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

Abstract

Ankle ligament injuries as a result of a sprain are one of the most common injuries in athletes. Taping and bracing are both often used in the treatment and prevention of recurrent ankle sprains. These external ankle supports have been shown to be effective in the prevention of (recurrence) of ankle sprains. Both taping and bracing have a preventive effect on ankle sprains during sports and while minimally affecting sport-specific performance. Although braces seem to be more valuable as an external ankle support in the prevention of recurrent ankle sprains, no definite conclusions can be made based on the available literature. Many studies have been performed on how these supports prevent ankle sprains, but the real working mechanism is still indistinct. The choice on whether to use tape or brace should therefore depend on the personal preference of athletes. Ankle ligament injuries as a result of a sprain are one of the most common injuries in athletes. Taping and bracing are both often used in the treatment and prevention of recurrent ankle sprains. These external ankle supports have been shown to be effective in the prevention of (recurrence) of ankle sprains. Both taping and bracing have a preventive effect on ankle sprains during sports and while minimally affecting sport-specific performance. Although braces seem to be more valuable as an external ankle support in the prevention of recurrent ankle sprains, no definite conclusions can be made based on the available literature. Many studies have been performed on how these supports prevent ankle sprains, but the real working mechanism is still indistinct. The choice on whether to use tape or brace should therefore depend on the personal preference of athletes.