University of Oregon

Department of Human Physiology Graduate Studies in Athletic Training and Sports Medicine

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A Comparison of Ankle Support Methods

Ellie Rozumalski MS ATC

In the article titled “Influence of Ankle Support on Joint Range of Motion Before and After Exercise: A Meta-Analysis” by Cordova et al (2000), inversion, eversion, dorsiflexion, and plantarflexion ROM measurements were compared among types of ankle support (adhesive tape, lace-up brace, and semi-rigid brace) and time (before and after exercises). The authors reported that semi-rigid ankle braces provided the most protection against inversion and eversion. Adhesive tape and lace-up braces provided a comparable amount of plantarflexion restriction while tape provided more dorsiflexion restriction than lace-up braces. Other meta-analyses investigating the effect of ankle taping and bracing on athletic performance and the cost effectiveness of ankle taping and bracing were also reviewed. It is determined that semi-rigid ankle braces are the best option for preventing injury while providing optimal athletic performance and lower cost.