Any time you suspect you have a sprain in your ankle, it is critical that you seek medical assistance or receive adequate care as soon as possible to avoid further injury or complications. Ice should be applied to the ankle as quickly as possible, followed by elevation and compression to help minimize swelling and pain in the ankle. When worn correctly, an ankle brace can offer the essential compression while also aiding in reducing ankle movement that can contribute to further injury.
Ankle braces are available in various sizes and styles, ranging from maximal wrist brace for more catastrophic injuries to moderate and mild braces for less severe injuries. Many sportsmen will bring an ankle brace or two in their sports bag if they need to treat an ankle injury quickly. Which one you will require will be determined by the severity of your ankle injury, as well as whether this is your first ankle sprain or whether you have a history of repeated ankle sprains.
Occasionally, you might sustain a minor sprain of the ankle by stretching the ankle’s ligaments but not tearing them. A slight ankle sprain will allow you to walk and participate in light activities while the injury is healing. Mild support ankle braces are utilized for people who have slight ankle sprains and merely want a little extra support while participating in various sporting activities. The use of ankle braces for modest support provides support and offers the compression necessary to minimize swelling and limit the amount of movement available.
The most common type of ankle sprain is a second-degree sprain, which occurs when the ankle is twisted. Ligaments are slightly ripped in this instance, and there is swelling and some stiffness in the joint. To recover from this type of injury, you will need to remain off your feet for 2 to 3 weeks and then restrict the amount of mobility in your ankle. A moderate support ankle brace is the most effective type of ankle brace for this sort of injury. An intermediate ankle support brace is pretty durable and can be utilized in various physically demanding activities. These sorts of ankle braces are typically equipped with Velcro straps that can be adjusted to provide the level of compression that you require and accommodate any edema that may be present.
A third-degree ankle sprain is severe, resulting in a complete rupture of the ligament in the ankle joint. This type of sprain is often treated with surgery and can take up to a year to heal completely. If the illness is not treated correctly, it might develop into a more chronic problem. You would want what is known as a maximum support brace for your ankle to treat this type of damage. This ankle brace will cause you to have even more restrictions in your movement, but it is also quite solid and long-lasting. Consult with your doctor first if you’re not sure which ankle brace is ideal for you; he will be able to recommend the most appropriate brace for you based on the degree of your injury.
