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The effect of ankle bracing on athletic performance
1Department of Health Science, Faculty of Human Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Sports Medicine (Auckland, N.Z.)
|May 1, 1999
Summary
Ankle braces may hinder athletic performance by limiting range of motion. Research shows mixed results on their impact on vertical jump, speed, and agility, necessitating further investigation into prolonged use effects.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Biomechanics
- Exercise Physiology
Background:
- Ankle braces are commonly used in sports to prevent ankle sprains.
- Potential adverse effects include reduced functional range of motion and impaired athletic performance.
- Widespread adoption of prophylactic ankle bracing depends on its impact on performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing literature on the effects of ankle bracing on athletic performance.
- To evaluate the impact of ankle braces on vertical jump height, running speed, agility, and broad jump performance.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies investigating ankle bracing and athletic performance metrics.
- Analysis of findings regarding vertical jump, running speed, agility, and broad jump performance.
Main Results:
- Some studies indicate negative effects of ankle braces on vertical jump height, while others show no significant impact.
- Mixed findings exist for running speed and broad jump performance, with some studies reporting negative effects from lace-on braces.
- Agility was negatively affected in one study, but not significantly impacted in others.
Conclusions:
- The effect of ankle bracing on athletic performance is inconsistent across studies.
- Further research is required to understand the long-term effects of ankle bracing on ankle musculature, ligament function, and overall performance.