Should you wear ankle braces all day?

Ankle injuries are among the most common musculoskeletal injuries, affecting athletes and non-athletes alike.  In fact, a recent study found that the effect of sports specialization on lower extremity injury rates in high school was more than non-specialized athletes and the most common body part injured is the ankle.¹ The use of ankle braces or ankle wraps has become a prevalent method to prevent and manage ankle sprains and other injuries.  However, a common question arises: should you wear ankle braces all day? To answer this, we need to explore the functions of ankle braces, their benefits, and potential drawbacks.

Benefits of Ankle Braces

1. Reduction of Ankle Sprains and severity:

   Ankle sprains occur when the ligaments supporting the ankle stretch beyond their limits or tear.  Wearing ankle braces can significantly reduce the risk of these injuries by limiting excessive movement and providing external support to the ankle joint.  It can also reduce the severity of the injury if the sprain occurs.

      2. Enhanced Stability and Support:

   For individuals with a history of ankle injuries, ankle braces offer additional stability.  This support can be particularly beneficial during activities that place high stress on the ankle, such as sports or vigorous exercise.

3. Improved Confidence:

   The psychological benefit of wearing ankle braces should not be underestimated.  Knowing that your ankle is supported can boost confidence, allowing individuals to engage in activities without the fear of reinjury.

4. Aid in Rehabilitation and ankle support:

   After an ankle injury, wearing an ankle brace can be an integral part of the rehabilitation process. It helps in maintaining proper alignment and reducing stress on the injured ligaments, facilitating a faster recovery.

Potential Drawbacks of Wearing Ankle Braces All Day

1. Muscle Weakness:

   Continuous use of ankle braces can potentially lead to muscle weakness or decrease in muscle activity during certain activities.  When the ankle is constantly supported externally, the muscles around the joint may not engage as much as they normally would, leading to atrophy over time.

2. Dependency:

   Relying on ankle braces all day can create a psychological and physical dependency.  This can make individuals less confident in their natural ability to stabilize their ankle without external support.

3. Skin Irritation:

   Wearing ankle braces for extended periods can cause skin irritation, especially if the brace is not fitted properly or if it is worn during activities that cause sweating.  This can lead to discomfort and, in some cases, skin infections.

4. Reduced Range of Motion:

   Ankle braces can limit the range of motion of the ankle joint.  While this is beneficial in preventing injuries, it can also hinder the natural movement of the joint, which might not be desirable for all-day wear.  It can also lead to different forces up the chain of the body during sporting activities putting other joints at risks.

When Should You Wear Ankle Braces?

1. During High-Risk Activities:

   It is advisable to wear ankle braces during activities that pose a high risk of ankle injury.  This includes sports like basketball, soccer, or running, where the likelihood of twisting or rolling an ankle is higher.

2. Post-Injury Recovery:

   After suffering an ankle injury, wearing a brace can provide the necessary support and protection during the healing process.  It helps in preventing further injury and aids in a quicker recovery.

3. Chronic Instability:

   For individuals with chronic ankle instability, wearing an ankle brace can be beneficial in providing ongoing support.  These individuals are usually hypermobile which means their joints stretch beyond the normal position.  However, it is crucial to complement the use of braces with exercises that strengthen the ankle muscles.

When Should You Avoid Wearing Ankle Braces All Day?

1. Low-Risk Activities:

   For everyday activities that do not place significant stress on the ankles, such as walking or light household chores, it might be better to avoid wearing ankle braces. This allows the ankle muscles to function naturally and maintain their strength.

2. Rest Periods:

   Giving your ankle a break from the brace during periods of rest, such as when you are sleeping or sitting for extended periods, can help in preventing muscle atrophy and skin irritation.

While ankle braces are undoubtedly beneficial in preventing and managing ankle injuries, wearing them all day may not be ideal for everyone.  There should be serious reasons or importance to have to wear an ankle brace all day.  It is important to assess your individual needs, the nature of your activities, and the condition of your ankle before deciding on the duration of brace use.  Balancing the use of ankle braces with strengthening exercises and proper footwear can help in maintaining overall ankle health and preventing dependency on external support.

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. McGuine TA, Post EG, Hetzel SJ, Brooks MA, Trigsted S, Bell DR. A Prospective Study on the Effect of Sport Specialization on Lower Extremity Injury Rates in High School Athletes. The American Journal of Sports Medicine. 2017;45(12):2706-2712. doi:10.1177/0363546517710213