ANKLE SPRAIN PROPHYLAXIS - AN ANALYSIS OF THE STABILIZING EFFECTS OF BRACES AND TAPE

Five cadaveric ankles were used to determine the effects of prophylact ic bracing and tape on resisting an inversion moment applied to the an kle. The ankles were tested in neutral flexion and 30 degrees of plant ar flexion and with both low- and high-top shoes. Eight different stra p-on braces were studied. High-top sneakers significantly increased th e passive resistance to inversion afforded by all braces and tape. Man y of the braces functioned to resist inversion at a level that was com parable with or exceeded the capability of freshly applied tape. This finding was independent of the type of footwear. Braces that were not as effective as freshly applied tape nevertheless retained the advanta ge over tape in that they could be easily readjusted and their effecti veness restored, whereas the quality of the support provided with tape deteriorated with usage.