How to Use a Stirrup Ankle Brace

A stirrup ankle brace is used to keep your ankle from moving (to keep steady) after it gets hurt. Wearing this brace helps the ankle to heal.

How do I put on a stirrup ankle brace?

• Put the bottom of your foot in the bottom of the brace (stirrup).
• Pull the brace up against the sides of your ankle.
• To keep the brace in place, fasten the straps on the brace or use an elastic wrap.
• Adjust the straps or elastic wrap to make the brace fit very close against your ankle. The brace should not be loose or too tight.

What if I feel pain or discomfort?

If the brace feels too tight, you should be able to easily adjust it to make it more comfortable. Let your doctor know if you cannot make it more comfortable. Do not wear the brace if it causes pain or swelling.

Follow these instructions at home:

• Wear this brace as told by your doctor.
• Take off the brace when you take a shower or a bath.
• Loosen the brace if your toes tingle, get numb, or turn cold and blue.
• Try not to move your ankle too much, but wiggle your toes from time to time. This helps to prevent swelling.
• Keep your brace clean and dry.

Get help if:

• You have more bruising, swelling, or pain.
• Your brace causes pain or swelling.
• You cannot make your brace comfortable.

Get help right away if:

• Your toes become blue or cold, and this does not get better when you loosen the brace.