Why External Support Helps
After a sprain, the proprioceptive feedback from the ankle is impaired for weeks to months. Bracing or taping restores some of that feedback, limits extreme motion, and substantially reduces the risk of recurrent sprain - particularly in court and field sports.
Options
- Athletic taping for short-term, event-day support
- Semi-rigid stirrup braces (Aircast-style) for moderate support and post-sprain return to play
- Lace-up ankle braces for chronic instability and high-risk sports
- Functional braces for selected post-operative protocols
Dr. O’Carroll prescribes the right level of support for the activity and the stage of healing - and pairs it with a structured proprioceptive retraining program.