How do I choose an ankle brace for exercise or recovery?

Ankle injuries are common. They can happen quickly in many different ways. Fortunately, ankle braces help support the ankle throughout the recovery process. But what kind of bracket do you need? Features laces, sleeves, high ankle brace and low ankle brace. Choosing a stand can be very confusing.

Ankle injuries are common. They can happen quickly in many different ways. Fortunately, ankle braces help support the ankle throughout the recovery process. But what kind of bracket do you need? Features laces, sleeves, high ankle brace and low ankle brace. Choosing a stand can be very confusing.

Here's the lowdown on how to determine which type of ankle brace you need for your condition or injury.

The function of the ankle brace

First, what can an ankle brace offer you during your recovery? The benefits and features of ankle braces include:

• Supports the ankle joint with compression, stability and warmth.
  
• Prevent the ankle from rolling to either side during activity.
• prevent further injury or damage.
• Improve performance.
• Raise your awareness of injured or previously injured joints.

What should I consider before buying an ankle brace?

Ankle braces have many benefits after an injury (described above). They help protect the area as it heals. Once you have a clear idea of ​​what functionality you want your brace to provide, you will need to consider a few more things before purchasing an ankle brace

What type of stand do you need?

What size is right for you?

Are some materials better than others? Or do you have a preference for the type of material?

What is your budget?

After answering these questions, you're ready to buy. If you're not sure about the answers to these questions, keep reading!

Types of ankle braces

Ankle sleeves or elastic support

These are minor variations of braces and are more suitable for minor aches or pains. Elastic supports or cross braces are great for stiff, weak or sore ankles. These types of braces can be opened and closed - or as needed for sports and activities. They provide light support while allowing the ankle to move throughout its full range.

These braces are great for preventing injury or providing light support while recovering.

Band or Wrap Braces

Shoulder straps or wraps

These ankle braces are similar to sleeves but provide extra support as they are usually adjustable. They both use some sort of criss-crossing figure-8 strap style that recreates the most common ankle strapping technique. This type of brace offers compression, is fully adjustable by adjusting the tension of the straps, and isn't too bulky. These braces take some time to find the perfect adjustment.

ankle strap

These types of ankle braces are designed for the individual athlete - which means you can adjust the lacing according to personal preference or needs. In other words, they have a more custom feel to them. They are also easy to remove and put on. The laces are also easy to match with any footwear. This type is a great option if you have a sprain or strain.

Ankle brace after injury

While lacing can also be a post-injury brace, this style has more support right after an injury. Usually, plastic panels line the sides - giving you plenty of support and stability. Some breeds may include a hinge to allow dorsiflexion (backward movement) and plantarflexion (forward movement) movement of the foot.

However, most of the time these types of braces are used to guide healing. They are not necessarily a good choice for resuming sports or other activities. These types of braces are inherently helpful in guiding recovery and are usually very hard.

Rigid Ankle Brace

And the type is more rigid than the post-injury style. Although, most of these brace styles overlap each other. These types of braces include lace-up variations, stirrup types, and air castings.

What type of ankle brace do you need?

Better for custom ankle support

If you want a more customized style, choose the lace-up style. This style can be used further as you resume your daily activities and sports. As mentioned, it's great for sprains and strains in and out of the ankle.

For severe ankle injuries

If you want a more customized style, choose the lace-up style. This style can be used further as you resume your daily activities and sports. As mentioned, it's great for sprains and strains in and out of the ankle.

For more serious ankle injuries, consider a more rigid or post-injury style and fit. You will need more support and stability - this is provided by a stronger stand. Some styles are adjustable or have inserts and have panels on their sides. These may also be preferred immediately after an injury.

For healed or mostly healed ankle injuries

Elastic supports or wraps provide support after the injury has healed or mostly healed. You may choose to wear this type of brace if you are concerned about getting injured again during an activity.

Therefore, elastic supports, wraps or sleeves may also be ideal for preventing re-injury. They support a weak ankle. At the same time, you can work on building strength off the court. Slowly, you may give up using braces entirely (which is ideal for healthy and active joints).

for chronic diseases

We should note that with more chronic conditions, it may be necessary to wear braces or sleeves frequently to reduce pain levels or prevent pain levels and problems from increasing.

Sleeves, wraps, or elastic brace styles can further help relieve swelling and fluid buildup through compression. It all boils down to what you need. Consider asking your doctor or physical therapist which type is best for you and your specific situation. They can help you narrow it down and give you what you need.

Ankle Braces Size

determine your size

In terms of size, you want it to fit snugly - but not so much that you cut off the flow. You can easily adjust the lace bracket. However, you should still check the size chart to determine which size to order. We also recommend doing some research on how others find a single brace is suitable. For example, does it run large? What do the comments say?

Are branded ankle braces better?

This may depend on your budget. Big brands tend to cost more. However, they have research and experience behind them, so you know you're likely to get a stand that's durable and supportive.

On the other hand, generic brands cost less and sometimes offer the same or similar functionality. If you plan to wear an ankle brace for a short period of time (such as a mild sprain), a versatile and more affordable option may work best. If you need support for a more chronic condition, such as arthritis, you may need to invest more in stents.

While protection and support after an injury is important, you don't want any further loss of strength due to external factors. How did this happen? The stand provides support when you need it. However, with prolonged use, the brace may cause muscle weakness. Instead of actively working these muscles through activity, they are limited by the brace. Eventually, you'll use them less. This results in a drop in strength. Decreased strength can lead to repeated injuries -- probably the last thing you want to see.

ankle support material

• Hydramesh fabric
• breathable
• comfortable
• supported

Neoprene fabric

• flexible
• soft
• comfortable
• breathable
• maintain body temperature to keep the area warm

Lycra fabric (spandex)

• flexible
• bouncy
• light
• breathable

When viewing braces from Back To Sport, if you're concerned about allergies, look out for latex-free varieties.

common problem

Is there a difference between buying at my local pharmacy and buying from a more specialized store?

Many pharmacies offer reliable and durable brace options. However, their selection may be limited and you may not find the exact bracket you need. Specialty stores - like Back To Sport - offer more options so you can find what you need and get the best product for your injury or condition.

How tight should the ankle brace be?

It should fit nicely. But it shouldn't be too tight. You want it to be tight enough to provide some compression - but loose enough to allow it to breathe.

Are ankle braces washable?

Yes, most ankle braces are washable. Many people exercise with braces - so hygiene is important. Most braces have specific instructions on how to clean them. Usually, you have to remove the straps or fasteners. Many types can be cleaned with warm water and soap. However, most types cannot go into the dryer. Air-drying is best, so make sure you allow the right amount of time for it to dry completely before using it.

When should I wear ankle braces?

For prevention, wear ankle braces during sports or activities. If it's for a chronic condition, you'll likely wear an ankle brace in your everyday life -- and so is recovery after an injury.

Our Ankle Support Collection

ZSZBACE offers a variety of ankle braces to suit your needs and budget. We've partnered with some of the best brands in the industry to provide you with durable and supportive braces you can trust. With any bracket, we have a 30-day exchange policy. If the size doesn't quite fit, you can simply change to one that fits better. We strongly recommend that you review the bracket's description and size chart before ordering.