Ankle

Ankle Health and Support

Ankle pain – stability, mechanics and technical aspects of ankle support

The role of the ankle in movement

The ankle (talocrural) joint is one of the most dynamic joints in the body. It acts as a transition point between the body's weight and the ground , and must combine stability under load with mobility when walking, jumping, and changing direction .
The joint consists primarily of the shin bone (tibia) , the fibula , and the talus , as well as a network of ligaments and tendons that keep the structure stable.

With each step, the ankle joint is exposed to a force equivalent to up to 5 times body weight , making it particularly vulnerable to both acute sprains and chronic overload.

Common causes of ankle pain

  • Sprain (ligament distortion): most common, especially when twisting inward.
  • Tendonitis: e.g. peroneal tendinitis due to overuse.
  • Joint instability: after repeated sprains where the ligaments have become elongated.
  • Osteoarthritis or cartilage damage: after previous injuries or high stress over time.
  • Overpronation / incorrect foot position: creates oblique load up through the lower leg.

Biomechanical and technical analysis

The ankle joint is biomechanically structured as a hinge joint with torque , which means that small deviations in angle or muscle balance can cause large changes in load.
The force flow in the joint is divided between three main directions:

  • Axial compression: during walking and jumping.
  • Rotational moment: during rapid changes in direction.
  • Shear (slip force): between the talus and the lower leg bone on an incline or uneven surface.

In the event of a sprain, there is a sudden supination with plantar flexion , which stretches the lateral ligaments (especially the anterior talofibular ligament ).
Technical measurements show that these ligaments can be subjected to torque forces of up to 50–70 N·m in a strong twist.

From a biomechanical perspective, recovery is not just about rest, but also about proprioceptive retraining – the brain regaining control over the ankle's position and reaction time.

Prevention and self-care

  • Strengthen foot and calf muscles (e.g. toe raises, balance exercises).
  • Avoid flat, worn-out shoes.
  • Use a balance board after spraining to improve stability.
  • Increase the load gradually after injury.
  • In case of recurring sprains: contact a physiotherapist for gait and movement analysis.

The function of ankle supports – technical overview

Ankle braces are used to limit excessive movement and provide mechanical and sensory support .
Technical solutions vary depending on the purpose:

  • Elastic compression supports: increase circulation, provide lightweight stability and proprioceptive feedback.
  • Semi-rigid supports: combine elastic material with reinforced sides (e.g. plastic or metal inserts).
  • Highly stable orthoses: used in rehabilitation or post-traumatic support.

Several modern designs use gradual compression profile and multiaxial material zones .
This means that pressure decreases from the ankle towards the calf to optimize blood flow and reduce fluid retention – a principle described in several patents, for example:

  • EP2573814A1 – Orthopedic ankle support with gradient compression zones
  • WO2012074538A1 – Functional brace for ankle stability and controlled motion

Clinical and technical observations

Research shows that elastic ankle supports can reduce the risk of re-sprain by up to 50% in people with previous ligament injuries.
The supports also improve reaction time in the event of loss of balance through increased proprioceptive stimulation.
For best results, the support should not replace training, but be used as a complement during activity or rehabilitation .

Summary

The ankle joint is a biomechanically complex and highly loaded structure that requires a balance between strength, stability and mobility.
Understanding force flows and rotational moments is crucial in both the treatment and prevention of injuries.
A technically well-designed ankle support can help reduce the risk of recurring injuries and facilitate a return to normal function.

NordFiness offers support that follows these technical principles – with a focus on comfort, stability and recovery.

References

  • 1177 Care Guide: Sprain and ankle injury
  • Hertel, J. (2002). Functional anatomy, pathomechanics, and pathophysiology of lateral ankle instability. Journal of Athletic Training.
  • Nigg, BM & Segesser, B. (1992). The influence of playing surfaces on the load on the locomotive system and on football and tennis injuries. Sports Medicine.
  • EP2573814A1 – Orthopedic ankle support with gradient compression zones.
  • WO2012074538A1 – Functional brace for ankle stability and controlled motion.
  • NordFiness technical analysis of ankle stabilization support systems.