Ankle Stirrup

How Long Do You Wear Ankle Stirrup?

The duration for which you wear an ankle stirrup can vary depending on several factors:

1. After an Injury 

• Mild Ankle Sprain: For a mild ankle sprain, an ankle stirrup might typically be worn for about 1 to 2 weeks. This typically occurs during the initial phase, when the ligaments require support to heal and reduce the risk of reinjury as you begin to move around again. During this time, it's worn during most of your waking hours, especially when you're on your feet or engaging in light activities.
• Moderate to Severe Ankle Sprain: In cases of moderate or severe sprains, you may need to wear the ankle stirrup for 3 to 6 weeks or even longer. The first few weeks involve wearing it continuously throughout the day, except when bathing or sleeping, as the ligaments take more time to repair. As the healing progresses and the pain and swelling subside, you can gradually reduce the wearing time under the guidance of a doctor or physical therapist.
• Ankle Fracture: After an ankle fracture has healed to a point where the cast is removed and you start rehabilitation, an aircast air stirrup ankle support brace can be used for several weeks to months. Initially, it can be worn for a significant portion of the day, typically for 4 to 8 weeks, to provide stability as you begin to put weight on the ankle and perform gentle exercises. Over time, the wearing time may be decreased as the ankle regains strength and normal function.

2. For Sports Protection

• Regular Use During Sports Seasons: Athletes who use ankle stirrups for preventive purposes during their sports seasons typically wear them throughout the entire season. For example, a basketball player might put on an ankle stirrup for every practice and game, which could span several months, to reduce the risk of ankle injuries while running, jumping, and changing directions on the court.
• Recreational Sports: If you're engaging in recreational sports, such as weekend soccer games or tennis matches, and choose to wear an Aircast stirrup ankle splint for protection, you'd typically put it on just before the activity and take it off afterward. It would be worn for the few hours you participate in the sport each time.

3. For Chronic Ankle Conditions

• Ankle Instability: If you have chronic ankle instability due to previous injuries or other factors, you may need to wear an ankle stirrup long-term. Some people wear them intermittently for months or even years, depending on the severity of their instability. They might put it on when they know they'll be engaging in activities that put extra stress on the ankle, such as going for a long walk or doing yard work.
• Arthritis: For those with ankle arthritis, wearing a stirrup splint for the ankle can help relieve pain and provide support during daily activities. The wearing time can vary from a few hours a day when symptoms are mild to wearing it throughout the day if the arthritis is causing significant discomfort and mobility issues.

It's essential to follow the guidance of a medical professional, such as a doctor or physical therapist, regarding the duration of wearing an ankle stirrup. They will consider your specific condition, the progress of your recovery or management of the condition, and other individual factors to give you the most appropriate recommendation.