At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.
How do I Choose the Best Foot Brace?
A foot brace is required by those who have suffered a serious sprain or fracture in the foot or ankle area. In order to choose the best foot brace, it is important to figure out if the brace is required in the first place. Patients should generally look for solutions that are within their budget and also provide comfort. Shoe inserts provide an alternative solution; patients are advised, however, to be wary when purchasing braces from foot-ankle orthosis manufacturers.
A foot brace is used to ensure that the joints and bones in that area are kept rigid. A brace also offers support for weak limbs that cannot support a person’s weight. In general, a foot brace will be prescribed to patients who have suffered a sprain or a fracture.
There is no guarantee that a foot brace will provide the appropriate solution, however. This is why it is important to consult a physician to find out if the foot will benefit from a brace. There are many instances when patients have elected to wear a brace only to discover it was of no use.
As a brace is likely to be worn on the foot for a long period of time once it is prescribed, comfort is of paramount importance. If a foot brace is too loose, it will not immobilize the foot as it is supposed to. Yet if it is too tight, the patient will be forced to endure pain for a long period of time.
It is important to spend time searching for a foot brace that is not only comfortable, but also fits in with a budget. There are a multitude of braces available such as silicon insoles. These are often prescribed to patients with conditions such as diabetic foot, metatarsalgia, and hyperkeratosis.
Another option is to choose shoe inserts. These are designed to give support and stability. Those suffering from conditions such as heel strikes generally benefit from shoe inserts. They are also commonly prescribed for patients with swollen metatarsals. Shoe inserts are easily slipped on and off for flexibility, convenience, and comfort.
Regardless of what foot brace is required, it is necessary to purchase it only from a well known ankle-foot orthosis manufacturing company. There are a number of companies online that provide this service but it is important to read customer reviews. These will give a good idea of the company’s reputation. A physician’s duty includes responsibility for directing patients to reputable vendors.
AS FEATURED ON:
AS FEATURED ON:
-
![A foot brace is designed to help keep the joints and bones rigid.]()
By: MASTA foot brace is designed to help keep the joints and bones rigid. -
![A foot brace will be necessary for a serious sprain or fracture of the ankle or foot.]()
By: Kamil ÄwiklewskiA foot brace will be necessary for a serious sprain or fracture of the ankle or foot. -
![Foot braces made of soft and flexible materials allow partial movement of the foot.]()
By: Gennadiy PoznyakovFoot braces made of soft and flexible materials allow partial movement of the foot.
Discussion Comments
Has anyone here used a mid-foot brace before?
Apparently it's used to support the arch and some versions help with bunions. Are they effective?
I'm wearing a walker brace right now. I hurt my foot playing soccer. My doctor said that I have to wear it for a while.
There was some swelling but it's gone done now. It's great that I can walk around in it. Although I do put my foot up once I get home. Standing and walking too much seems to make it swell a little bit. I'm just happy that I didn't need a cast.
I have weak ankles and I made the mistake of joining up to a dance class that requires a lot of jumping. Needless to say, I managed to sprain both of my ankles after just the first session.
I was in so much pain and walking and moving seemed to make it worse. I went to a pharmacy right away and purchased foot and ankle braces. These are sort of like socks except with the toes open. They are made of elastic material but apply just the right amount of pressure to keep the ankle immobile and encourage healing.
I wore the braces close to a week. I even went to work with them on. I just wore them inside my shoe and no one noticed. I think my ankles would have taken much longer to heal without them.
Post your comments