Ankle injuries are usually known as one of the most common injuries experienced by both athletes and normal people alike which is why orthopedic ankle braces are really important. Orthopedic ankle braces mainly keep your ankle stable and lessen the pressure off it by restricting the movement. This is very fundamental as ankle injuries such as sprains and strains are extremely painful when moved. Orthopedic ankle braces makes the pain more manageable and allows the injured part to heal by significantly reducing the trauma inflicted to it when walking.

There are actually several types of orthopedic ankle braces that can be used to treat ankle injuries. The one that is commonly used immediately after the ankle is injured is the rigid ankle braces. This type of ankle braces totally immobilizes the ankle so that it cannot be moved by the patient. Immobilizing the ankle at once after being injured is utterly important as it is very painful for the person affected even if the foot was just moved for a bit. On top of this, immobilizing the injured ankle protects the newly injured area from further damage or injury .

The functional ankle braces is another form of orthopedic ankle braces. This category includes Aircast or semirigid braces, soft braces, and lace-up braces. As compared to rigid ankle braces, these types of braces provides more mobility to the ankle. Recent research reveals that treating acute ankle sprains with functional ankle braces have better results as compared to the treatment that involves restricting the ankle with rigid ankle braces. Those who treated their ankle injury with functional ankle braces have faster recovery period, less inflammation and instability, and greater overall satisfaction.

Furthermore, athletes involved in sports that are susceptible to ankle injuries such as basketball and football, can use a special type of orthopedic ankle braces known as prophylactic ankle braces. These kinds of braces are effective in protecting users from ankle injuries. They are higly ideal for athletes who have a history of ankle injury thereby lessening the chance of recurring injury. The payoff of using these kind of bracers is that it can restrict ankle movement which some people may find uncomfortable and affect their performance.