Will an Ankle Brace Help a Sprained Ankle?

Will an ankle brace help a sprained ankle is one of the most frequently asked questions in sports medicine clinics, physical therapy offices, athletic training rooms, and online searches. Ankle braces can reduce your risk of further injury by providing stability to the joint. They provide a faster return to the activities you enjoy and help to reduce swelling. It’s advised to consult a professional to choose the right fit and type for the most effective support without discomfort. 

Advantages and Benefits 

An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments are stretched or torn and range in severity from grade 1 (mild) to grade 3 (severe) and carries symptoms like swelling, bruising, and instability. An ankle brace helps a sprained ankle by providing support to the joint and limiting movement to prevent making your injury worse. Studies have shown that it cuts down on repeat sprains, especially if you're an athlete. 

An ankle brace helps a sprained ankle by applying gentle compression to the area to help reduce swelling and ease pain, and allows you to get back to your daily activities. It can help you ease back into your work sooner and protect the joint while it heals. Wearing an ankle brace after an injury can reduce your odds of reinjury by up to 64% during high-risk activities (ex., Basketball or hiking). 

Disadvantages and Potential Pitfalls 

There is a risk of weakening the joints and tendons from long-term use, and this brings a higher risk of future injuries. Wearing an ankle brace can cause chafing, blisters, or it can feel bulky and uncomfortable. A brace that is too tight can cause more pain, pinching, or restricted circulation. They can limit your natural movement and interfere with your balance or put additional strain on other parts of your body, like your knees.  

Over-reliance on a brace can slow down your healing by not letting your body build the strength it needs naturally. Mild injuries may not require an ankle brace, and the use of one might be a bit overkill. An ankle brace can be helpful when used correctly and for the right amount of time. Don’t let it become your crutch, as that can lead to chronic issues later. 

When Can an Ankle Brace Help with a Sprain 

A grade 2 or 3 sprain can include significant swelling and instability. An ankle brace can help with a sprain by protecting the ligaments while they are healing. It can help reduce swelling by applying gentle compression and provide stability by keeping the joint aligned and reducing unwanted movement. By providing swelling and pain relief, keeping the joint stable, and preventing further damage, you allow the ankle to heal faster and properly. 

Heading out for a run on uneven ground, or lacing up for a pickup game, an ankle brace can help you prevent another injury. Wearing a brace daily should be cleared with a doctor and tapered off as you heal and rebuild your strength. A history of ankle injuries is another reason to consider an ankle brace to prevent reinjury.  Mix in some strength-building exercises with the use of the brace to prevent muscle weakening and dependency on the brace. 

When You Might Want to Ditch the Brace 

A mild twist or a grade 1 sprain may not need an ankle brace during normal activities, but if you’re hitting the trails, you might want to brace it to prevent further injury. Your body's natural ability to heal, paired with ankle-strengthening exercises, will most likely get you back on your game. Wearing an ankle brace for too long can lead to weaker ankles and imbalances, so focus on strengthening to avoid these issues. 

You may want to consider leaving off the brace if it’s causing you pain, swelling, or skin irritation, remove it and get a professional opinion on continuing use. When you are working on controlled exercises, it might be best to leave them off and allow the ankle to move naturally to build resilience. There are some experts who will say the brace is hindering full recovery because of too much immobilization, so prioritize your rehab to prevent reliance. 

Picking the Right Brace to Help with a Sprain 

When it’s time to pick the right brace, there are a few things to consider before making your choice. You will need to think about the type of sprain, such as a lateral (outside roll), which will need to have side support to prevent additional rolling and further damage. Playing sports that involve twists and turns, you’ll need a brace with rigid support and laces to get the right level of stability. 

Your brace should be snug but not too tight to prevent cutting off circulation. Get the right fit for your foot; adjustable braces are excellent for swelling changes. Avoid soft compression sleeves if the sprain is serious; reach for a semi-rigid brace with plastic or metal support for serious protection, while still allowing for some flex. Now is not the time to go cheap but rather invest in a solid brace that will provide the support you need, in breathable material to avoid sweat buildup. 

Wrapping It Up: Your Ankle's Game Plan 

An ankle brace will help a sprained ankle by providing support and allowing for a speedy recovery, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Consider the benefits against the disadvantages, like overuse dependency and muscle weakening from long-term use. Always pair the brace with rehab and strengthening exercises to get stronger, and get advice from your doctor or physical therapist. Looking for an ankle brace that meets the needs that we’ve talked about? Then check out this lace-up ankle brace that checks all the boxes.