly applied can reduce or even alleviate
pain and should
speed the healing process. Ankle sprains happen when the ankle is
turned out or twisted and results in instability in the joint. Braces/supports
keep the ankle in place and prevent further injury.
Bracing/Supporting First Degree Ankle Sprains
A first degree ankle sprain is characterized by mild pain, stiffness
in the joint, and some
mild stretching or tearing of the joint ligaments. For these sorts
of injuries, use a light
and flexible brace/support or ankle wrap. The brace/support will
prevent further injury
and will keep the ankle rigid while the body repairs the damaged
ligament.
Bracing/Supporting Second Degree Ankle Sprains
With a second degree ankle sprain the ligaments around the joint
have suffered a
moderate tear. There will likely be swelling, stillness, and pain,
particularly when weight
bearing. Use braces/supports which provide a lot of ankle support
and redirect some of
the body weight further up the leg. In these cases, the brace/support
can really reduce
pain, and keeping the ankle generally immobile with a brace/support
may prevent the
chronic ankle pain which can be the result of untreated ankle sprains.
Bracing/Supporting Third Degree Ankle Sprains
With a third degree ankle sprain there has been a total rupture
of the ankle ligament.
Expect severe pain initially then no pain, loss of mobility, and
swelling. Bracing/Supporting a third degree ankle sprain quickly
can make all of the difference and prevent further injury to the
ankle. The brace/support to totally immobilize the ankle.
Bracing/Supporting Part of R.I.C.E.
Respond to an ankle injury with R.I.C.E. The “R” is for
rest, rest the ankle, don’t use it.
The “I” represents ice which helps reduce swelling. The
“C” stands for compression, this
is the bracing/supporting of the ankle. And “E” reminds
one to elevate the ankle,
keeping it higher than the heart for at least 24 hours.
Brace/Support Then Call for Help
In the case of second or third degree ankle sprains, follow R.I.C.E.
and then contact a
medical professional.
Have Braces/Supports on Hand
If you are a runner, an athlete, or even a parent or grandparent,
it is a good idea to
have ankle braces/supports on hand. Treating an ankle injury quickly
can be the key to
preventing further injury. Check out the products listed on the
right for braces/supports
of all kinds, since it is a good idea to have these on hand
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