Ankle Binder

How to Tie an Ankle Binder?

An ankle binder is a common piece of ankle sports protective equipment used primarily to protect and support the ankle joint. It is usually made of an elastic material that provides some stability and compression.

Here's a general guide:

1. Put on the ankle binder 

• Place your foot into the ankle support with the binder, ensuring it is correctly positioned on your heel.
• Adjust the position of the ankle strap binding to ensure it's neither too tight nor too loose.

2. Secure the straps

• If your ankle braces are lace-up, wrap them around your ankles crosswise to keep them firmly in place.
• If your lace-up ankle braces have only one strap, wrap them crosswise around your ankle and they will keep them securely in place.

Different ankle bindings have different methods of use, and it is essential to read the instructions carefully before wearing them.

Can We Walk with an Ankle Binder?

Yes, we can walk with an ankle binder.

When it's usually okay to walk with an ankle binder

• Mild Sprains or Strains: If you have a minor ankle sprain or strain and the ankle binder is applied correctly to provide support and stability, walking short distances at a reasonable pace is often manageable. The binder can help limit excessive movement of the ankle joint, reducing pain and the risk of further injury, while allowing you to carry out basic mobility tasks, such as walking around the house or taking short trips outside.
• During the Recovery Phase: As part of the rehabilitation process after an ankle injury, when the acute pain and swelling have started to subside, wearing an ankle support with a binder while walking can help gradually strengthen the ankle and acclimate you to putting weight on it again. It gives that added sense of security and support as you work on regaining normal function.

Benefits of walking with an ankle binder

1. Enhanced Stability

An ankle binder provides additional support to the ankle joint. It wraps around the ankle, helping to maintain proper bone alignment and limit excessive side-to-side or up-and-down movements. This enhanced stability is particularly advantageous when walking on uneven surfaces, such as cobblestone paths or rough terrain.

2. Injury Prevention

It serves as a preventive measure, particularly for individuals prone to ankle injuries due to factors such as weak ankle muscles or a history of previous injuries. Athletes, such as basketball players or soccer players, often wear ankle braces during training and games. When they are running, jumping, and changing directions while walking or moving around on the field, the binder reduces the risk of the ankle giving way and suffering a sprain or ligament tear. Regular walkers who have experienced minor ankle issues in the past can also benefit from wearing one to help prevent the recurrence of the injury while going about their daily walks.

3. Pain Relief

If you already have a minor ankle injury, such as a mild sprain or strain, wearing an ankle binder while walking can help alleviate pain. The gentle compression it offers helps to reduce swelling by promoting better blood circulation in the ankle area.

Wearing an ankle binder while walking can offer multiple advantages in terms of stability, injury prevention, and pain relief, depending on your specific circumstances and the condition of your ankle.