Tape or brace your ankle? - Find the right aid for your complaint
What is better for the ankle, taping or a brace? Both options offer support, but differ greatly in ease of use, effectiveness and purpose. Taping is useful for short-term use and acute injuries, while a brace is suitable for long-term support.
In this blog, we explain what best suits your situation, whether you play sports, are recovering from an injury or want to protect your ankle preventively. Want to know which support works best for your ankle complaint? Then read on.
The blog in brief:
- Taping provides temporary and precise support for the ankle
- A brace is reusable, easy to apply and ideal for daily use
- The choice depends on your injury, lifestyle and personal preference
Why choose ankle taping?
Taping is a popular technique, especially among athletes. It provides firm support for the ankle and restricts movement in a controlled manner. Taping is often used for a sprained ankle or an injury to the side of the foot to reduce swelling and stabilise the ankle. Taping provides:
- Light compression, which can reduce swelling in a severely bruised ankle
- Tape can be very helpful for complaints such as pain on the side of the foot
- Stabilisation of the ankle
When is it better to use a brace?
An ankle brace is particularly suitable for long-term use or during daily activities. Braces are easy to put on, can be reused and provide constant support without having to reapply tape. For those who experience regular complaints or want to protect their ankle at work or during sports, a brace is a practical solution. Other reasons why a brace is ideal:
- A brace is easy to apply yourself without the help of a professional
- It is ideal for office work, walking or light sports activities
- A brace provides lasting support and is often more comfortable for everyday use
- There are also stylish and discreet braces available to wear under your clothing
How do you make the right choice?
It is understandable that you are unsure whether to choose tape or a brace. Both have their own advantages, depending on the situation. For one-off support for an acute injury, tape is often sufficient. However, if you are recovering from a fracture or looking for preventive support, a brace is usually the better choice.
What do professionals say about taping the ankle or using a brace?
Physiotherapists and trainers weigh the pros and cons of tape and braces in their treatment plans, depending on the type of injury and the goal. According to recent guidelines and studies, a brace is often preferred for long-term support, while tape is suitable for short-term or acute complaints. Proprioception, the sense of balance and body position, also plays an important role in this choice.
How do you apply support in everyday life?
Sometimes you just want to be able to work or move without constantly thinking about your ankle. This is especially true if you cannot (or do not want to) apply tape every day. A brace is often more practical in such cases. Nowadays, there are also stylish options that are virtually invisible underneath clothing.
What can you do after an ankle injury?
After a sprain, bruise or fracture, it is important to gradually strengthen your ankle. Exercises after a fracture help restore stability and muscle strength. Combine these with the right support to prevent overexertion. Do not simply bandage your ankle yourself if you sprain it, but seek advice on the correct approach. The best way to do this is by:
- Start with light ankle exercises after the cast has been removed
- Use a brace to prevent overexertion during the recovery period
- Alternate rest with controlled movement to prevent stiffness
- Gradually increase the load with the help of a physiotherapist
What is better for your ankle? Taping or a brace?
The choice between ankle taping or a brace depends on your situation. If you have a one-off injury, or you exercise intensively, taping can work well. If you are looking for long-term, comfortable and reusable support, a brace is often the better choice. At Podobrace, you will find a wide selection of ankle braces and different types of tape that help with recovery, prevention and daily support. Our team of specialists will be happy to help you find the right solution. Do you have questions about the tape or braces? Please don't hesitate to contact us.
