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Ankle braces are a great way to relieve pain, swelling, and instability caused by an ankle sprain. However, since sprains can vary significantly in severity, it’s essential to know the type of brace best suited for your particular case. So, here are the best ankle braces for grade 1, 2, and 3 sprains.
Ankle sprain symptoms
The ankle joint has around 11 ligaments, which are fibrous bands of tissue that connect bone to bone and prevent bone ends from sliding too far apart. An ankle sprain occurs when you overstretch, partially tear, or fully rupture one of these ligaments. Depending on the severity of the sprain, you may experience pain, swelling, and instability. In more severe cases, you may not be able to put weight on your injured ankle at all.
Best braces for ankle sprains
b:joynz ankle support (mild sprains)
b:joynz ankle support
Mild ankle sprains occur when the ligament is simply overstretched or has microscopic tears. Since the ankle is still stable, this type of sprain generally doesn’t require robust protection. Hence, soft braces like the b:joynz ankle support are best.
Its compression knit fabric works with 2 gel pads sewn into the sides of your ankle to relieve pain and swelling. They also stimulate the muscles, helping them support the joint through movement.
As an added bonus, the brace has breathable knit and reduced pressure edges for long-wearing comfort.
b:joynz ankle brace (mild to moderate ankle sprains)
b:joynz ankle brace
Lace-up braces like this are best for mild to moderate sprains, which are when a tear is present. The medial and lateral stays provide extra stability, especially if your ankle feels wobbly after the injury. The lace-up design allows you to adjust the pressure and account for any swelling.
The brace is breathable and machine washable and will fit into most shoes.
b:joynz ankle stirrup (moderate to severe ligament tears)
b:joynz ankle stirrup
This brace is best for moderate to severe sprains and post-operative recovery. Its anatomically shaped shells and straps offer extra security for your ankle and prevent excess supination and pronation.
The air gel cushion ensures long-wearing comfort. The shells conform to the ankle, so the brace fits most shoes.
b:joynz air walker soft (best brace for severe sprains and ruptures)
b:joynz air walker soft
Rigid, immobilising ankle braces like this are best for severe ligament injuries, where the ligament is fully torn. The air walker locks the ankle and foot in place and incorporates a rocker sole so you can walk normally without stretching the healing ligaments. The adjustable air bladder provides support and compression in order to reduce swelling and promote the healing process.
Note: Depending on your doctor's advice, you can wear this brace post-ankle ligament reconstruction surgery or as a conservative treatment method. If the ligament ends are still close enough together (i.e., not retracted), you may not need surgery. Post-surgery, your surgeon may recommend wearing a rigid brace for a few weeks to assist the healing process.
What else does a sprained ankle need
- Head to your GP as soon as possible. They’ll evaluate your condition and recommend the next steps, which may include an MRI, physiotherapy, and/or a home recovery routine.
- RICE for the first few days of injury. Rest your ankle, apply an ice pack for 15 minutes every 2 hours, compress the area, and elevate your leg. These steps will kickstart the healing process and reduce any pain and swelling.
- As you heal and return to physical activity, protecting your ankle is crucial. A compression brace like the b:joynz ankle support will be beneficial, as it doesn’t have rigid parts and will instead work with the muscle to protect the injury site.
Best braces for ankle sprains: the takeaway
Generally, the best ankle brace for your sprain depends on the severity of your injury. Soft braces are best for grade 1 sprains, semi-rigid for grade 2, and rigid for grade 3 and immediate post-op recovery. Other factors you should consider include fit and adjustability for the right level of support and to accommodate swelling, as well as material quality and comfort to last you throughout the weeks of recovery.
