“When should you stop wearing an ankle brace?”
I wear an ankle brace after an ankle sprain. When should you stop wearing an ankle brace?
8 Answers
OrthopaedicSurgeonOrthopedist
I'd consult with your therapist. You may want to start conservatively and wean off it when walking on smooth and flat surfaces but continue to wear the brace if you will be walking on more uneven terrain until you're fully healed.
WHEN THE INFLAMATION AND TENDERNESS ARE NO MORE.
I would continue to wear the ankles brace until the swelling and discomfort subside. If selling and discomfort persists longer than a month, then I would recommend following up with your local podiatrist.
Was the ankle brace your decision or a doctor's? When the swelling is down and you can bear weight and have pain free full range of motion, you can stop. If you chronically injure your ankle, you should wear it whenever you engage in an activity such as running or sports. Get Outlook for iOS<https://aka.ms/o0ukef>
It takes approximately 6 - 8 weeks for the sprained ligaments to heal properly as long as there has been no further damage. If there is no pain or swelling of the injured ankle when walking and/or moving the ankle through its range of motion then the brace can be removed.
Soft tissue injuries can take three months or longer to heal completely, depending on the severity. I would suggest continuing to wear an ankle brace until there is no more pain, swelling, until you can walk safely without feeling off-balance or limping, and after three months time, check with your doctor to make sure everything looks healed. If you continue to do things against your doctors advice even a brace, the healing can obviously take a lot longer. Good luck, Dr. M
Are you still having pain or symptoms? Did you have a follow up with your physician to re-evaluate the sprain?
I recommend you make an appointment with a foot and ankle specialist (podiatrist) for diagnosis and treatment options. The time frame for wearing the brace will vary.
