Ankle Brace for Weak Ankles: Living with A Strong Foundation

An ankle brace for weak ankles might be the game-changer you are looking for, whether it’s on the field, the trail, those walks in the park, or chasing your kids around. If you suffer from weak ankles, you are not alone. We are going to talk about the pros and cons, finding the right size, and things to watch out for.  

Why Weak Ankles Suck  

Having weak ankles can happen for a couple of different reasons, such as a past sprain or injury, overuse, or even genetics can all have an impact on your ankle's stability. If you’ve ever wondered if wearing an ankle brace for weak ankles is right for you, stick around for a while.  

There are several types of ankle braces for weak ankles, such as lace-ups for custom support, soft compression sleeves, or rigid stirrups that lock your ankle in place for that extra support. Ankle braces aren’t just for athletes; you might be recovering after an injury, on your feet all day, and especially preventing rolls during that game of pickup basketball. For best results, work in some strengthening exercises, like ankle circles and calf raises, to build a solid foundation. 

Pros and Cons of an Ankle Brace for Weak Ankles 

Ankle braces for weak ankles are designed to limit excessive side-to-side movement. That means fewer twists and more confidence in every step. They are also great for reducing pain and swelling and preventing further damage, and promoting healing. Ankle braces have a high level of versatility and can be customized to be worn for many different activities. Let’s not forget that the purchase of a quality ankle brace is much cheaper than an E.R. visit. 

Now, let’s look at some reasons for not wearing an ankle brace for weak ankles. For some, it can feel like you are wearing a clunky boot. They can also make wearing sneakers a little challenging. There is also the possibility of developing a dependency on the brace. When you are over-reliant on the brace, your muscles can become weaker. The brace can make your ankle hot and sweaty and cause chaffing. 

To Brace or Not to Brace 

We’ve talked about the good and bad; now it’s time to talk about the when and why.  A great time to wear a brace is after a sprain. The ankle is extremely weak and vulnerable at this point, and the extra support will make a huge difference. When you’re tearing it up on the court or going hard on the field, sports injury prevention is a great reason for an ankle brace. Weak ankles are not fun, but the support a brace can provide might be the perfect fix while you work on building your ankle's strength. 

Now, let's look at some reasons for not wearing an ankle brace. A mild twist or sprain might be better served with physical therapy. The use of a brace might make the muscles weaker rather than build up strength. You might just have a day when your ankle feels weak, but it might not be a problem. It is always best to check with a doctor or physical therapist for advice. 

How do you find the Right Fit 

Grab a tape measure or a string and a ruler to measure the circumference of your ankle. Measure right above the bone and make sure your foot is relaxed. You don’t want to eyeball it, and be sure to check the sizing chart before making your purchase. If you can, try one on in a store, or order from a place that has an easy return policy. You want the brace to be snug, but not so tight that it causes numbness.  

It might be a good idea to take a break and not wear the brace 24/7. Take some rest days and remove the brace when resting to give your ankle a break and avoid overuse. If the pain is getting worse or if something just doesn’t feel right, consult with a doctor or physical therapist. It’s better to be overcautious than to cause more damage by ignoring the issue. 

Things to Keep an Eye On  

There are a few things to watch out for, like redness and/or blisters. Check your foot and ankle daily and adjust as needed. Lace-up braces are adjustable and come in soft and rigid styles. Inspect the brace often for signs of wear, like fraying or tears. It’s recommended to replace every 6 to 12 months, depending on your frequency of use.  

Lace Up Smart and Keep Moving 

From the pros and cons to the when and why, we covered a good amount of information to get you heading in the right direction. We have just touched the surface though, and there is so much more we will cover another time. Talk to your doctor or physical therapist and always follow their advice, then listen to your body and adjust and fine-tune until you have it just right. Check out this lace-up ankle brace with a removable stabilizer that allows the brace to be worn in a soft or rigid form. It’s a great ankle brace for weak ankles that can adapt to your needs as you build your ankle strength.