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.

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.

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.

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.).

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.

When it comes to preventing ankle injuries or providing support after an injury has occurred, two methods often come to mind – taping the ankle or wearing an ankle brace. These methods are common choices among athletes, athletic trainers, and physiotherapists for providing stability to an injured or unstable ankle. In this blog post, we will discuss the advantages, disadvantages, and comparative effectiveness of both strategies, thereby assisting you in making an informed decision.

Ankle Taping: The Traditional Approach

Ankle taping has been a staple in sports and athletic activities for decades. It involves wrapping athletic tape around the ankle in a specific pattern to provide support and restrict certain movements that could lead to injury.

Advantages of Ankle Taping:

1. Customizability: Taping allows for customization based on the individual’s unique anatomy and the specific nature of their injury or risk. It can be tailored to provide targeted support.(1).
2. Versatility: Taping can adapt to various sports and activities, allowing for a degree of movement while offering the right amount of restriction to prevent further injury.(1).

Disadvantages of Ankle Taping:

1. Time-consuming: Proper taping is a skill that requires practice and can be time-consuming, especially for beginners.
2. Expensive: Rolls of athletic tape can be costly, and every tape job will be discarded after use(1).
3. Loses Support Quickly: Taping restricts all ankle range of motion, including the natural up and down movement necessary for running and jumping. The moment an athlete steps onto the field or court, their ankle is working against the fabric tape, stretching it out and losing the support that initially felt secure. Sweat also contributes to the tape losing support.
4. Consistent Reapplication: Tape loses its effectiveness over time, often requiring reapplication several times during an extended activity.
5. Potential Skin Irritation: Extended use of tape can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals(1).

Ankle Bracing: The Modern Tool

Ankle braces, on the other hand, represent a more contemporary approach to ankle support. These braces, typically made from plastic or fabric, are designed to be easily applied by the athlete and reused for multiple practices and games. They offer varying levels of support depending on the specific needs of the ankle.

Advantages of Ankle Bracing:

1. Ease of Use: Ankle braces are generally easier and quicker to put on compared to taping. This convenience can be particularly beneficial for athletes who need to prepare quickly before practices or games(2).
2. Durability and Reusability: Unlike tape, ankle braces can be used repeatedly over an extended period, making them a cost-effective solution for long-term use(2).
3. Support: Typically, an ankle brace provides more consistent support than tape. Hinged ankle braces, in particular, maintain ankle support for longer periods of time, even during intense activities.

Disadvantages of Ankle Bracing:

1. Less Customizable: Unlike taping, braces come in fixed designs and may not offer the same level of personalization to the individual’s anatomy(2).
2. Potential Discomfort: Some users may find ankle braces bulky or uncomfortable, especially those made with rigid plastic. Finding the right fit and design can mitigate some of these issues but may require trial and error(2).

Ultra Ankle® Braces: The True Modern Tool

A notable example of high-quality ankle braces is the Ultra Ankle® line of braces. These braces are designed to provide exceptional support and comfort, making them a preferred choice for many athletes and individuals with ankle injuries. Let’s delve into the advantages of using Ultra Ankle braces:

Advantages of Ultra Ankle Braces:

1. Ease of Use: Ultra Ankle® braces are generally easier and quicker to put on compared to taping, reducing preparation time before activities. This ease of use ensures that athletes can spend more time focusing on their performance rather than on injury prevention preparations(3).
2. Durability and Reusability: Ultra Ankle® braces are known for their durability. They are designed for repeated use over an extended period, making them a cost-effective solution for long-term use. This durability ensures consistent support and protection across numerous practices and games(3).
3. Innovative Design: The Ultra Ankle® braces are recognized for their innovative designs, which consider different ankle injuries and the varying degrees of support needed. For example:
   • Ultra Zoom® Ankle Brace: Aimed at preventing or recovering from ankle sprains, it offers flexibility while maintaining robust support.
   • Ultra High-5® Ankle Brace: Designed for individuals with chronic ankle instability, it provides enhanced stability to prevent recurring injuries.
4. Comfort and Fit: Unlike some other brands, Ultra Ankle® braces are often praised for their comfort and ability to fit snugly without being excessively bulky. This comfort is achieved through designs like the Ultra Zoom® and Ultra CTS®, which form a custom fit to the foot and ankle using body heat.
5. Maintaining Ankle Strength: The Ultra Zoom®, Ultra CTS®, and Ultra High-5® offer a different approach than almost any other ankle brace on the market. Instead of imposing a universal restriction on the ankle’s movement, these braces feature a hinged design that allows for a more natural range of motion. This ensures that while the ankle is supported and safeguarded from dangerous movements, it can still move freely within the safe zone. As a result, the muscles and tendons in the ankle continue to be actively engaged during movement, promoting their strength and function. This approach makes the Ultra Zoom®, Ultra CTS®, and Ultra High-5® braces not just protective devices but tools for maintaining, and even improving, the overall health and strength of the ankle(3).

Ankle Taping vs Ankle Braces: The Verdict

When choosing between ankle taping and bracing, it ultimately depends on your individual needs, comfort, and the nature of your activities. Here’s a comparative look to help you make an informed decision:

• Short-term Use or Specific Sporting Events: For short-term use or during a specific sporting event, taping can provide the right amount of support and flexibility. It allows for a high degree of customization tailored to the athlete’s specific requirements and the nature of the sport source.
• Ongoing Competition or Everyday Use: For ongoing competition or daily use, an Ultra Ankle brace is a more practical and cost-effective solution. The durability, ease of use, and consistent support provided by these braces make them ideal for long-term ankle health management(3).

Consulting a Healthcare Provider: It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider regarding your specific requirements. They can offer personalized advice based on your injury history, level of activity, and overall health(1).

Complementary Strength and Balance Training: While ankle taping and braces can provide valuable support, they should be complemented by strength and balance training exercises. These exercises help build robust and resilient ankles, further preventing injuries(2).

Conclusion

The debate between ankle taping and ankle braces is not about finding a clear winner, but about understanding their benefits and limitations. By doing so, you can make an informed decision that best suits your lifestyle, activity level, and personal comfort. Remember, preventing injuries is always better than treating them. Take care of your ankles – you literally stand on the foundation they provide. Optimum ankle health not only boosts your physical performance but also enhances your overall quality of life. Stay strong, stay active, and stride forward with confidence!

High ankle sprains, also known as syndesmotic ankle sprains, are distinct from the more common low ankle sprains. They involve injury to the ligaments that connect the tibia and fibula, particularly the anterior inferior tibiofibular ligament, posterior inferior tibiofibular ligament, and the interosseous membrane. These injuries are often caused by an external rotation and/or dorsiflexion trauma, common in high-impact sports like football, soccer, and basketball. (1) (2)

Symptoms and Diagnosis

The symptoms of a high ankle sprain can be subtle compared to a regular ankle sprain. They typically include pain radiating up the leg, especially when bearing weight or pivoting on the foot, and some swelling. However, high ankle sprains do not usually cause significant bruising or swelling, which can make them difficult to diagnose without proper medical assessment. (1) (2)

To diagnose a high ankle sprain, a physician will perform a physical exam that may include the syndesmosis squeeze test, where the tibia and fibula are compressed together to elicit pain. Imaging tests like X-rays, MRI, or CT scans may also be necessary to rule out fractures or other injuries. (3)

Treatment Options

The treatment of high ankle sprains generally follows the RICE protocol: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. Rest involves avoiding weight-bearing activities to allow the ligaments to heal. Ice should be applied for 15-20 minutes several times a day to reduce swelling. Compression with an elastic bandage helps control swelling, and elevating the leg above the heart reduces pain and inflammation. (1) (3)

In addition to these initial treatments, physical therapy plays a crucial role in recovery, focusing on regaining strength, range of motion, and proprioceptive training. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair torn ligaments and restore stability to the ankle. (2)

The Role of Ultra Ankle® Braces

Ultra CTS® and Ultra Zoom® ankle braces can significantly aid in the treatment, recovery, and further prevention of high ankle sprains. These braces provide the necessary support and stabilization to the ankle and lower leg, reducing the risk of further injury and allowing for pain free weight-bearing activities as the healing progresses. Here are the specific features of each brace:

Ultra CTS® Ankle Brace:

Dynamic Hinged-Cuff Technology: Specifically designed to help prevent external ankle rotation which causes syndesmotic (High) ankle sprains. The Ultra CTS aids in healing by supporting soft tissue recovery. Will help to alleviate weight-bearing pain, encouraging early activity and aiding in quicker rehabilitation post-injury.

Flexible Soft Shell: Made from Performathane®, the Ultra CTS forms a custom-fit to your ankle, providing a comfortable, snug, and secure fit.

PerformaFit® Technology: Transition from the Ultra CTS acute injury ankle brace to a low-profile Ultra CTS activity ankle brace by detaching the PerformaFit upper cuff section. Reattach the PerformaFit cuff section anytime additional ankle support is needed.

The Ultra CTS® is best when used after a walking boot or immediately after injury to help reduce weight bearing pain and provide maximum ankle support and stabilization to aid the healing process and prevent further ankle injury.

Ultra Zoom® Ankle Brace:

Hinged-Cuff Design: Allows for natural up and down ankle movement (dorsiflexion & plantarflexion) while offering excellent support to not only help prevent low “turning” ankle injuries, but also to help prevent rotation “twisting” of the lower leg which can lead to high ankle injuries.

Flexible Soft Shell: Made from Performathane®, the Ultra Zoom forms a custom-fit to your ankle, providing a comfortable, snug, and secure fit.

Durability: Exceptional durability to last multiple seasons. A full ONE YEAR warranty on every component.

The Ultra Zoom® is best when used after the high ankle injury is mostly healed and the athlete is released to return to partial or full activity.

These features make the Ultra Zoom and Ultra CTS ankle braces highly effective in aiding recovery from high ankle sprains, ensuring that patients can return to their daily activities or sports with confidence. (1) (2)

Conclusion

High ankle sprains are complex injuries that require careful diagnosis and treatment. By following proper medical guidance and utilizing supportive devices like the Ultra Zoom and Ultra CTS ankle braces, individuals can effectively manage their recovery and reduce the risk of future injuries. If you have further questions about either the Ultra CTS or Ultra Zoom ankle braces, or, would like to communicate with one of our Certified Athletic Trainers, please reach out to us here.

Title: Experience Enhanced Mobility and Protection with Ultra Ankle’s Hinged Cuff Ankle Braces

It’s 2023 and we’re more active than ever. Whether it’s professional sports, fitness regimens, or simply daily activities, our ankles play a vital role in supporting our movement. This makes them susceptible to injuries, emphasizing the need for an optimal protective solution: Ultra Ankle’s proprietary hinged-cuff ankle braces.

As per recent health statistics, ankle injuries make up approximately 15% of all sporting injuries globally. Athletes are continually seeking effective preventive measures to reduce their downtime and get back into the game faster. That’s where Ultra Ankle’s hinged-cuff or “Limitless Performance Series” ankle braces come into play.

Unlike most traditional ankle braces that restrict mobility, because they bind the ankle in the neutral position, Ultra Ankle’s hinged-cuff design allows for unlimited natural ankle range of motion to enhance performance and keep the muscles strong. The Limitless Performance Series braces restrict excessive ankle turning and twisting to help prevent both low and high ankle injuries.

Innovations in the field have led to these braces being lighter, more comfortable, and more effective than ever before. Because the braces work to reduce the excessive movement that can lead to ankle injuries, it makes them a top choice for athletes looking for preventive solutions, as well as those on the road to recovery.

For active individuals or athletes who have previously suffered an ankle injury, the risk of re-injury is a pressing concern. However, according to recent studies, wearing a hinged-cuff ankle brace can decrease the odds of re-injury by approximately 50%. This is significant when considering the peace of mind and safety it brings to those wearing the brace.

Not only for athletes, but these braces also cater to individuals of all ages with varying activity levels. They provide support and stability for those with weakened or imbalanced ankles, thereby reducing the risk of falls and accidents. The Ultra CTS is the only brace available that helps reduce weight bearing pain in Osteoarthritis patients. The brace “unloads” the ankle and reduces bone-on-bone irritation and pain.

Ultra Ankle’s hinged-cuff ankle braces are a blend of advanced technology, innovative design, and medical-grade materials that provide unparalleled comfort and security. Whether you’re in a high-impact sport, like volleyball or football, or need additional ankle support for everyday activities. Ultra Ankle braces offer innovative solutions for ankle protection.

Invest in your health and mobility today with Ultra Ankle’s hinged-cuff ankle braces. These braces are built for ultimate performance and are designed to adapt to the natural shape of your ankle, offering a secure fit, incredible support, and optimal mobility. Take a proactive step towards ankle injury prevention and enhanced performance with Ultra Ankle.