Ankle braces are designed to provide stability or complete immobilisation of the ankle joint. They may be used to treat conditions post injury, post-surgery or as a prophylactic support. At Chin and Partners, our orthotist will assess, measure, and fit you with the required ankle support to meet your specific needs.
Ankle Braces are either:
Off the Shelf (OTS) Ankle Bracing
These braces range from simple elasticated support braces to semi rigid lace up type braces to more rigid bracing such as “moon boots”. We have a wide range of braces sourced from international suppliers such as DJO Global, Össur, Ottobock and Breg. Below is a description of the most frequently supplied braces.
OTS – Soft Supportive Ankle bracing
This design of ankle brace gives your ankle the required support after an ankle strain or sprain. They are used during rehabilitation to protect the ankle whilst allowing a gradual return to full function. They are also often used as continued support for chronic conditions.
Indications
OTS – Rigid Ankle Bracing
These devices are used after a traumatic injury or post-surgical intervention. They are used in cases where complete immobilisation of your ankle is required to promoting healing. They can be used during all stages of healing from non-weightbearing to full weightbearing.
Indications
Custom Ankle Braces:
Custom bracing is prescribed when specific requirements cannot be achieved with an off the shelf brace, or if the ankle structure and lower leg alignment requires a custom fit to provide the necessary support.
Custom ankle orthoses are often indicated for the following but not limited to:
Medical conditions that may require custom ankle bracing:
Ankle braces are designed to help stabilise and support your ankle. The brace will limit ankle movement within a prescribed range to either assist with healing or limit further damage to the affected joint. The brace will not necessarily take away all your pain, but it should reduce pain while improving your function and mobility.
Other than a rigid brace that totally immobilises your foot and ankle, like a moonboot or rigid ankle device, a brace WILL NOT weaken your lower limb muscular. A dynamic brace should allow you to move more freely which should reduce your compensation patterns and allow for normalised muscle function. The brace should however only be used as required or as prescribed. Where appropriate, we recommend that a rehabilitation process is followed in conjunction with the use of a brace.
This will depend on the rehabilitation plan set out by the attending doctor and/or physiotherapist. If any adjustment to the brace is required during this time, please contact us to set up an appointment for us to assist you.