Taping and bracing in the prevention of ankle sprains: current concepts

Prevention of Lateral Ankle Sprains

“…The effectiveness of taping and bracing depends on the material properties, application method, and whether the athlete has ankle instability or a history of a previous sprain. 22 The greater acceptance of ankle bracing and evolving design technology over the years has narrowed the gap between bracing and taping. The prevailing early opinion of most sports medicine clinicians and athletes was that taping provided superior benefits related to comfort, perception of greater support, and less interference with normal function.…”

“…Although many variations of ankle taping applications and brace designs are available, the obvious question is ''what exactly is the rationale for prophylactic ankle taping and bracing?'' Zwiers et al 22 best summarized the effects of ankle taping and bracing in a recent review paper using 3 categories: (1) mechanical, (2) neuromuscular, and (3) psychological.…”

“…Neuromuscular control in and around the ankle joint is achieved via a combination of improved proprioception, peroneal muscle activity, reflexive action, reaction time, and postural stability. 22 Taping or a brace is theorized to increase stimulation of the cutaneous mechanoreceptors, which enhances proprioception by modifying the sensitivity of the musculotendinous mechanoreceptors surrounding the joint. 24 The peroneal muscles are important evertors of the ankle joint and thought to counter violent inversion moments that typically occur during an ankle sprain.…”

“…25 However, postural control-the act of maintaining, achieving, or restoring a state of balance during any posture or activity-seems to improve with taping and bracing. 22,26 Psychological Benefits. Although not usually considered a benefit of ankle taping or bracing prescribed to prevent ankle sprains, the potential psychological aspects of this intervention strategy may be helpful.…”

Less is more

“…Effectively they will be saying; this is the problem, these are the current solutions and this is the best one (at least in our opinion). In this issue, we examine the prevention of ankle sprains and conclude with a clear message; that athletes in contact sports or other high-risk sports should apply a tape or brace to obviate a future injury 3. Remember, there is no such thing as a ‘simple ankle sprain’ and simple prevention before is better than a complicated cure after 4…”