This next brace offers exceptional ankle support and minimizes your risks of injury during activity. With proper ankle support, it helps keep everything in place and significantly reduces any chances of injuries and sprains. Ankle braces are some of the most popular and versatile gear for athletes of any sport and are typically used as external support to limit certain motions that can cause ankle injuries. Resting will help you recovery faster. We looked for ankle braces that were designed using breathable materials like nylon and spandex and had padding to provide cushioning and support. As you recover from the injury, chances are your initial brace may not be comfortable and you may have to change to a more convenient option. By clicking Accept All Cookies, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Another way compression works is by improving the circulatory efficiency of blood in your foot, which can alleviate pain and prevent swelling. Luckily, an ankle brace may be able to help. Click below and just hit send! Medical-grade braces can also help your ankles recover more quickly. For a lateral ankle sprain, start with the outside strap or the strap closest to the pain. For active individuals who need an ankle brace to wear during workouts, the Active Ankle Prolacer Brace is a great option. That means you can wear an ankle brace to reduce your risk of injury but should do so sparingly. Verywell Health's content is for informational and educational purposes only. In the spotlight today is their Deluxe Ankle Stabilizer. Many athletes use ankle braces regularly because it helps prevent ankle injuries and issues. The ACE ankle stabilizer is low-profile and low-cost, making it one of the most accessible braces out there. The compression on your ankle is embracing but not too tight which will help reduce swelling, pain, soreness, and discomfort quickly. of the following options. Air-Stirrup Plus - This brace combines the Air-Stirrup Ankle Brace with an ankle wrap. Bodyprox Ankle Support Breathable Ankle Brace, Best Lightweight: Offer ends 8/29/22. Symptoms include: severe swelling, severe pain initially, instability of the joint, and extreme loss of motion. Whether you need mild, moderate, or maximum support for your ankle sprain, walking boots for a broken ankle, need a brace for a foot injury, or just a little extra support and comfort while playing a sport, Aircast has the brace for you. To narrow down our list, we looked at adjustability and whether the ankle brace was machine washable. Whether it is to prevent a sprain, hyper-extension or twisting, the ideal ankle brace should support the ankle and keep it secure from pressure, strains or overload symptoms that can aggravate the injury. The kit comes with an Aircast Air-Stirrup, ankle wrap, cold pack, elastic band for rehab exercises, and instructions. Overall, the right brace should fit your ankle snugly, but comfortable enough to provide compression and loose enough to ensure breathability. Plus, it's made with moisture-wicking materials, so you can stay active while wearing the brace. As you may well know, an ankle sprain causes painful swelling and debilitating fatigue in your ankle muscles. When checking out your options, you should choose a brace that supports and protects your ankle while enhancing your recovery. Because your foot is in this position for the majority of the time, this is also the position you are most likely to roll, twist or sprain your ankle. As you recover, you may be susceptible to a recurring sprain. As an alternative to the Mueller brace, the Z Athletics Zenith tie-up brace bears a similar style and function to the One Ankle Brace. A. Ashleigh is the editorial director for commerce at Verywell where she oversees health, fitness, family, and mind content. JavaScript seems to be disabled in your browser. It's important to note that this brace is not machine-washableso hand-washing is recommended. "After the acute period, if the ankle has recovered well, I recommend wearing the brace during activities for the next six to eight weeks." All rights reserved. American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society, more than 12,700 five-star ratings on Amazon, reviewers who swear by its pain-relieving qualities. After undergoing foot surgery, you're going to need a brace that holds everything in place as you recover. Rigid braces completely restrict your feet and ankle, and they keep your feet from any kind of movement. While ankle braces can provide a temporary solution, they should only be used during the initial phase of recovery unless a doctor recommends otherwise. They are also extremely beneficial for people who need more ankle support to get through their daily activities. The foot support sleeve is easy to wear, light and non-bulky, and designed to be worn with any shoes or socks easily. However, overall, its semi-rigid support makes it the best strap-style option on the market. Narrow design provides less bulk and more comfort, Patented Duplex aircell system to enhance circulation and reduce swelling. We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best Finally, we looked at the price point to decide which ankle braces provided the best value. What you need to know: A compression-fit technology that helps to support and stabilize. Material: Nylon, polyester, spandex | Sizes available: One size | Machine washable? As a Physical Therapist, I work closely with patients recovering from ankle sprains or with general ankle instability. Take care not to lace it up so tight that your feet lose circulation. Dr. McEneaney recommends a snug fit but not one that is too tight or loose. It's also available in a variety of sizes from XXS to 3XL, so you're sure to find one that fits well. Ice will reduce inflammation and pain. BestReviews is reader-supported and may earn an affiliate commission. There are 5 types of braces in the Air Stirrup family. Ankle support socks act as a compression sleeve for your feet and are suitable for minor sprains and everyday use. The Arena Media Brands, LLC and its partners may receive compensation for links to products and services on this website. Also called The One Ankle Brace, this particular brace by Mueller is made with exceptional quality, which youll see and feel right away. For a complete exclusion list, contact customer service. We've updated our Privacy Policy, which will go in to effect on September 1, 2022. If you need ankle braces for your treatment, healing, and rehabilitation, we recommend that you wear your ankle brace every day while performing your daily tasks. Whether you're recovering from an injury or just looking to prevent one, wearing an ankle brace can be extremely beneficial. She is also a certified barre instructor teaching at a boutique studio. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. No matter your level of ankle sprain, Aircast has the ankle brace to help you along the road to recovery. It should also be hand-washed, which may be a downside for some. If you have acute or chronic injury symptoms, the support brace may reduce these symptoms and make everyday activities easier. The design is breathable, and the material is moisture-wicking. We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best Aircast A60 - If you want a great combination of support, protection, and comfort, this is the brace for you. We rely on the most current and reputable sources, which are cited in the text and listed at the bottom of each article. If you sprain your ankle often, youll probably need more than just a brace to strengthen and stabilize your ankle. For strap-style ankle support, the BodyProx Ankle Support Strap may be the best option. It provides whole-ankle support to help prevent injuries during activities like basketball, football, volleyball, and more. Making sure the ankle brace fits well is important for both comfort and support. This brace is made from a breathable and durable nylon material and features a figure-eight strapping system for a customizable fit. While this ankle support is less expensive than some of our other picks, it's important to note that it's not as adjustable. We also considered sizing options, as some people may need a smaller or larger size than average. The padding is comfortable, and its unique design makes it suitable to wear on either ankle. "Ankle braces are designed to put pressure on the ankle to support the ligaments and restrict abnormal motion," says Patrick McEneaney, MD, owner and CEO at Northern Illinois Foot & Ankle Specialists. During activity, your foot is in a 60 degree position for the majority of the time, this is where you are on the toes and ball of your foot as you jump, move, and run around. A good ankle brace should provide support and stability during the healing process, and this best-seller with more than 12,700 five-star ratings on Amazon gives you both. A couple of different ankle stabilizers, in tandem with strengthening exercises in rehab, will give your ankle the support it needs to fully heal. For this reason, we will discuss some of the most reliable ankle braces in the market in this guide. Suite 106, San Diego, CA 92108, 2022 Mission Valley Heights Surgery Center. She tells Health that wearing an ankle brace can prevent excessive foot movements or "abnormal biomechanics" that could potentially cause discomfort and inflammation. Healthcare professionals review articles for medical accuracy. This sleeve is infused with capsaicina natural pain reliever that may help relieve pain associated with conditions like plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, and more. ", You'll also want to look for an ankle brace that provides stability and keeps your foot in place during activities. There are seven tarsal bones in an ankle that give you the flexibility to move. He recommends only wearing an ankle brace when necessary and slowly transitioning out of it as your symptoms and pain improve. A three sport athlete, MaKayla knows that mental and physical strength is the name of the game, but feeling good by looking good can be just as important. In the event of an ankle sprain, Dr. Parthasarathy suggests this performance-based ankle brace that delivers equal parts support and compression. She uses her 9+ years of clinical healthcare and diverse medical background to write about mental health, chronic conditions, and medicine. However, make sure that your shoe is sturdy and proves support. Even if you're accident prone or have been diagnosed with chronic ankle instability by a podiatrist, a foot brace is really for "occasional use, such as a hike on uneven ground or sports with a lot of lateral movement," according to Dr. Parthasarathy. The patented cushioning along the brace also compresses the foot to improve circulation and reduce swelling. Ive tested out a wide variety of ankle braces but narrowed my favorites to these three. The sleeve features silicon on the inside, which adds friction against the skin and helps prevent the brace from slipping off during your everyday activities. If you have to wear it all day long, you must buy a lightweight material, not bulky, breathable, and made up of moisture-wicking fabric. When looking for an ankle brace, Dr. McEneaney recommends finding one that's both comfortable to wear and fits inside your shoe. You should also consider if the brace is durable or not. The significance of the A60 is that the stabilizer sits at a 60-degree angle where traditional ankle brace stabilizers are positioned at a 90-degree angle. Bitly Ankle Braces are suitable for lasting pain relief as it gently applies pressure with compression to the center point of your foot. As a nurse, she has a decade of clinical health and wellness experience. There is also a non-slip silicone embedded inside the fabric to provide a tight grip and give adequate compression where you need it. We like the breathable polyester, TPU, and neoprene fabric blend that wicks away sweat and helps keep your skin cool and dry. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money. Looking for a compression ankle brace sleeve for instant ankle relief and support? What you need to know: An ankle brace that provides customized compression. How do you know which brace to buy? Please read my disclosure for more info. Ankle-Foot-Orthosis (AFO): These are larger, more rigid braces that, according to Dr. Parisien, "may be used to improve walking patterns by reducing, preventing, or limiting movement of the lower leg and foot and by supporting profoundly weak muscles.". Sign up and learn how to better take care of your body. Tim Fraticelli is a Physical Therapist, Certified Financial Planner and founder of PTProgress.com. The major difference between this brace and the ACE ankle stabilizer is the degree of support. However, if the brace is too tight, it can restrict your blood circulation, potentially causing more issues. 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But an ankle brace is a good first step towards healing; by preventing further injury, you will be able to gradually build strength. It can be due to foot pain, sports injury, post-surgery healing, etc. A compression sleeve is another great option to alleviate fatigue and inflammation, according to Dr. Parthasarathy. The best thing you can do following an injury is to contact your podiatrist for an evaluation. Mueller Sports Medicine The One Ankle Support Brace, The Best Carpal Tunnel Braces to Help Reduce Pain. It has cross straps that you can attach anywhere on the sleeve according to your comfort levels. The 8 Best Headphones for Sleeping of 2022, According to Sleep Experts, We Researched the Best Socks for Smelly FeetHere Are Our Top Picks, Feel Supported With the Best Pillows for Back Sleepers, The 8 Best Compression Socks for Varicose Veins of 2022, The 11 Best Period Panties of 2022 to Stay Dry, The Best Back Braces To Support Your Body, The 10 Best Sandals for Plantar Fasciitis of 2022, Get in Step With the Best Shoes for People With Diabetes, The 8 Best Hammer Toe Straighteners of 2022. Keep in mind that youll need to choose shoes that fit you along with the brace. He also suggests seeing a doctor if your ankle is still bothersome after the first month. We also recommend the ACE Compression Ankle Support, which is both affordable and easy to find at local retailers. "An ankle brace can be worn to bed, but, in the case of an ankle-stirrup or ASO, it's typically not requiredespecially following a minor ankle injury." The One Ankle Brace by Mueller is your best option for support immediately after a moderate ankle sprain. Its design will also help reduce inflammation and promote healing. The material is lightweight and very breathable, so it wont get too hot or feel too bulky on your feet. A. Unlike some nylon braces, this one is machine washable for easy care. Make sure that it doesnt stretch easily and gives you the compression and support you need day after day. "However, it must be noted that following a traumatic ankle sprain, all patients should undergo formal focused physical therapy to work on stretching, strengthening, as well as neuromuscular and proprioceptive training. This process works in a couple of ways. The figure-eight straps offer a customized fit, making this brace a great choice for those who need extra support. Weve picked our list based on the following criteria: Best Ankle Brace Worth Considering in 2022. 2022 Dotdash Media, Inc. All rights reserved. Semi-rigid ankle braces limit your feet's movement, but they give support ideal for healing and recovery. The One Ankle Brace has greater overall stability in preventing inversion and eversion, motions that can worsen your ankle sprain. If you only need ankle support for a couple of hours, comfort doesnt have to be your topmost priority. A brace stabilizes your ankle from eversion or inversion the motions you need to prevent after a sprain while supporting your ankle for rehabilitation. The ankle brace is made up of elastic nylon, a high-quality material that makes it stretchable and easy to use on any foot size. Symptoms include: pain that is mild, some amount of swelling, joint instability, mild joint stiffness, and difficulty walking comfortably. Its unique bilateral design makes it easy to wear on either ankle, while the open heel offers a wide range of motion. Save Up to 60% Off + Free Shipping. This rigid structure prevents your foot from contorting in an odd manner, which can lead to further injury. Need lightweight support when you're on your feet for hours? An ankle brace is an important addition to a workout or recover by providing support to the ankle, relieving pain, preventing injuries, and helping your ankle recover faster. The snug fit makes it easier to wear under any kind of shoes or socks. "Prolonged bracing can cause the ankle ligaments and muscles to not do their job. Follow this breakdown of the Stirrups to find the right one for you. This is a great choice if you often have issues selecting the right size of footwear, since this brace typically lace-up or strap options can be easily adjusted to give you a custom fit. You may already be familiar with the ACE Brand for its many quality products. How often should you wear an ankle brace if you are recovering from a minor injury? Here are the best ankle braces on the market today. Ankle braces are commonly used to treat injuries or provide relief from the pain of arthritis. our process. But you can use athletic socks if the feel of braces makes you uncomfortable. Designed with padding for comfort and breathability, the Med Spec ASO Ankle Stabilizer braces the ankle for maximum relief. Do I wear an ankle brace over or under my socks? Material: Nylon, neoprene | Sizes available: X-small X-large | Machine washable? We also considered how easy it was to put on and take off, as many users have difficulty reaching their feet. Many foot and ankle conditions can limit your movement and flexibility. If you have questions, please contact customer service for assistance. The Med Spec ASO Ankle Stabilizer is our top pick, because it's made from high-quality materials and provides superior support. Not only does this popular option have more than 3,600 five-star ratings from reviewers who swear by its pain-relieving qualities, Dr. Perkins also recommends this ankle brace. Browse their picks below for some much-needed support and reliefand put your best foot forward again. The manufacturer recommends hand-washing this product for proper care. Always consult with your doctor/professional to get proper ankle sprain diagnosis. The extra padding may also make it difficult to wear with certain shoes. The Aircast Stirrup braces are the best brace to provide maximum support. The adjustable design also ensures that you can use it on either foot with ease. our process. Copyright 2021 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. Whether the injury is mild or severe, you can always support and strengthen the weak ankle by wearing an ankle brace. Dont let the minimal design fool you; it may be slim enough to fit in a shoe, but its supportive enough to stabilize activities such as walking, hiking, or sports. Each brace is uniquely built to protect and support the ankle in different ways. First, theres the brace that gives maximum protection by immobilizing the ankle and providing compression support to reduce the swelling. The Sports Illustrated editorial staff are not involved in the creation of this content. However, every ankle brace is different. But before we discuss how to buy the right ankle brace for you, we should discuss some of its benefits. If I were you, Id choose the comfortable brace that Im more likely to wear. We like the figure-eight strapping system, which helps to provide a more customized fit. It is a rupture or total tear of a ligament. And because some are designed for specific needs, like aiding ankle instability or providing support after a sports injury, it's also important to select the right type of brace for your activity level. For a lightweight option that's also budget-friendly, the Nufabrx Pain Relieving Ankle Compression Sleeve offers both compression and pain relief. We've updated our Privacy Policy, which will go in to effect on September 1, 2022. Now that you understand the benefits of having an ankle brace, it is time to learn how to find an ankle brace suitable for you. The sleeve has three size options, including S/M, L, and XL. You can wear it every day without experiencing any discomfort. It also helps control acute and chronic ankle injury symptoms, and if you have had an injury in the past, it keeps it from reaggravating. The lace-up structure provides the perfect fit and lets you make adjustments as the swelling fluctuates, while the side straps keep your foot in place during activity. And thanks to adjustable laces, an elastic cuff, and cooling padding in the design, you won't have to worry about it feeling uncomfortable or ill-fitting. If youre still not convinced, here are the foremost benefits of wearing ankle braces: We cant stress the importance of wearing ankle braces enough to prevent ankle injuries. Braces are made of different types of fabric depending on their function. The cloth is moisture-wicking and breathable, which makes it perfect for day and night usage. MaKayla appreciates the dedication and hard work she sees from the competitors around her. Using an ankle brace helps improve blood circulation and reduce swelling in your ankles and feet. Using a brace in such situations can provide you with the soothing compression, protection, and support that you need to subdue pain and continue your everyday activities. Ankle-Stabilizing-Orthosis (ASO): These braces provide low-profile support and stability for both chronic and acute ankle instability. Rigid braces are best for severe injuries, because they reduce joint mobility and speed up recovery. Overall, it beats out the competition in terms of quality and support for the best ankle brace. Use this ankle sprain infographic to get a visual understanding of how common ankle sprains are and what you can do to protect and treat yourself. Aircast AirSport Ankle Brace - The features of the Air-Stirrup Ankle Brace provides comfort and support. While the extended sizing is great for those with larger ankles, some users may find the strapping system tedious. Therefore, before buying an ankle brace, ask yourself why you need it and let that answer make your decision. Incrediwear Ankle Sleeve, Best with Padding: If you can afford to buy two braces, I recommend starting with a tie-up brace like Muellers The One Ankle Brace or Z Athleticss Zenith Ankle Brace, then transitioning to a lighter ankle stabilizer like ACEs. See privacy policy and disclosure page for details. What youll love: The brace material is breathable and elastic, which ensures optimal comfort regardless of how long you wear it. Are you a PT seeking one-on-one career coaching or help with documentation? Save Up to 60% Off + Free Shipping. Yes. Mueller's The One Ankle Brace is a great choice for those searching for extended sizing optionswith eight sizes ranging from XXS to XXXL. It has an open heel design that allows you to retain ankle range of motion during most kinds of activities, such as exercising, hiking, or climbing. Ayotola Ogunsipewrites for BestReviews. Be sure to make an appointment if you have had an injury or are experiencing ankle pain. The sleek brace uses a wrapping technique that mimics kinesiology tape to support mild irritations or inflammation. SPORTS ILLUSTRATED is a registered trademark of ABG-SI LLC. That said, the sleeve offers 150 hours of pain relief and is washable up to 15 or moere timesand we think its a superior and lightweight option. 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Active Ankle Prolacer Brace, The Best Knee Braces for Arthritis That Help Maintain Proper Alignment, Best Strap: Loosen the brace as much as possible before you slip it over your sprained ankle. And if you are in the healing phase after an ankle injury, the support will improve your healing and give you compression for extra comfort. This can include issues such as sprains, arthritis, inflammation, tendonitis, ankle fractures, and more. When recovering from a sprained ankle, it is important to wear a brace that protects your ankle and prevents re-injury. While this ankle sleeve provides some support, it's important to note that it's not adjustableso following the size guidelines before purchasing is key. "Both an ankle brace and formal physical therapy can help provide physical stability and mental confidence in the ankle, both of which are critical.". "This will help prevent the ankle from spraining again.". It will help by providing you with stability and support. If the pain is along the inside of your ankle, do the opposite and start with the inner strap. However, for mild discomfort, we asked our experts for recommendations for the best ankle braces on Amazon, including selections for better stabilization, compression, and physical activity. So youre looking for an ankle brace because youve recently sprained your ankle or have chronic ankle instability. It also has invisible seams that help to prevent irritation. Made from a breathable elastic and neoprene blend, it's designed to provide compression and stability for weak or injured ankles. Sign up for our Shop Well newsletter to get your dose of retail therapy with a curated selection of editor-loved finds and must-have deals.