Why you should wear ankle braces during volleyball

Volleyball is a high-intensity sport that demands quick movements, agility, and frequent jumps. In a 2017 review on volleyball injuries, ankle sprains were by far the most common injury for volleyball players at 31.9%¹.  This begs the question how can we reduce the risks of ankle sprains in volleyball?  A start is by adding a layer of protection by wearing volleyball ankle braces during practice and competition. This blog we will explore why ankle braces are important, how they work, and what to look for when choosing the best ankle braces for volleyball.

The Risk of Ankle Sprains in Volleyball

Volleyball requires players to jump, land, and change direction quickly. These dynamic movements put considerable stress on the ankles. Ankle sprains occur when the ligaments around the ankle are stretched or torn due to sudden twists or impacts. This can happen when landing awkwardly, colliding with another player, or making a sharp turn.

Ankle sprains can range from mild to severe, with recovery times varying from a few days, weeks, to months. The severity of the sprain often depends on the ligament damage and whether there's additional injury to the bones or other soft tissues.  Grade I sprains are mild with no tearing of the ligaments.  Grade II sprains are moderate with partial tear of the ligaments.  Grade III sprains are severe with full tear of the ligaments.

 The Benefits of Wearing Ankle Braces

Ankle braces are designed to provide support and stability to the ankle joint. By wearing ankle braces during volleyball, players can significantly reduce the risk of ankle sprains and other related injuries. Here are some of the key benefits of wearing ankle braces:

1. Enhanced Ankle Support

Ankle braces provide external support to the ankle, reducing the risk of excessive movement that can lead to sprains. They stabilize the joint, allowing players to move with confidence and perform at their best.  This also helps with absorbing impact while landing from jumps.

2. Reduced Risk of Injury

Studies have shown that wearing ankle braces can lower the incidence of ankle sprains in volleyball. By providing extra support, ankle braces can help prevent the twisting or rolling of the ankle that often leads to sprains. 

3. Quicker Recovery

In the unfortunate event of an ankle sprain, wearing ankle braces can help with recovery.  An ankle brace can limit the severity of the ankle sprain by adding a layer of protection.  The support provided by the brace can reduce swelling and promote healing, allowing players to return to the game sooner.

Choosing the Best Ankle Braces for Volleyball

When choosing an ankle brace for volleyball, there are several factors to consider:

1. Support Level

Different ankle braces offer varying levels of support. Some are designed for mild support, while others provide maximum stability. Consider your needs and whether you're using the brace for prevention or recovery.

2. Comfort and Fit

An ankle brace should fit snugly but not be too tight. Look for braces made from breathable materials that won't cause discomfort during intense play.

3. Ease of Use

Ankle braces should be easy to put on and take off. Consider whether you prefer a lace-up design, a strap system, or a slip-on brace.

4. Durability

Volleyball is a demanding sport, so choose an ankle brace that can withstand the rigors of the game. Look for braces made from high-quality materials that are designed to last.

Zamst Ankle Braces

Playing sports at a high level puts you at risk for lower extremity injuries such as an ankle sprain.  With ankle sprains being one of the most common types of injuries that occur with participation in volleyball, protecting the joint would be a wise decision.  Adding a layer of protection can reduce ankle sprains, limit severity of injury, and increase your availability to your team.

Zamst offers a moderate ankle brace Zamst A1  and strong ankle brace Zamst A2-DX   that provides stability and support with breathable features.  The A2-DX provides a three-way support (Anterior, lateral, and medial)

For all other ankle braces from Zamst, explore from here.

Ankle braces are a valuable tool for volleyball players, offering support, stability, and reduced risk of injury. By choosing the right ankle brace and wearing it consistently during play, you can protect your ankles and enjoy the game with confidence. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, ankle braces are a smart investment that can help keep you on the court and off the sidelines.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

EVAN JEFFRIES is a physical therapist with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy (DPT) from the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences.  He is also the owner of Evolving Motion Physical Therapy and has vast knowledge of the musculoskeletal system and has treated many orthopedic conditions by bringing a proactive approach to healthcare and lifestyle.  Recently he has also been active on social media as an injury analyst mainly in related to injuries NBA players have sustained.   Evan can be followed on his social media accounts.

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1. Reitmayer, Hans-Eric. "A review on volleyball injuries" Timisoara Physical Education and Rehabilitation Journal, vol.10, no.19, 2017, pp.189-194.