If you’re looking for the best ankle braces for arthritis, let me help you out.
Arthritis makes moving and walking painful, but as you’ll find out, an ankle brace can improve your symptoms.
So, keep reading to discover our top 5 braces and ankle compression sleeves for arthritis.
Start with a quick glance at our three favorites, then read on for the complete reviews.
RELATED: 5 Best Braces for Weak Ankles
Best Ankle Braces for Arthritis Top Picks at a Glance
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- Winner: Med Spec ASO Ankle Stabilizer
- Best for Maximum Protection: Mcdavid Ankle Support Brace
- Best for Comfort: Incrediwear Ankle Sleeve
Check the table below for a side-by-side comparison of our favorites!
5 Best Ankle Braces for Arthritis (Review)
Arthritis causes pain and inflammation in your joints, making it painful to perform your daily activities. And it’s a very common condition.
According to CDC statists, “23% of all adults, or more than 54 million people, have arthritis.” And while there’s no cure, there are plenty of treatment options to slow down its progress.
Ankle braces are one of the easiest nonsurgical treatments to reduce pain, stiffness, and joint inflammation.
So, let’s see our top pick of the most effective braces for arthritis.
#1 Winner: Med Spec ASO Ankle Stabilizer
Med Spec is the best choice when you’re looking for a comfortable brace to reduce pain and improve your foot’s stability.
Physical Attributes
- Ballistic nylon boot
- Stabilizing straps
- Bilateral design with invisible seams
Quantitative Measurements
- Available in eight sizes from small to 3X-large
- Suitable for medial/lateral instability, sprains, subtalar joint instability
Benefits
Med Spec’s foot stabilizer boasts a lightweight design with figure-eight stabilizing straps for maximum comfort and stability.
As such, it provides the crucial compression level for reducing pain and inflammation caused by rheumatoid arthritis or muscle strains. And it doesn’t compromise blood circulation.
Best of all, this best ankle brace for arthritis has a low profile to ensure it fits into any type of shoe with no problems.
Drawbacks
Unfortunately, Med Spec’s ASO isn’t the easiest to apply because of the straps and laces. Some customers also say the sizing chart is off.
How Does it Compare to Others and Why?
- Enhanced ankle joint support thanks to stabilizing straps, laces, and an elastic cuff closure
- CoolFlex padding and invisible seam for extra comfort
- Bilateral design
- Made in the USA
How the Product Evolved
- Available in a hinged model for more flexibility and enhanced comfort
Expert Tip
- Measure your ankle circumference for a correct fit.
- Hand or machine washable
- Stabilizing Straps form complete figure-eight to protect and support ankle.Each ankle brace is sold separately; US manufacturing with higher quality control standards
- Ballistic nylon boot provides superior durability and strength
- Machine wash gentle cycle, no bleach. Air dry. Elastic cuff closure enhances support and keeps laces and stabilizing straps secure
- Bilateral design so each size will fit left or right foot; Low profile to fit in any type of shoe
- Each ankle brace is sold separately; US manufacturing with higher quality control standards
- Machine wash gentle cycle, no bleach. Air dry.
#2 Best for Maximum Protection: Mcdavid Ankle Support Brace
If you’re looking for the best braces for weak ankles and arthritis, you won’t be disappointed by Mcdavid and their premium quality brace.
Physical Attributes
- Made from polyester
- A ventilated tongue
- Figure-6 strapping pattern
- Adjustable
Quantitative Measurements
- Available in five sizes from small to X-large
- Suitable for moderate to major instabilities
Benefits
Mcdavid’s compression brace is the best for pain relief, inflammation, and ankle swelling due to its supportive design with a 6-figure strap pattern. It has level 3 maximum protection.
It’s also very light in weight and can be adjusted without unlacing your shoe, which is great for people with arthritis.
Moreover, it’s made of quality material and is efficient in preventing an acute ankle injury.
Drawbacks
- Too tight for some users
- Not available in larger than X-large size
How Does It Compare to Others and Why
- Easy to adjust without unlacing
- Reinforced closures for a snug fit and a maximum level of compression
- According to studies, athletes who didn’t wear McDavid brace had “a rate of injury nearly three times higher than those who wore the brace.”
How the Product Evolved
- Upgraded material from neoprene to polyester
- Level 3 protection
Expert Tips
- The laces are replaceable, so don’t worry if they wear down.
- PREVENTS and/or helps RECOVER from common ankle sprains
- SUPPORTIVE Design simulates athletic tape with figure-6 strapping pattern - Fits left or right
- COMPRESSION and COMFORT top strap for custom fit
- ADJUSTABLE without unlacing or removing shoe
- BREATHABLE ventilated tongue
- COMFORTABLE padded lining reinforces closures
- Athletes participating in an independent study at a major research university had 3x fewer injuries when wearing the Mcdavid 195 ankle brace
- This ankle brace is intended to fit “snug” for the best support. If your measurements are close to the maximum size range, we recommend sizing up for comfort.
#3 Best for Comfort: Incrediwear Ankle Sleeve
Incrediwear’s product is the ideal choice for dealing with arthritic pain and speeding the healing process when dealing with acute injuries.
Physical Attributes
- Anti-inflammatory, form-fitting fabric
- Embedded semiconductor elements
- Breathable
Quantitative Measurements
- Available in three sizes – small, medium, and large
- Suitable also for ligament injuries, joint pain, tendonitis, and Plantar Fasciitis
Benefits
Incrediwear’s soft brace is great for arthritis because it increases blood flow to the injured area to reduce foot pains and swelling. It also speeds up the healing process in acute injuries.
The sleeve is made from breathable material with moisture-wicking abilities to keep your foot sweat-free. It’s also soft, comfortable, doesn’t irritate the skin, and is easy to put on/off.
Drawbacks
- Not the cheapest option
- Best for mild to moderate pain and injuries
How Does it Compare to Others and Why
- You can wear the Incrediwear compression sleeve 24/7 without any side effects.
- Aids in post-surgery recovery and enhances the body’s natural healing.
- Decreases the risk of future injuries in active people.
How the Product Evolved
- Available in a sock model for improving blood circulation and reducing muscle fatigue.
Expert Tip
- Incrediwear’s knee braces are also very effective for dealing with arthritis pain.
- You can wash the sleeve with warm or cold water.
- ANTI INFLAMMATORY: Unlike an ankle compression sleeve, the Incrediwear ankle brace for women and men is non-invasive, helps increase blood circulation, and helps reduce inflammation for ankle pain relief from acute or chronic injuries. The ankle support brace can be worn day and night for 24/7 recovery.
- MATERIAL: Incrediwear’s ankle support sleeve is embedded with semiconductors that are stimulated by body heat to help improve poor circulation & increase oxygen to optimize the natural healing process. Designed for rest, recovery, and activity, our ankle brace for men and women is made with breathable, moisture-wicking, & form-fitting fabric.
- RELIEF: Our ankle brace support sleeve acts as an anti-inflammatory and can help alleviate symptoms and pain for a number of conditions. Benefits may include plantar fasciitis relief, tendonitis relief, arthritis pain relief, sprained ankle treatment, and ligament support.
- RECOVERY: Find joint and muscle pain relief and faster recovery after intense workouts or injuries with Incrediwear's full line of circulation sleeves, scientifically proven to increase blood flow and optimize the body's healing process.
- PERFORMANCE: Ideal for high performance training, sports & exercise, Incrediwear's body sleeves are worn by competitive and recreational athletes during and after activity to optimize performance and help prevent potential injury.
#4 Best for the Elderly: TechWare Pro Ankle Brace Compression Sleeve
For elderly people that can’t handle laces and straps, TechWare has an excellent compression sleeve for ankle pain.
Physical Attributes
- Made from lightweight nylon and spandex with arch support
- Breathable
- Moisture-wicking fabric
- Available in eight colors
Quantitative Measurements
- Available in three sizes – S/M, L/XL, and XX-Large
- Suitable for heel pain, joint pain, plantar fasciitis, and Achilles tendonitis
Benefits
- Maximum compression to minimize heel pain without loss of mobility during exercises
- Improves blood circulation and reduces inflammation
- Easy to put on/off
- Slim design that fits most shoes and works well with ankle support shoes for the elderly
Drawbacks
- Size runs smaller than the provided sizing chart
- Not the best choice for major ankle instability
How Does it Compare to Others and Why
- Made from breathable material for maximum air circulation and comfort
- Lightweight design
How the Product Evolved
- Available as a therapy-grade compression sock with a reinforced heel.
Expert Tip
- Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions to select the right brace size.
- STRONG COMPRESSION IN A THIN SLEEVE: Pain Relief From Arthritis, Sprains, Muscle Fatigue, Stress Fractures in a Slim, Breathable, Moisture Wicking Soft Fabric COMPRESSION SOCKS 20 - 30mmHG. For People That Want STRONG COMPRESSION.
- PREMIUM QUALITY AND STRONG COMPRESSION: Our Unique Manufacturing Process Provides Tight Fit Comfort Around Tendons and Muscles to Improve Blood Circulation and Reduce Inflammation. Helps With Edema Treatment, Bunion And Bursitis While Providing Support and Stability.
- NO SLIP FIT FOR ANY ACTIVITY: Stay Comfortable in the Game All Day and Night. Baseball, Crossfit, Running, Basketball, Soccer, Walking, Hiking, Tennis, Volleyball, Golf, Kickboxing, Gymnastics, Exercise Workout, Martial Arts, Dance, Cycling or Any Athletic Fitness Sport.
- FAST RELIEF FROM PLANTAR FASCIITIS: Helps With Standing And Walking Pain. Our Therapy Socks Helps The Splint Area To Relieve Heel And Arch Pain. Compressing The Ligament Will Reduce Inflammation Expediting The Healing Process.
- YOUR FEET DESERVE TO BE HAPPY: No Neoprene But rather 80% Nylon and 20% Spandex For Superior Support. 3 Sizes SMALL / MEDIUM, LARGE / X-LARGE and XX-LARGE Unisex Mens And Ladies. See SIZE CHART and Take ALL THREE MEASUREMENTS to Determine Best SIZE. 1 Pair
#5 Best Budged-Friendly: IRUFA Adjustable Ankle Wrap
IRUFA is an excellent choice for reducing arthritic pain and improving foot stability for people on a tight budget,
Physical Attributes
- Made from hypo-allergenic spacer fabric
- Air cushion effect
- Breathable
- Open-heel design
Quantitative Measurements
- Available in three sizes – S/M, Large, and X-Large
- Best for acute and chronic injuries, plantar fasciitis, sprained ankle, strains, torn tendons
Benefits
- Medical grade compression for maximum pain relief and injury prevention
- Made from lightweight, breathable material with an open-heel design for adequate air circulation
- A great choice for athletes and active people that need additional foot stability
- Slim design that fits into most shoes
Drawbacks
- Some customers note that the strap is too short to be useful.
- Sizing chart might be off
How Does It Compare to Others and Why
- Innovative design with an air cushion effect, 3D breathability, and medical-grade compression
- Can be worn for a prolonged period of time
How the Product Evolved
- Available in two models with different lengths
Expert Tip
- The wrap isn’t waterproof, but it’s machine-washable.
- Made by 3D breathable,Air cushion, Neoprene Free, No Smell, Latex Free, Hypo-allergenic. soft touch, Patented spacer fabric. Inside fabric is quick dry moisture wicking fabric , Light weight, machine washable,24 hours comfort use.
- Fits comfortably under running socks. Wear it with your favorite running shoes without affecting the fit of the sneakers. Alleviates conditions of Achilles Tendinitis and provides lift to heel, helping to prevent sudden stretch or strain to injured tendon. Ideal for acute and chronic ankle injury, Plantar Fasciitis, Pain Relief for Sprains, Strains, Arthritis and Torn Tendons.
- Comfortable design: Spacer fabric material is air cushion, light weight, latex free,3D breathable in any direction and much breathable than neoprene or PU foam. latex free is to reduce the allergy in use. You can comfort use for all day and night time.
- S/M Size : Suitable for US men shoes #3.5~ # 6.5, US Women Shoes #4 ~ # 8, L Size: Suitable for US men shoes #7 ~ #10, US Women Shoes #8.5 ~ #11. XL size fit US Men shoes up to 10,5 ~14 inches, women shoe fit 11.5 to 15 inches. (Please check the drawing).
- Suitable for all kinds of sports to protect ankle including tennis ,badminton, volleyball, basketball, baseball, ice hockey, skating, cricket, cycling, yoga, gymnastics and martial art. Fits both ankle. Adjust the compression at any time . Machine washable, Light weight.
How to Choose the Best Ankle Braces for Arthritis
Let’s talk about what features you should consider when choosing the best ankle braces for arthritis.
Material
You want a brace made from breathable and moisture-wicking material to prevent overheating and sweating. If you have allergies, ensure that the fabric is latex-free.
Type of Brace
Foot braces come in many forms with different levels of protection. The most common types of ankle brace are rigid ankle braces, hybrid braces, soft braces, and custom ones.
For arthritis, you need a supportive ankle brace to take some of the weight of the joints and reduce the inflammation. A compression support sleeve also works.
Snug Fit
Braces should be snug but not too tight to ensure proper blood circulation. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to measure and how to put on the ankle brace.
FAQs
Will an Ankle Brace Help Arthritis?
Experts say that braces effectively help alleviate pain and improve the quality of life in arthritic patients. So, is it good to wear an ankle brace when you have foot arthritis? Yes, braces can help arthritis by reducing swelling and taking some of your weight off the affected joints.
Will Compression Socks Help Ankle Pain?
Yes, compression socks increase blood flow to the affected area, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pain.
Is it Bad to Wear a Brace All the Time?
You shouldn’t overuse ankle braces because it can make your condition worse. Long-term use can lead to instability and weakness in the foot.
Conclusion
Braces, wraps, and compression sleeves are great for managing arthritic pain and getting you back on your feet. They aren’t a cure, but they can improve your quality of life.
Just keep in mind that braces are most effective when used in combination with other treatments, such as physical therapy.
Final Recommendation
- Stabilizing Straps form complete figure-eight to protect and support ankle.Each ankle brace is sold separately; US manufacturing with higher quality control standards
- Ballistic nylon boot provides superior durability and strength
- Machine wash gentle cycle, no bleach. Air dry. Elastic cuff closure enhances support and keeps laces and stabilizing straps secure
- Bilateral design so each size will fit left or right foot; Low profile to fit in any type of shoe
- Each ankle brace is sold separately; US manufacturing with higher quality control standards
- Machine wash gentle cycle, no bleach. Air dry.
References
- “Arthritis.” 2021. 2021. https://www.cdc.gov/chronicdisease/resources/publications/factsheets/arthritis.htm.
- John, Shine, and Frank Bongiovanni. 2009. “Brace Management for Ankle Arthritis.” Clinics in Podiatric Medicine and Surgery 26 (2): 193–97. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cpm.2008.12.004.
- McDavid. 2011. “Study Proves McDavid Ankle Braces Significantly Prevent Injuries.” Prnewswire.com. July 21, 2011. https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/study-proves-mcdavid-ankle-braces-significantly-prevent-injuries-125962283.html.
What do you think about these 5 best ankle braces for arthritis? Have you ever used one to deal with pain and stiffness? Share your experience in the comments.
