Ankle injuries can be debilitating, impacting your ability to walk, run, and perform daily activities. Whether it’s a sudden acute injury, a chronic condition like osteoarthritis, or the often challenging high (syndesmotic) ankle injury, finding effective treatment and support is crucial for a swift recovery. This is where Ultra AnkleⓇ steps in with the Ultra CTSⓇ Ankle Brace, a groundbreaking solution designed to provide comprehensive ankle injury management.

Ultra Ankle, a leader in innovative bracing technology, has engineered the Ultra CTS (Custom Treatment System) to address the specific needs of individuals suffering from various ankle conditions. Unlike traditional ankle braces, the Ultra CTS offers customizable support and stabilization, helping users reduce weight-bearing pain and regain their mobility quickly and safely. Moreover, the Ultra CTS is FDA registered as a Class 1 medical device, ensuring it meets stringent safety and efficacy standards. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the unique features and benefits of the Ultra CTS Ankle Brace, explaining why it’s an essential tool for anyone dealing with ankle injuries.

Understanding the Ultra CTS Ankle Brace

The Ultra CTS Ankle Brace is a one-of-a-kind medical device designed specifically to treat a variety of ankle conditions. Its innovative design and functionality make it an ideal choice for those suffering from:

  1. Acute Ankle Injuries
  2. High (Syndesmotic) Ankle Injuries
  3. Osteoarthritis

What sets the Ultra CTS apart is its ability to adjust the level of ankle support and unloading, which helps reduce weight-bearing pain and enables a faster return to activity. This flexibility makes it a versatile tool for managing traumatic ankle conditions in one comprehensive brace.

The Ultra CTS offers two key features crucial for treating acute ankle injuries, high ankle injuries, and ankle osteoarthritis:

  1. Reducing Weight-Bearing Pain
  2. Maximum Lower Leg and Ankle Stabilization and Support

In the following sections, we will explore how the Ultra CTS achieves these benefits, thanks to its advanced design elements and materials.

Ultra CTS ankle brace weight bearing pain

Key Features of the Ultra CTS Ankle Brace

Reducing Weight-Bearing Pain

One of the standout features of the Ultra CTS Ankle Brace is its ability to unload the ankle, reducing weight-bearing pain. Unlike most other ankle braces, which are not designed to structurally unload the ankle, the Ultra CTS incorporates a unique semi-rigid foot section and an upper cuff section which forms a custom fit to the lower leg. This structurally sound design absorbs impact and energy from activities like standing, walking, or running, which would normally be transferred to the ankle, causing joint irritation and pain. This process minimizes trauma and pain in the ankle, leading to a quicker return to activity or competition. By reducing the impact on the ankle, the Ultra CTS not only alleviates pain but also promotes faster and more efficient recovery.

Stabilizing the Ankle and Lower Leg

The Ultra CTS Ankle Brace also excels in providing maximum stabilization for the ankle and lower leg. It features a dual hinged-cuff design that is taller than most other braces, effectively compressing and stabilizing the tibia and fibula. This design is particularly beneficial for managing high ankle injuries.

The upper cuff section of the brace is made from Performathane®, a flexible soft-shell material that securely encircles the lower leg and ankle. Performathane® uses body heat to form a custom fit to the wearer’s anatomy, resulting in enhanced comfort and support. This material’s adaptability ensures that the brace conforms perfectly to each individual’s lower leg and ankle, providing tailored stabilization.

While most ankle braces primarily restrict ankle turning or inversion (which causes low ankle injuries), the Ultra CTS goes a step further by also limiting excessive ankle turning (inversion) and twisting (rotation). Ankle rotation causes high ankle injuries, which are more severe than low ankle injuries and take longer to heal. This comprehensive restriction helps prevent both low and high ankle injuries, offering superior protection and support.

Performathane® Material for a Custom Fit

The Ultra CTS utilizes Performathane®, a proprietary flexible soft-shell material that uses body heat to mold to the wearer’s foot and ankle. This ensures a custom fit, enhancing both comfort and support. Performathane® forms a secure, personalized fit around the lower leg and ankle, offering tailored stabilization that adapts to the unique shape of each user’s anatomy.

Adaptability and Transition

One of the most impressive aspects of the Ultra CTS Ankle Brace is its adaptability, which allows users to transition from maximum support to enhanced mobility as their condition improves. This feature ensures that the Ultra CTS can be used throughout different stages of recovery, offering both robust support and mobility when needed.

Detachable PerformaFit® Upper Cuff Section

The detachable PerformaFit® upper cuff section is a standout feature of the Ultra CTS, enhancing its versatility. This cuff, made from the proprietary Performathane® material, provides maximum stabilization and a custom fit during the early stages of recovery. Once the wearer no longer requires such extensive support, the upper cuff can be easily removed, transforming the brace to allow greater ankle movement while still offering necessary support.

This adaptability is particularly beneficial for athletes and active individuals who need to maintain a balance between support and mobility. By providing the option to adjust the level of support, the Ultra CTS ensures that users can continue their recovery without the need to switch to a different brace.

Ultra CTS Ankle Brace for compression and weight bearing pain

Effectiveness and Expert Support

The Ultra CTS Ankle Brace stands out not only for its innovative design but also for its proven effectiveness in treating ankle trauma and facilitating a swift return to an active lifestyle. Its comprehensive features make it an invaluable tool for managing various ankle conditions, from acute injuries to chronic issues like osteoarthritis.

Why the Ultra CTS is Unique and Effective

The Ultra CTS Ankle Brace is uniquely effective due to its combination of customizable support, advanced materials, and thoughtful design elements.

Additionally, the Ultra CTS is FDA registered as a Class 1 medical device, providing users with confidence in its safety and efficacy. This registration underscores Ultra Ankle’s commitment to delivering high-quality, reliable medical devices that meet rigorous standards.

Contact Information for Expert Support

At Ultra Ankle, we understand that every ankle injury is unique, and having access to expert advice can significantly enhance the recovery process. Our team of Certified Athletic Trainers is available to answer any questions you may have about the Ultra CTS Ankle Brace. These professionals are experts in ankle injuries and bracing, and they are dedicated to helping you find the best solutions for your specific needs.

If you have any questions or need personalized guidance, please do not hesitate to reach out to our Certified Athletic Trainers. They can provide detailed information on how to use the Ultra CTS, advice on transitioning between support levels, and tips for maximizing your recovery.

Ankle osteoarthritis (OA) is a debilitating condition that can significantly impact one’s quality of life by limiting mobility and causing chronic pain. This blog post aims to educate you about ankle OA, its causes, symptoms, and available treatment options, with a focus on how the Ultra Ankle® Ultra CTS® ankle brace can provide relief.

What is Ankle Osteoarthritis and What Causes It?

Ankle osteoarthritis is a form of degenerative joint disease where the articular cartilage in the ankle wears away, leading to bone-on-bone irritation. This condition can arise from various causes (Arthritis Foundation):

  • Previous Injuries: Trauma such as ankle sprains or fractures often leads to OA as the joint deteriorates over time.
  • Wear and Tear: Natural aging and repetitive use can erode the cartilage, making the condition more prevalent in older adults.
  • Excess Weight: There is an additional four pounds of pressure on the ankle joint for each extra pound of body weight.
  • Underlying Conditions: Diseases like rheumatoid arthritis can also contribute to the development of OA.

Arthritis of ankle . X-ray of foot . Lateral view . Invert color

Symptoms of Ankle Osteoarthritis

Individuals with ankle OA may experience variations of the condition. (Penn Medicine).

  • Inflammation and swelling around the ankle joint.
  • Pain and stiffness in the ankle during activity or motion.
  • Swelling in the joint accompanied by warmth and redness.
  • Discomfort when standing, walking, or bearing weight.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Ankle Osteoarthritis

Effective management of ankle OA involves several treatment modalities:

  • Activity Modification: Altering daily activities to lessen ankle joint pain and swelling.
  • Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs can help reduce joint swelling and alleviate pain (NYU Langone Health).
  • Physical Therapy: Engaging in physical therapy can assist in reducing inflammation and restoring range of motion (Total Performance Physical Therapy).
  • Ankle Braces: Specialized ankle braces are recommended to reduce weight-bearing pain and prevent excessive movement that can exacerbate joint deterioration (National Library of Medicine).

The Ultra CTS® Ankle Brace: A Solution for OA Pain

The Ultra Ankle Ultra CTS ankle brace is uniquely designed to aid individuals suffering from ankle osteoarthritis. It offers a multi-faceted approach to managing OA pain:

  • Impact Absorption: The Ultra CTS ankle brace reduces bone-on-bone irritation by absorbing a portion of the impact generated from standing or walking. This absorbed impact is then redirected to the lower leg, effectively unloading the ankle joint and minimizing joint irritation and pain.
  • Ankle Stabilization: By providing firm support to the lower leg and ankle, the Ultra CTS helps prevent excessive movement that can lead to further joint damage. This stability is crucial in managing OA pain and preventing additional injuries.

Encouraging Mobility: Unlike rigid braces, the Ultra CTS features a hinge that allows for full up-and-down ankle motion, promoting muscle strength and joint flexibility. Maintaining mobility is essential in preventing the ankle from becoming stiff and weak (Athlete Restoration Co.).

ultra-cts-ankle-brace-osteorthritis

The Ultra CTS as an Effective Alternative to Ankle Fusion

Ankle fusion is a surgical procedure often recommended for severe cases of ankle osteoarthritis. While it can provide significant pain relief, it permanently reduces ankle movement, which can lead to a loss of mobility and affect the patient’s overall quality of life. The Ultra CTS ankle brace offers a non-surgical alternative with several advantages:

  • Preserves Mobility: Unlike ankle fusion, the Ultra CTS maintains full ankle range of motion, allowing for natural movement and reducing the risk of muscle atrophy and joint stiffness (Symmetry Physical Therapy).
  • Reduces Pain and Irritation: By unloading the ankle joint, the brace decreases bone-on-bone pain and minimizes joint irritation, offering significant pain relief without the need for invasive surgery.
  • Non-Invasive Solution: The Ultra CTS provides a non-surgical option that avoids the risks and recovery time associated with ankle fusion surgery. This makes it a suitable choice for those seeking to manage their OA symptoms conservatively.

Conclusion

Ankle osteoarthritis can be a challenging condition to manage, but with the right treatment approach, including the use of the Ultra Ankle® Ultra CTS ankle brace, individuals can may find relief from pain and improve their quality of life. The Ultra CTS brace not only reduces bone-on-bone irritation but also stabilizes the ankle and maintains natural movement, making it a comprehensive solution for those suffering from ankle OA. Additionally, it may serves as an effective alternative to ankle fusion, preserving mobility and providing pain relief without invasive surgery.

If you have any questions about ankle braces for your ankle osteoarthritis, please send a message to one of our certified athletic trainers.

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Do ankle braces weaken ankles

As a seasoned athletic trainer with over three decades of experience and 15+ patents in ankle brace design, I frequently get asked – “Do ankle braces weaken the ankle?” Especially in sports like volleyball, basketball, and football, where ankle injuries are prevalent, players wear ankle braces during games and practices to prevent sprains or reduce severity if an injury occurs. This common practice has led parents, coaches, and players to question the potential negative impact on ankle strength.

Understanding The Ways to Weaken A Joint

There are only two ways to weaken a joint and its supporting muscles:

  1. Non-usage of the joint: Typically observed post-surgery, when muscles atrophy due to non-use.
  2. Restricting joint range of motion: If a joint is restricted or bound up for an extended period of time, preventing full range of motion, muscle weakening may occur.

Since athletes frequently use and strengthen their joints through drills and conditioning exercises, the primary concern is the potential weakening of the ankle by restricting its normal range of motion.

Do Any Ankle Braces Restrict Joint Range of Motion?

Unfortunately, yes. The lace-up (or corset style) brace restricts much of the ankle joint range of motion, including the essential up and down ankle motion needed for running and jumping. This restriction is due to the binding of laces and/or tight wraparound Velcro straps. A recent university study found that lace-ups significantly decreased ankle joint range of motion and isokinetic measures of muscle torque, total work, and power. In simpler terms, the lace-up brace adversely affects ankle range of motion and strength.

Are There Ankle Braces That Do Not Weaken The Ankle?

Fortunately, yes. Hinged ankle braces, which allow full unrestricted up and down ankle range of motion, do not weaken the ankle. These braces have hinges on each side of the ankle bone, allowing the brace to move with the ankle, unlike lace-ups that move against it. This synchronized movement ensures that any straps stay securely in place, maintaining long-lasting ankle support.

There are two commonly used styles of hinged ankle braces by athletes – hinged and hinged-cuff. The ‘hinged only’ braces, introduced in 1989, primarily restrict excessive ankle turning or “inversion.” Popular brands include Active Ankle, McDavid, and Shock Doctor.

On the other hand, ‘hinged-cuff’ ankle braces, like the Ultra Zoom®, restrict not only excessive ankle turning (“inversion”) but also rotational twisting, helping prevent both high and low ankle sprains. Brands of hinged-cuff ankle braces include Ultra Ankle, Don Joy, and Ossur.

Conclusion

While some ankle braces, like the lace-up style, can restrict joint range of motion they do not necessarily weaken the ankle. A lace-up brace would have to be worn over an extended period of time to cause any major damage. Hinged and hinged-cuff ankle braces, however, do not have any negative impact on the strength and movement of the ankle joint. However, if you want to prevent ankle injuries, I do suggest wearing and ankle brace of some kind. Please note, neoprene sleeves are not ankle braces and provide zero support.

If you have more questions about ankle braces and their effects on ankle strength, feel free to leave a comment below or send us a message. We are here to help!

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Ultra Zoom

Help prevent ankle injuries all season long.
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Ultra High-5

Reinforce the ankle after a history of multiple ankle injuries
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Ultra CTS

Maximize stabilization to treat acute ankle injuries
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While wearing an ankle brace to prevent ankle injuries may seem like common sense to some athletes, many participants of sports with a high incidence of ankle injuries still don’t find the value in wearing a preventative ankle brace.

Since there are an estimated 25,000 ankle sprains every day in the United States, we wanted to create an infographic that illustrated what that number means in the variety of sports that have athletes that wear preventative ankle bracing.

Recapping Important Facts About Ankle Sprains

  • In the U.S. an estimated 25,000 ankle sprains occur per day.
  • 45% of HS volleyball players will injure their ankle during the sports season.
  • 70% of varsity basketball players have suffered at least one ankle sprain.
  • 85% of youth soccer injuries are recorded as ankle sprains.
  • After spraining an ankle you are 70% more likely to re-sprain your ankle.
  • Lace-up braces were invented before modern sports while the Ultra Zoom was specifically designed for modern sports.
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Ultra Zoom

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Ultra High-5

Reinforce the ankle after a history of multiple ankle injuries
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Maximize stabilization to treat acute ankle injuries
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Even though they aren’t the most common ankle issue, acute ankle injuries tend to be discussed more among athletic trainers and sports medicine professionals since they can be the most damaging to an athlete and their career. But what about the most common, less-discussed ankle issue that is prevalent among today’s athletes both young and old? I’m talking about non-acute mild/moderate ankle instability.

Let’s say an athlete has a brief history of previous ligament injuries to the same ankle and they play a sport with a high incidence of ankle injuries, like basketball or volleyball. One goal as an athletic trainer would be to stop the cycle of ankle injury to prevent more severe problems down the road – but what are the best injury prevention methods for mild/moderate ankle instability?

After an ankle injury occurs, the standard next step for most athletic trainers is to implement a rehabilitation program customized to the injured athlete’s specific needs. Though stretching, strength-building, and proprioception exercises help to heal the ankle, it’s never back to 100% because the damaged ligament has lost some of its integrity (tightness) making reoccurring ankle injuries a distinct possibility. For that reason alone, it’s important to prevent ankle injuries before they even occur.

While we would love to share with you a long list of proven ways to prevent ankle injuries, the truth is that bracing the ankle joint is the most effective treatment method available. Once a rehab program is complete what is to stop a volleyball player from landing on another person’s shoe during a jump? A football player from being tackled and falling at the wrong angle? A basketball player from grabbing a rebound and landing on another player? It’s a split second movement that no amount of ankle strengthening can prevent.

With the goal of preventing another ankle injury in mind, the best treatment method for managing mild/moderate ankle instability is to brace the ankle. Bracing is going to provide more support than tape and for a longer period of time. Since we are not focusing on chronic ankle instability, the brace need not be super rigid and restrictive but instead be a lightweight, low-profile ankle brace that is comfortable to wear over long periods of time. A comfortable, long-lasting ankle brace would be the most effective method of treating mild/moderate ankle instability without restricting athletic performance.

If you’ve worked with athletes with mild/moderate ankle instability in the past, what are some of your go-to treatment and rehabilitation options? What methods do you feel have worked best and why? Let us know on our Facebook page, share with us on Twitter, or send us a message on our website.

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Ultra Zoom

Help prevent ankle injuries all season long.
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Ultra High-5

Reinforce the ankle after a history of multiple ankle injuries
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Ultra CTS

Maximize stabilization to treat acute ankle injuries
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Here’s the scenario: a player goes down with an ankle injury. The athletic trainer brings the player back to the sidelines, takes off his or her shoe and sock and begins to tape the injured ankle.  After a roll of tape the player hops off the taping table to give it a try but is still hobbling around, unable to tolerate the pain.  Why? You just put the best tape job of your life on that ankle, it should be stable. Here’s the thing, it’s not the ankle instability that is causing the pain, it’s the impact. Tape alone cannot reduce weight-bearing impact. So what options do have to reduce impact – and the pain associated with it, thus allowing the player to return quickly, safely and relatively pain free to competition?

Reducing painful weight-bearing impact from acute ankle injury is the key to a quick return to activity. Tape can’t reduce ankle impact, lace-ups can’t reduce impact, any ankle brace that has a soft bottom or open heel section can’t reduce impact. You must use an ankle brace that “unloads” the ankle to reduce painful weight-bearing impact. Unloading means the ankle brace is absorbing the impact or energy, not the sore ankle.

To achieve maximum ankle unloading, the ankle brace must be made with a semi-rigid resin having a hinged cuff U-shaped design. The hinge is important because it allows the ankle brace to move with the ankle, staying securely in place maintaining long-lasting support. The cuff which wraps around the posterior lower leg is extremely important because it absorbs the impact and transfers that impact/energy to the lower leg. This technology is efficient in ankle unloading because it creates significant stabilization and support due to the U-shape semi-rigid design in both the vertical and horizontal planes.

At Ultra Ankle® we have developed two ankle bracing technologies that will unload the ankle. The Ultra High-5® is a hinged-cuff design that is recommended for chronic ankle instability and reoccurring joint pain. The Ultra CTS® is a hinged-cuff detachable shell design that is recommended for acute ankle injury treatment and rehabilitation. The Ultra CTS® provides maximum lower leg compression and stabilization with significant ankle unloading to reduce weight bearing pain. The Ultra CTS® is the ankle brace every athletic trainer should have available on game day.

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Ultra Zoom

Help prevent ankle injuries all season long.
Shop Now

Ultra High-5

Reinforce the ankle after a history of multiple ankle injuries
Shop Now

Ultra CTS

Maximize stabilization to treat acute ankle injuries
Shop Now