Ankle Device

How to Choose the Right Ankle Device for Your Needs

By Gladiator Therapeutics

April 30, 2024

Ankle injuries are more common than you think. Everyone is at risk of an ankle injury, not just athletes. In the U.S., approximately 25,000 ankle injuries occur every day. However, the actual number may be far more than this as less than half of the people with ankle sprains seek medical attention.

Not all ankle injuries are serious, especially soft tissue injuries. In most cases, a sprained ankle will recover in a few days or weeks. However, if ignored and healed incorrectly, it might lead to chronic pain and other complications. That’s where an ankle device comes in. It can help you recover relatively quickly and more efficiently.

Let’s understand how an ankle therapy device works and how to choose the one that best fits your needs.

What is an Ankle Device?

An ankle device can include braces, supports, sleeves, and orthotics. It is meant to help you recover from an ankle injury. Although these devices can vary in design and function, they typically provide stability, compression, and support.

However, the Gladiator MD™ Ankle/Elbow recovery device does a lot more than that. This innovative ankle therapy device provides relief from pain and inflammation. You can use it to recover from soft tissue injuries and pre- or post-surgical procedures.

It can reduce the need for pain medication and injections. But more importantly, this device can assist in healing minor tears of soft tissue and cartilage.

Assess Your Needs First

As mentioned, not all ankle injuries are the same. While some may recover quickly, others might need months to heal, with or without an ankle device. Secondly, your lifestyle and comfort will also affect your ankle injury’s ability to recover. Because of this, you have to consider these three factors first.

1. Type and Severity of Your Ankle Injury

How severe is your injury? Every type of ankle injury needs specific support, treatment, and medication. You can’t use the same treatment for soft tissue injuries like sprains and chronic conditions like arthritis.

You will need to choose a device based on the type and severity of your injury. For example, our ankle therapy device is an excellent way to recover from soft tissue injuries and pre- or post-surgical procedures. It could be the right choice if you have a minor sprain or need to recover from surgery.

2. Your Activity Level and Lifestyle

Your activity level and lifestyle will also decide which ankle therapy device is best for your recovery. For example, athletes might need a device with extensive support and stability because they lead more active lives.

However, if you lead a more desk-bound life, you might want a device that fits comfortably for hours. It should also be easy to use.

3. Comfort and Fit

The ankle device should fit snugly yet comfortably. It should adjust around your ankle and provide the necessary support. Any discomfort can increase the risk of further injury and delay your existing ankle injury recovery.

So, make sure the device properly fits your ankle, whether you are sitting at the desk or going out for groceries.

Choose the Right Type of Ankle Device

Braces, supports, sleeves, and orthotics are the most common types of ankle devices available. Each device serves a specific purpose. For instance, braces provide excellent support and stability to the joint. They are a good choice for treating sprains, fractures, and tendonitis.

Supports and sleeves, on the other hand, provide relatively milder support. You can use ankle sleeves to recover from general pain or the pain from tendonitis. Braces can help immobilize the ankle joint and reduce swelling after an injury.

However, orthotic devices are designed to correct foot alignment and relieve pressure. For example, ankle-foot orthoses, or AFOs, are custom-made devices that fit around your ankle, foot, and leg. These ankle devices help improve your walking, prevent deformities, and maintain stability.

Consider These Key Features When Selecting the Right Ankle Device

In addition to finding a device that meets your specific needs, you will also consider its key features, including:

1. Level of Support

Each ankle therapy device offers varying levels of physical therapy and support. For example, ankle sleeves provide mild support, which is often sufficient for minor injuries or as a preventive measure. You might have seen many athletes use ankle sleeves for protection. On the other hand, severe injuries, like a broken ligament, might require a device with more advanced support.

2. Material and Construction

You also need to consider what type of material the ankle device is made from. Many devices, like ankle sleeves and our ankle therapy device, are made with breathable fabric. This fabric helps maintain skin health and comfort, especially during prolonged use. Also, high-quality materials mean the device can last longer and offer consistent support.

3. Adjustability and Customization

The device should fit around your ankle snugly. It should have straps and laces for a custom fit. If the ankle device fits comfortably, it can help you recover more efficiently.

A perfect fit also helps you do your daily tasks without any discomfort. Be sure the device is adjustable and customizable.

Check Out the Ankle Therapy Device at Gladiator Therapeutics

Ankle devices can help you recover more efficiently from your injury. However, you need to choose the right device. It involves considering factors like injury type, lifestyle, and comfort. You need a device that fits snuggly, causes no discomfort, and provides the required support.

Gladiator Therapeutics has developed a product that offers all of these things. We offer a wide range of groundbreaking devices that help you recover from an injury or surgical procedure. Are you looking for an ankle device that meets all of your needs? Try our Gladiator MD™ Ankle/Elbow recovery device for optimal healing and recovery. Contact us today to learn how our products can help

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