Ankle and Foot SupportsTypes of Ankle Braces What types of ankle braces are there?
- Lace-up Ankle Braces - This brace is primarily used to prevent or minimize the risk of injury. This brace can be tightened according to the comfort level of the user. Due to its semi-rigid structure the user has more flexibility than a rigid brace. They have the semi-rigid property since they are made from a nylon-vinyl material.
- Post-injury Braces - These are very rigid braces which are either air or gel-filled with two plastic panels that contour each side of the ankle. There is a hinge that allows for plantar flexion (point toes and ankle down) and dorsiflexion (point toes and ankle up). Post-injury braces are primarily used to put out swelling and prevent inversion and eversion (rolling your ankle in or out). Post injury braces are not intended for functional activity.
- Rigid Ankle Brace - Rigid braces come in two different types, stirrup or lace-up. They brace
can be used in conjunction with rehabilitation of an injury. Stirrup
braces allow the ankle to move up or down, and protect the ankle from
rolling in or out. This brace has a high level of protection and is
commonly used in volleyball and basketball due to the frequency of
jumping. The lace-up brace has two plastic inserts on each side of the
ankle to prevent inversion and eversion. Some brands have included
straps that wrap around the ankle for additional support
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