Why Ankle Braces Do Not Weaken the Ankle Joint: Debunking the Myth with Ultra Ankle

Introduction – In the early 1990s, ankle braces began appearing more often in sports due to their improved designs and cost efficiency. As time has gone on, ankle braces have been a topic of debate among athletes, coaches, and medical professionals. In this debate, one common myth persists and that myth is wearing ankle braces can weaken the ankle joint, leading to dependency and muscle atrophy. This blog post aims to debunk this myth and highlight the benefits of using ankle braces, specifically those from Ultra Ankle®.

Common Belief About Ankle Braces Weakening the Ankle Joint – Many people believe that using ankle braces can lead to weakened muscles and dependency on the product. The concern is that ankle braces restrict movement, causing the muscles to become less active and eventually atrophy. However, this belief is not supported by scientific evidence. Jan Golden, DPM, wrote in a PPMA blog post “I tell parents that research has shown that there is no evidence that taping or bracing the previously injured ankle joint will make it wear or cause any other injuries above the ankle joint.” Additionally, Dr. Phil Page, Ph.D, PT, ATC, CSCS, FACSM wrote in Training & Conditioning “There is a misconception that if you wear a brace you don’t need to use the ankle as much, so people come to the conclusion without evidence that they will lose the strength; however, no studies have proven this.”

How Traditional Ankle Braces Function – Bones, muscles and a network of ligaments and tendons form internal supports that keep your ankle stable, flexible and strong. These internal supports maintain your ankle’s stability. However, once you’ve incurred an ankle injury the ligaments and tendons are stretched and loosened. Once stretched your ligaments and tendons do not return to their natural state. Traditional or “lace-up” ankle braces, like our Ultra 360®, are designed to do two things. The first is to provide external support and limit certain motions, such as plantar flexion/inversion, which is the movement at the ankle joint that points the foot downward away from the leg and turns the foot inward (MCHS). This helps to provide additional support to your ankle and to aid in preventing ankle injuries. The second is to provide external support after an ankle injury to aid in quicker recovery and to help prevent further ankle injuries. The only problem with traditional lace-up ankle braces is that because they restrict some movements of the ankle joint they can lead to diminished performance with regard to agility and vertical (HKJ). Lastly, once you’ve had an ankle injury lace-up ankle braces do not significantly protect against additional injury. In a study obtained from PubMed, if a (volleyball) player had a history of a previous ankle sprain, the brace did not protect the ankle from another injury. Hinged ankle braces, like our Ultra Zoom®, have the same primary functions as the lace-up ankle brace, to help prevent ankle injuries and to help in recovery from ankle injuries. However, hinged ankle braces allow your ankle to maintain it’s natural plantar flexion and dorsiflexion while restricting the excessive inversion/eversion or “rolling” of the ankle. Additionally, the Ultra Zoom has a hinged-cuff design which also helps to prevent high ankle sprains. Hinged or “semi-rigid” ankle braces have proven to restrict excessive ankle inversion and reduced injury incidences in those with previous ankle injuries (NIH). 

Benefits of Ultra Ankle Braces – Ultra Ankle offers a range of high-quality ankle braces that provide excellent support and protection without weakening the ankle joint. Which ankle brace is best for you depends on a few different factors. What is your ankle injury history? Are you looking for a brace to help prevent that initial ankle injury? Or, are you looking for a brace to help recover from recurrent ankle injuries during sports or activities? Ultra Ankle offers 4 advanced ankle braces designed to help prevent, treat, and recover from ankle injuries:

• Ultra 360®: The Ultra 360 locks your ankle in place while the figure-8 straps provide 360º of ankle support to help prevent excessive ankle rolling. The multi-adjustable design allows you to customize your level of support. Click HERE to learn more about the Ultra 360 product features.

• Ultra Zoom®:The only ankle brace built for performance— you’ll play better and play more, losing less time to injuries with the Ultra Zoom. The Performathane® soft shell forms to you, allowing your ankle to move in all the natural ways while helping to prevent any excessive movement that may cause an injury. The Ultra Zoom is on your ankle in seconds, protects continuously for hours and lasts for multiple seasons. Click HERE to learn more about the Ultra Zoom product features.

• Ultra High-5®: The Ultra High-5 is a high-support brace designed for chronic ankle instability. Reinforce unstable ankles with the Ultra High-5. Feather-light but super-strong this ankle brace handles the twists and turns even the toughest terrain throws at you. Click HERE to learn more about the Ultra High-5 product features.

• Ultra CTS®: The Ultra CTS is a FDA registered product designed to treat high ankle injuries, acute ankle injuries, and ankle osteoarthritis. The Ultra CTS is total ankle injury management. It not only helps to relieve weight-bearing pain but also provides maximum lower leg and ankle stability with its patented Performathane upright. Click HERE to learn more about the Ultra CTS product features.

Safe Usage of Ankle Braces – To maximize the benefits of ankle braces, it’s crucial to use them correctly:

• Proper Fit: Ensure the brace fits well to avoid pressure points and restricted blood flow. The Ultra Zoom, Ultra High-5, and Ultra CTS ankle braces can be easily tailored to fit your feet and ankles by using a home hair dryer. Watch our Ultra Ankle Custom Heating Video to learn how this process works. Keep in mind, like a new pair of shoes, all ankle braces require a break-in period.
• Proper Shoes: Not all shoes are compatible with every ankle brace. To see which types of shoes to wear with Ultra Ankle braces, watch our Ultra Ankle Recommended Shoe Video.
• Strengthening Exercises: Combine ankle strengthening exercises with the use of an ankle brace to maintain overall joint health.

Conclusion – The myth that ankle braces weaken the ankle joint is not supported by scientific evidence. Ankle braces, such as the Ultra 360, Ultra Zoom, Ultra High-5, and Ultra CTS from Ultra Ankle, provide essential support and injury prevention without compromising muscle strength. The Ultra Zoom, Ultra High-5 and Ultra CTS have also proven to help athletes and individuals recover from ankle injuries faster, allowing them to get back to their sport and/or daily lives more rapidly. By using these braces correctly, athletes and individuals can enjoy enhanced stability and protection, leading to safer participation in sports and daily activities.

When it comes to preventing ankle injuries or providing support after an injury has occurred, two methods often come to mind – taping the ankle or wearing an ankle brace. These methods are common choices among athletes, athletic trainers, and physiotherapists for providing stability to an injured or unstable ankle. In this blog post, we will discuss the advantages, disadvantages, and comparative effectiveness of both strategies, thereby assisting you in making an informed decision.

Ankle Taping: The Traditional Approach

Ankle taping has been a staple in sports and athletic activities for decades. It involves wrapping athletic tape around the ankle in a specific pattern to provide support and restrict certain movements that could lead to injury.

Advantages of Ankle Taping:

1. Customizability: Taping allows for customization based on the individual’s unique anatomy and the specific nature of their injury or risk. It can be tailored to provide targeted support.(1).
2. Versatility: Taping can adapt to various sports and activities, allowing for a degree of movement while offering the right amount of restriction to prevent further injury.(1).

Disadvantages of Ankle Taping:

1. Time-consuming: Proper taping is a skill that requires practice and can be time-consuming, especially for beginners.
2. Expensive: Rolls of athletic tape can be costly, and every tape job will be discarded after use(1).
3. Loses Support Quickly: Taping restricts all ankle range of motion, including the natural up and down movement necessary for running and jumping. The moment an athlete steps onto the field or court, their ankle is working against the fabric tape, stretching it out and losing the support that initially felt secure. Sweat also contributes to the tape losing support.
4. Consistent Reapplication: Tape loses its effectiveness over time, often requiring reapplication several times during an extended activity.
5. Potential Skin Irritation: Extended use of tape can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals(1).

Ankle Bracing: The Modern Tool

Ankle braces, on the other hand, represent a more contemporary approach to ankle support. These braces, typically made from plastic or fabric, are designed to be easily applied by the athlete and reused for multiple practices and games. They offer varying levels of support depending on the specific needs of the ankle.

Advantages of Ankle Bracing:

1. Ease of Use: Ankle braces are generally easier and quicker to put on compared to taping. This convenience can be particularly beneficial for athletes who need to prepare quickly before practices or games(2).
2. Durability and Reusability: Unlike tape, ankle braces can be used repeatedly over an extended period, making them a cost-effective solution for long-term use(2).
3. Support: Typically, an ankle brace provides more consistent support than tape. Hinged ankle braces, in particular, maintain ankle support for longer periods of time, even during intense activities.

Disadvantages of Ankle Bracing:

1. Less Customizable: Unlike taping, braces come in fixed designs and may not offer the same level of personalization to the individual’s anatomy(2).
2. Potential Discomfort: Some users may find ankle braces bulky or uncomfortable, especially those made with rigid plastic. Finding the right fit and design can mitigate some of these issues but may require trial and error(2).

Ultra Ankle® Braces: The True Modern Tool

A notable example of high-quality ankle braces is the Ultra Ankle® line of braces. These braces are designed to provide exceptional support and comfort, making them a preferred choice for many athletes and individuals with ankle injuries. Let’s delve into the advantages of using Ultra Ankle braces:

Advantages of Ultra Ankle Braces:

1. Ease of Use: Ultra Ankle® braces are generally easier and quicker to put on compared to taping, reducing preparation time before activities. This ease of use ensures that athletes can spend more time focusing on their performance rather than on injury prevention preparations(3).
2. Durability and Reusability: Ultra Ankle® braces are known for their durability. They are designed for repeated use over an extended period, making them a cost-effective solution for long-term use. This durability ensures consistent support and protection across numerous practices and games(3).
3. Innovative Design: The Ultra Ankle® braces are recognized for their innovative designs, which consider different ankle injuries and the varying degrees of support needed. For example:
   • Ultra Zoom® Ankle Brace: Aimed at preventing or recovering from ankle sprains, it offers flexibility while maintaining robust support.
   • Ultra High-5® Ankle Brace: Designed for individuals with chronic ankle instability, it provides enhanced stability to prevent recurring injuries.
4. Comfort and Fit: Unlike some other brands, Ultra Ankle® braces are often praised for their comfort and ability to fit snugly without being excessively bulky. This comfort is achieved through designs like the Ultra Zoom® and Ultra CTS®, which form a custom fit to the foot and ankle using body heat.
5. Maintaining Ankle Strength: The Ultra Zoom®, Ultra CTS®, and Ultra High-5® offer a different approach than almost any other ankle brace on the market. Instead of imposing a universal restriction on the ankle’s movement, these braces feature a hinged design that allows for a more natural range of motion. This ensures that while the ankle is supported and safeguarded from dangerous movements, it can still move freely within the safe zone. As a result, the muscles and tendons in the ankle continue to be actively engaged during movement, promoting their strength and function. This approach makes the Ultra Zoom®, Ultra CTS®, and Ultra High-5® braces not just protective devices but tools for maintaining, and even improving, the overall health and strength of the ankle(3).

Ankle Taping vs Ankle Braces: The Verdict

When choosing between ankle taping and bracing, it ultimately depends on your individual needs, comfort, and the nature of your activities. Here’s a comparative look to help you make an informed decision:

• Short-term Use or Specific Sporting Events: For short-term use or during a specific sporting event, taping can provide the right amount of support and flexibility. It allows for a high degree of customization tailored to the athlete’s specific requirements and the nature of the sport source.
• Ongoing Competition or Everyday Use: For ongoing competition or daily use, an Ultra Ankle brace is a more practical and cost-effective solution. The durability, ease of use, and consistent support provided by these braces make them ideal for long-term ankle health management(3).

Consulting a Healthcare Provider: It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider regarding your specific requirements. They can offer personalized advice based on your injury history, level of activity, and overall health(1).

Complementary Strength and Balance Training: While ankle taping and braces can provide valuable support, they should be complemented by strength and balance training exercises. These exercises help build robust and resilient ankles, further preventing injuries(2).

Conclusion

The debate between ankle taping and ankle braces is not about finding a clear winner, but about understanding their benefits and limitations. By doing so, you can make an informed decision that best suits your lifestyle, activity level, and personal comfort. Remember, preventing injuries is always better than treating them. Take care of your ankles – you literally stand on the foundation they provide. Optimum ankle health not only boosts your physical performance but also enhances your overall quality of life. Stay strong, stay active, and stride forward with confidence!