Ankle sprains can happen quickly but can take time to recover from depending on the severity. Lateral ankle sprains are the most common types of sprains and account for about 75% of all sprains to the ankle. The ankle joint is held together by many supporting ligaments. Some are more prone to injury than others.
Three most commonly sprained ligaments in the ankle
- Anterior Talofibular Ligament (ATFL) is the most commonly injured. It is located on the lateral aspect (outside) of the ankle and is the only ligamentous structure in front of the ankle.
- Calcaneofibular Ligament is the second most commonly prained ligament. It is located between the calcaneus and the fibula.
- Posterior Talofibular Ligament is the third most commonly sprained.
Classification of Ankle Sprains
Ligaments are injured when they are pulled past their normal range of motion. These injuries are classified into 3 Grades and can be anywhere from a slight stretch to a complete tear/rupture.
- Grade I Is the mildest and is typically classified as a stretched ligament
- Grade II More moderate injury and will have a partial tear of the ligament
- Grade III severe injury with complete rupture of the ligament.
Ankle sprains – To Brace or Not To Brace?
Proper treatment of the ankle after injury is vital for recovery. We always recommended physiotherapy to rehabilitate the ankle. An active approach can help to get you back to your pre-injury strength and range of motion.
After an ankle injury many people are prone to chronic ankle instability (CAI). Chronic Ankle instability is the feeling of the ankle giving way and can lead to further ligamentous damage. For these patients we often do recommend bracing.
Studies have shown that ankle braces are not effective in reducing the incidence of 1st time injuries, however can be highly effective in athletes that have a history in ankle sprains.
- Do you have a history of ankle injuries?
- Do you have chronic ankle instability?
- Do you participate in high risk activities or sport?
If you answered yes to the above questions bracing is probably a good option for you!
Here are a few of our favourite braces for chronic ankle sprains!
The MalleoTrain
The MalleoTrain brace is used to treat a sore ankle joint following injury, surgery or osteoarthritis. Two individually fitted and contoured cushions (pads) on the inner and outer malleolus help to reduce swelling. The three-dimensional knit sits comfortably and stimulates circulation.
- Helps to relieve pain
- Helps to reduce swelling
- Breathable material, gentle on your skin
The MalleoTrain Plus
With an added semi-elastic strap system, wound around the foot in a figure-of-eight pattern, this brace increases the stabilizing effect. MalleoTrain Plus is suitable for use in early functional treatment of capsular ligament strains and for protection against ankle injuries.
- Three-dimensional active knit – for a perfect fit.
- Anatomical shape – Conforms to your body for gentle compression that keeps the ankle in place and improves circulation.
- Viscoelastic cushions – Increase your comfort with soft pads while stabilizing the ankle and reducing pain and swelling.
MalleoLoc L
MalleoLoc L ankle brace stabilizes the joint, relieves pain in the ankle joint and prevents it from careless movements, particularly in the acute phase of the condition. -The brace features a plastic shell which is anatomically shaped to conform to the outer side of the foot. -Provides a high degree of medial and lateral stabilization, helping to prevent sprains and rolling out movements of the foot.
BOOK AN ASSESSMENT AT ONE OF OUR CLINICS!
Want to know if an ankle brace is right for you?
Call us for more information (647) 201-6255