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Stars Prove Why You Need Tennis Ankle Support

tennis ankle support can prevent sprains

Sports with lots of lateral movements are hard on your ankles, which is why so many of our patients need tennis ankle support. Think you’re immune to overuse injuries or sprains from the sport? Check out what happened to some of our greatest tennis stars of all time.

 

The Case for Tennis Ankle Support: Ms. Serena Williams

Back in 2013, American tennis star Serena Williams defeated Edina Gallovits-Hall in the Australian Open. But she suffered an ankle injury in the process.  At the time, she said, “Oh, I’ll be out there. I mean, unless something fatal happens to me, there’s no way I’m not going to be competing. I’m alive. My heart’s beating. I’ll be fine.” And she was, sort of, beating Gallovits-Hall and clinching a victory 6-0.

Still, in the years since then, Williams has struggled with injuries. In fact, in 2020, she withdrew from Wimbledon due to lingering Achilles tendon concerns. In other words, that ankle strain gave her long-term weakness. It upped her chance for recurring injuries. And it made the case for wearing a tennis ankle support during match play.

Joining the Club: Naomi Osaka

Recently, young tennis star Naomi Osaka pulled out of Wimbledon due to an Achilles tendon concern. Like Williams, Osaka could have taken the pressure off her tendon with some added tennis ankle support. And, while our patients aren’t usually playing at this intense level of competition, even regular rec play can lead to injuries. So we encourage all our tennis players to ask us about supportive braces. (Or strength-building exercises you can try with our in-house athletic trainer.)

Preventing Injury with Tennis Ankle Support

Ankle injuries can cause athletes to miss important games or matches, like Serena Williams, depending on the severity. Ankle sprains like Williams should always be treated, regardless of how minor it may seem. If you suffer from an ankle sprain, we recommend seeking the help of our team of Spring, TX podiatrists at Louetta Foot and Ankle Specialists , to ensure that your injury is evaluated properly and the appropriate treatment options are given.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Happen?

This type of injury takes place when the ligaments are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured; however, even the simple act of walking may cause a sprain. If footing is lost or you are walking on uneven terrain, ankle damage may occur.

Ankle Sprain Symptoms

  • Mild to moderate bruising
  • Limited mobility
  • Swelling
  • Discoloration of the skin, depending on severity

Is there a Way to Care for my Ankle at Home?

Self-care for ankle sprains includes propping the ankle up and keeping it elevated, applying ice packs as needed, and remaining off your feet. Some may also find that wrapping the ankle with an ACE bandage and taking over-the-counter pain relievers are helpful. One of the most important things is to avoid further stress to the affected area.

Preventing a Sprain

  • Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
  • Stretching before exercises and sports
  • Knowing your limits can aid in prevention
  • Ask us about tennis ankle support braces, or supportive sport-specific shoes

For more information at how to treat a sprained ankle, follow the link below.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office in Spring, TX and Tomball, TX.  We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot ankle injuries.

Read the full article about Ankle Sprains.

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