Foot Braces & Ankle Braces
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How To Treat Ankle Injury
If a foot or ankle injury or a chronic condition that affects your foot or ankle is making it hard for you to complete your daily activities or exercise, there are ways that you can help address the discomfort. Ankle braces and foot braces can provide support, allowing you to workout, play sports or carry on with your everyday activities more comfortably. CVS stocks a diverse assortment of foot and ankle braces, so you can find the right option for your needs quickly and buy a new brace online.
Foot And Ankle Brace
A foot or ankle brace is a supportive garment that is worn for protection or for stabilization while allowing the foot or ankle to heal from an injury such as a sprain. The brace helps to reduce mobility while providing light compression to the area. A foot or ankle brace is commonly used during rehabilitation and are made from rigid material such as nylon or neoprene, which helps limit mobility to the wearer.
Ankle Support Sleeves
For mild pain and swelling, ankle support sleeves are often used. An ankle sleeve is a stretchy sheath that looks similar to a sock but with cutouts that expose the heel, the toes and the forefoot. Designed to fit snugly, ankle sleeves compress the joint, helping to provide support for the muscles around the ankle. The compression action also helps enhance blood flow to the joint and the foot.
Ankle Stabilizers
When more support is required for the ankle, there are other types of braces available. Ankle stabilizers are one option. This type of brace looks similar to an ankle sleeve but has adjustable straps that reach across the foot or the ankle. These straps add an extra layer of support to limit side-to-side motion of the joint. Stirrup ankle braces are another alternative to ankle sleeves. This type of brace wraps around the ankle and has a strap that fits under the foot. Once in place, stirrup ankle braces support the joint and keep it properly aligned with the foot.
Arch Support Braces
For some types of foot pain, medical providers may suggest an arch support brace. This foot brace fits beneath the arch and wraps over the top of the foot. Typically, arch support braces are secured by hook-and-loop fasteners. Arch support braces gently lift the arches and provide support for the underside of your foot when you step.
How To Wear An Ankle Brace
Before using any foot or ankle brace to address pain or discomfort, be sure to consult your medical provider. He or she can tell you what type of ankle or foot brace is best for your specific needs and let you know if you require any other treatments for your injury or condition. As you shop for ankle braces or foot braces, pay attention to the sizing information. It's a good idea to measure yourself before you shop, so that you can find a brace that will fit you properly.
Related Products
Arm & Elbow Braces, Compression Hosiery & Stockings, Hand & Wrist Braces, Shoulder & Neck Braces, Thigh & Knee Braces, Waist & Back Braces
Are There Left And Right Ankle Braces?
There are many different types of ankle braces available. The vast majority of them on the market are made so that they can fit both the left and right ankles. Some braces are made so that they go on the same way regardless of which ankle you are putting it on. Others will need to be flipped inside out or secured differently depending on which ankle needs the support. If an ankle brace is made specifically for either the right or the left ankle, it will typically be printed right on the front of the packaging so that it is easy to see. If you cannot tell whether a specific brace you are interested in will work for both ankles, please do not hesitate to speak with a CVS pharmacist, who can help you figure it out.
How To Put On An Ankle Brace
The way that an ankle brace is put on will depend on which style you are using. Many ankle braces simply slide on like socks, and then are positioned based on an opening for the heel. Others will wrap around your ankle and are then secured and tightened into place using either Velcro or laces, similar to a shoe. Both options can be very effective at adding extra support for your ankle.
What Are Ankle Braces For?
Ankle braces are used to provide extra support to the tendons, muscles, and even bones in your ankle. They are typically used to help give support after a sprain or other injury so that your body can heal properly while you are still able to move around. Ankle braces are most commonly used for people who are playing sports or engaging in other activity that puts significant pressure on the ankles. While using compression to support the ankle, many people find that they also help to provide relief from pain or soreness that is often associated with overuse or an injury.