What Does Compression Do for an Ankle?

The ankle, as a key part of the human lower limb, plays a vital role in daily activities and various sports. However, its complex structure and frequent stresses also expose it to many challenges and risks. Whether it is in sports protection, injury rehabilitation or daily maintenance, the role of compression on the ankle is worthy of in-depth investigation and analysis, which intervenes in the physiological state and functional performance of the ankle in a unique way, and protects the normal operation of the ankle.

Limit Excessive Activity: Compression ankle brace can effectively limit excessive flexion and extension, internal and external turning and other movements of the ankle. For example, in the process of sports, such as basketball players in the rapid change of direction, football players in the sharp stop and turn, the ankle is very easy to appear out of the normal range of action, the compression device is like a ‘protective guard’, the ankle range of motion control in the safe zone, reduce the risk of injury.

Enhance Joint Stability: By wrapping around the ankle, it provides extra support for the joint. For some people with more fragile ankle joints, such as the elderly or those who have had previous ankle injuries, this stability is like adding a ‘safety lock’ to the ankle, allowing them to better maintain the normal anatomical position of the ankle and reduce joint wobbling during daily activities such as walking and walking up and down stairs.

Improve Blood Circulation: Compression improves blood circulation around the ankle. When moderate compression is applied to the ankle, it acts as a benign external pressure on the blood vessels, pushing the blood to flow more smoothly. For example, after standing for long periods of time, blood from the feet tends to pool in the lower extremities, and compression of the ankle brace can help the blood flow back to the heart, reducing congestion in the ankle.

Helps Lymphatic Return: In the event of an ankle injury or inflammation, lymphatic fluid tends to build up locally. The pressure exerted by the compression brace for ankle helps the lymphatic fluid to return, acting as a ‘booster’ to the lymphatic system, reducing the pooling of lymphatic fluid, and thus reducing the degree of ankle swelling.

Prevention of Injury Recurrence: For people with a history of ankle injuries, wearing a compression ankle support brace over a long period of time can be a preventative measure. It continues to provide support and stability to the ankle, reducing the likelihood of recurrence of old injuries due to accidental movement or overuse, and is like a layer of ‘protective armour’ for the ankle.