Helena Frye
Ankle braces are a common accessory for basketball players. Basketball is a sport that involves a lot of movement, and as a result, ankle injuries are common. Ankle braces are designed to provide compression and support to the ankle joint, reducing the risk of ankle sprains and other injuries. Some players avoid wearing ankle braces due to concerns about their appearance or performance, but research suggests that ankle braces do not significantly impede performance and can help prevent injuries. There are several types of ankle braces available, including rigid, semi-rigid, lace-up, and sleeve/wrap styles, and the best type for an individual depends on factors such as the level of protection and risk needed.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Reduce ankle sprains | Three times as many athletes sprain their ankle while not wearing an ankle brace. |
| Protection | Semi-rigid braces restrict more inversion and eversion before and after exercise. |
| Performance | Ankle braces do not affect performance, speed or agility. |
| Durability | Choose a high-quality brace made with durable materials that can withstand wear and tear. |
| Fit | A brace needs to fit properly to be effective and prevent further problems. |
| Comfort | Comfort is also a factor to consider so you're more likely to wear it when necessary. |
| Design | Look for a slim, form-fitting profile that works well with a variety of shoe styles. |
| Cost-effective | Wearing lace-up ankle braces may be a cost-effective injury prevention strategy. |
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What You'll Learn
Ankle braces can reduce the risk of ankle sprains
Basketball is a sport that is particularly tough on the ankle joint. Ankle injuries are the most common injury in basketball players, with lateral ankle sprains being the most prevalent. The American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society estimates that 25,000 people sprain their ankle every day.
Research has shown that athletes are two to three times more likely to sprain their ankle when not wearing an ankle brace. Timothy McGuine's 2011 study, "The Effect of Lace-up Ankle Braces on Injury Rates in High School Basketball Players", found that three times as many athletes sprained their ankle while playing without ankle braces than with one. This was true for athletes of all genders, competition levels, and grades. The study also found that 68% fewer first-time ankle injuries occurred while the athletes were wearing ankle braces.
Several systematic reviews have confirmed that ankle braces can prevent recurrent ankle sprains. Additionally, a recent study found that the Active Ankle semi-rigid brace significantly reduced inversion ROM and knee forces during a cutting maneuver in female basketball players compared to a lace-up brace. This is important because basketball players are prone to lateral ankle sprains and injuries to the ligaments on the outside of the foot. Ankle braces that offer rigidity to prevent the foot from rolling inward can be particularly effective in preventing these types of injuries.
While some people believe that ankle braces may impair performance or increase injuries, there is no evidence to support these claims. Researchers have found that ankle braces do not affect performance, speed, or agility, even after long-term wear. Additionally, while lab studies have shown changes in landing forces and knee kinematics during jump landing while wearing an ankle brace, there is no evidence of increased knee injuries during the season.
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Braces do not impede performance, speed or agility
While some athletes worry that ankle braces may impede their performance, speed, or agility, this is not supported by evidence. In fact, multiple studies have shown that ankle braces do not affect performance, speed, or agility, even after long-term wear.
For example, a 2011 study by Timothy McGuine at the University of Wisconsin found that athletes playing without ankle braces were three times more likely to sprain their ankles. The study, which looked at about 1,400 student athletes, also found that 68% fewer first-time ankle injuries occurred while athletes were wearing ankle braces.
Another study, published in 2017, found that athletes were two to three times more likely to sprain their ankles when not wearing an ankle brace. This study also reported that lateral ankle sprains were the most common injury in US college student athletes, with men's and women's basketball having the highest rates.
Despite the evidence that ankle braces can effectively prevent ankle sprains, some athletes remain concerned about their potential impact on performance. However, research on sports-specific tasks, such as volleyball, has shown no impact on knee forces or functional performance.
In conclusion, while ankle braces may restrict motion to some degree, they do not significantly hinder performance, speed, or agility. Therefore, athletes who are prone to ankle sprains or play sports with a high risk of ankle injuries, such as basketball, should strongly consider wearing ankle braces as a preventive measure.
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Braces can prevent recurrent ankle sprains
Basketball players are susceptible to ankle sprains, with the sport accounting for 41% of all ankle sprains treated in American emergency departments. Timothy McGuine's 2011 study found that athletes were three times more likely to sprain their ankles without an ankle brace. Several systematic reviews confirm that ankle braces can prevent recurrent ankle sprains, and high school athletes who use them experience fewer ankle injuries.
While some believe that ankle braces may impair performance or cause muscle weakness, there is no evidence to support these claims. Research has shown that ankle braces do not affect performance, speed, or agility, even after long-term wear. Additionally, those who wear ankle braces are not immobilized and generally only wear them during their sport.
The type of ankle brace that is best for preventing sprains depends on the individual. Semi-rigid braces restrict more inversion and eversion before and after exercise than lace-up braces or tape, but are less restrictive in dorsi- and plantar flexion, which are motions associated with jumping sports. For those with residual ankle instability, researchers recommend a semi-rigid brace, while those with less instability and risk can opt for a lace-up brace.
While ankle braces can help prevent ankle sprains, they are not a cure-all. To further reduce the risk of ankle sprains, athletes can perform balance training exercises and strengthen the muscles on the outside of the foot (evertors).
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Braces do not cause muscle weakness
Basketball players often wonder whether they should wear ankle braces while playing. The game involves a lot of jumping and quick movements, which can lead to injuries. In fact, ankle sprains are the most common injury in US college student athletes, with men's and women's basketball having the highest rates.
Some people believe that ankle braces may impair performance or cause muscle weakness. However, this is a myth. While braces do restrict motion, several studies have shown that they do not affect performance, speed, or agility, even after long-term wear. Furthermore, there is no evidence that ankle muscles become weaker after wearing an ankle brace during the season. Although there is some evidence of delayed activation of muscles associated with wearing an ankle brace, researchers found no effect on muscle activation with prolonged use.
Ankle braces are designed 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. This helps to provide additional support to the ankle and prevent injuries. In fact, research shows that athletes who wear ankle braces experience fewer ankle injuries. For example, a 2011 study by Timothy McGuine found that three times as many athletes sprained their ankles while playing without ankle braces compared to those who wore them.
While some people may be concerned about the potential for muscle weakness or impaired performance, the benefits of ankle braces in preventing injuries outweigh these concerns. However, it is important to note that wearing an ankle brace is not a 100% guarantee against injuries, and rehabilitation is also crucial for recovery.
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Braces are available in different types, colours and styles
Braces are available in different types, colours, and styles, and can be an effective way to protect your ankles from injury when playing basketball. The sport involves a lot of lateral movement and quick direction changes, which can leave players vulnerable to ankle injuries and sprains.
Firstly, when it comes to types, you can choose from lace-up braces or those with adjustable elastic straps. Lace-up braces, such as the Ultra 360, offer a more customisable fit, allowing you to adjust for a snug or slightly looser fit. The Ultra 360 is also a good option for players who want lightweight protection without the bulk. On the other hand, braces with adjustable elastic straps, like the McDavid Bio-Logix Ankle Brace, provide maximum support and stability. This type of brace often includes additional features such as anti-slip silicone on the sole and memory foam padding.
Secondly, ankle braces come in a variety of colours. While some braces are designed to be discreet and slim, others are bulkier and more noticeable. For instance, the Ultra Zoom and Ultra 360 braces are available in black and white.
Lastly, in terms of styles, you can find braces with different key features such as compression, support, comfort, and stability. Some braces offer a combination of compression and structural support, while others focus primarily on compression. Braces with compression often feature a strapping system that replicates athletic taping patterns. Additionally, some braces have laces, hinges, rigid supports, or extra straps and inserts to enhance stability.
Overall, when choosing an ankle brace, it's important to consider not only the aesthetics but also the functionality and fit. A properly fitted brace will be more effective and comfortable, increasing the likelihood that you'll wear it consistently.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, according to Timothy McGuine's research in 2011, wearing lace-up ankle braces reduced the number of ankle sprains by three times. Other studies have also shown that athletes are 2 to 3 times more likely to sprain their ankle when not wearing an ankle brace.
Some people believe that wearing ankle braces may impair performance or even increase injuries. However, there is no evidence to support these claims. While ankle braces do restrict motion, studies have shown that they do not significantly affect performance, speed or agility.
The type of ankle brace you should wear depends on various factors such as the amount of protection needed, level of risk, comfort, and fit. There are generally three types of ankle braces: rigid/semi-rigid, lace-up, and sleeve/wrap.
