What is The Best Type of Ankle Support for Me?

The ankle is one of the body’s most major weight-bearing joints, and therefore, both ankle mobility and stability are essential in regular bodily functions. When finding the “best” type of ankle support, it is crucial to first identify the issue regarding your ankle and what you would like to achieve from the ankle support. This is because ankle supports come in all shapes and functions, specific to the injury. Generally, ankle supports are worn to stabilise and support the ankle joint in cases of instability, provide immobilisation to allow the ankle to recover from injuries, or prevent ankle injuries from activities involving quick stop-and-go movements.

 

Types of Ankle Supports

There are three main types of ankle supports to choose from:

  1. Compression sleeve: compression knit fabric and gel pads for muscle stimulation and 'internal' support
  2. Sleeves with Straps: Added figure 8 straps further stabilise the ankle
  3. Splint braces: rigid shells with straps or wraps for maximum stability and protection

Read more: What Ankle Injury Do I Have?

 

Compression Sleeve

Ankle compression sleeves essentially feel like socks. They provide compression around the ankle joint, reduce swelling, and aid with mild pain and slight instability.

Our compression sleeves are made of breathable three-dimensional knit created to conform to the natural shape of the ankle and provide graduated compression for improved circulation. They are comfortable to wear all day long while not restricting your normal range of movement.  The MalleoTrain Ankle Support is a fantastic compression sleeve that also features two contoured viscoelastic pads behind each ankle bone to help improve nerve function and massage painful areas.

MalleoTrain Ankle Support 
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Compression Sleeves with Straps

Some compression braces also incorporate a figure 8 strap, which mimics ankle tape without the hassle. The added straps are generally made of a range of materials and vary in flexibility and thickness. However, once fitted and tightened around the ankle, the added straps greatly increase the ankle's stability and provide support without restricting movement. 

The MalleoTrain Plus combines the soothing gel inserts and compression mentioned previously from the MalleoTrain and adds adjustable figure 8 straps to stabilise the ankle joint. It is the perfect brace for ankle instability due to ligament injuries. It is also a great brace for rolled ankles as it prevents lateral twisting. If you need to fit into tight shoes, the MalleoTrain S is essentially the same brace without the gel inserts.

 

MalleoTrain Plus Ankle Support
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MalleoTrain S Ankle Support
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Splint Braces

Splint braces are best for moderate to severe instability and injury. They are generally made from durable semi-rigid plastic that starts from the top of the foot and loops around the sides to the bottom of the foot. Several straps hold splint braces tightly against the foot and ankle. Due to their rigid nature, these supports are highly stable and aid in a controlled range of motion by preventing the ankle from rolling inwards or outwards.

The anatomically shaped MalleoLoc and the MalleoLoc L  provide support while remaining comfortable to wear throughout the day and fit in most shoes. The extra cushioning in the soles helps combat soreness within the base of the foot, and the adjustable straps allow you to tailor the compression level. These are perfect for moderate to severe ankle instability, ligament ruptures, sprains, and sprain prevention.

 

MalleoLoc L Ankle Support
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Special Mention: Hybrid Ankle Support

Whilst each type of support offers its own benefits, they can be combined into a hybrid ankle support that features all previously mentioned aspects, such as a compression sleeve, strapping, and a splint. These types of supports will offer the highest level of support and stability while also allowing complete adjustability and control over the level of compression and rigidity.

The Malleoloc L3 is a great example of a hybrid ankle support that features all 3 components. It is an incredibly versatile and comfortable ankle support that can be used throughout the entire rehab process by relieving pain and stabilising the ankle. Unique to the MalleoLoc L3, each component can be utilised in different combinations, e.g. the compression sleeve can be used alone or in conjunction with the splint and straps, depending on the recovery process. It is ideal for moderate to severe instability issues, such as ruptured ligaments and severe ankle sprains.

 

MalleoLoc L3 Ankle Support
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