Ease the Pain: How to Properly Put On An Ankle Support

Intro

Ankle injuries can be incredibly painful and can severely limit mobility. In such situations, wearing an ankle support can help to reduce the pain and support the healing process. But if you've never used an ankle support before, you may not know how to put it on properly. In this blog post, we'll guide you through the steps on how to put on an ankle support to ensure that you get the maximum benefits from it.

Place the heel of the brace over the Achilles tendon

When putting on an ankle support, it is important to ensure that it is placed in the correct position for maximum effectiveness. To begin, start by locating the Achilles tendon at the back of your ankle. Once you have found it, position the heel of the brace over this area. This will help to provide added support and stability to your ankle while also helping to alleviate any pain or discomfort.

When placing the heel of the brace over your Achilles tendon, make sure that it fits snugly but comfortably. You want to ensure that it is providing the right amount of pressure without cutting off circulation or causing discomfort. If the brace feels too tight or uncomfortable, adjust it accordingly before moving on to the next step.

By placing the heel of the brace over your Achilles tendon, you are creating a strong foundation for your ankle support that will help to stabilize your foot during activity. This can be especially beneficial if you are recovering from an injury or suffer from chronic ankle pain. Remember, the key is to make sure that the brace is positioned properly so that it can do its job effectively.

Wrap the long strap around the calf

After positioning the heel of the brace over your Achilles tendon, it's time to wrap the long strap around your calf. Start at the front of your leg, just below your knee, and work your way down. Make sure that the strap is snug but not too tight, as you want to be able to move your foot and ankle comfortably.

When wrapping the long strap, make sure it's centered on your calf. The strap should be snug enough to provide support, but not so tight that it restricts blood flow. If you feel any numbness or tingling in your foot, loosen the strap immediately.

Some ankle supports may have adjustable straps or hook and loop closures. In this case, make sure to adjust the tension so that it's comfortable and supportive for your specific needs.

It's important to note that you don't want to over-tighten the ankle support. Doing so may actually cause more discomfort or even hinder your range of motion. You want to find a balance between support and comfort that will allow you to move your ankle freely while still providing the necessary support to prevent further injury.

Remember, proper positioning and tension of an ankle support can make all the difference in your recovery process. Follow these simple steps and adjust as needed to ensure a comfortable and effective fit.

Fasten the shorter straps across the foot

After you have wrapped the long strap around your calf, the next step is to fasten the shorter straps across your foot. These straps are usually located at the front of the ankle support, just above your ankle bone.

Start by pulling the straps snugly across your foot, making sure that they are not too tight or too loose. It's important to achieve a comfortable and secure fit, as this will help to reduce pain and prevent further injury.

Once you have positioned the straps correctly, use the Velcro tabs to fasten them securely in place. Be sure to double-check that each strap is securely fastened before moving on to the next step.

It's worth noting that some ankle supports may have more than one set of shorter straps. If this is the case, make sure to follow the instructions that come with your specific product to ensure that you are applying it correctly.

Overall, the process of fastening the shorter straps across your foot may seem straightforward, but it is an essential part of properly putting on an ankle support. Take the time to do it right, and you'll be rewarded with greater comfort, stability, and protection for your ankle.

Adjust tension as needed

After putting on the ankle support, it is important to make sure that it is snug and providing enough support. Adjust the tension as needed by pulling on the straps until you feel comfortable and secure. However, be careful not to tighten the brace too much as this may cause discomfort and limit circulation. 

When adjusting the tension, make sure to move your ankle around to ensure that you have enough mobility and that the brace is not restricting movement. You should also pay attention to any pain or discomfort while wearing the brace. If you experience any discomfort, adjust the tension or try loosening the brace a bit.

It is also important to note that ankle supports are meant to provide temporary relief and should not be worn for extended periods of time. Consult with your doctor or physical therapist to determine how long you should wear the brace and when it is safe to stop using it.