Our day to day routine can be significantly affected by discomforts felt by the entire body. Often, these discomforts are caused by various sports activities and strenuous work we engage in. Among the parts of our body that are often exposed to these discomforts are our feet. As such, it is a must that we protect them when participating in said activities-and one of the most effective ways of accomplishing such is through the use of ankle bandages.
Wound under the sole of the foot around the ankle, an ankle bandage is a type of figure eight bandage. These bandages are used in treating injuries such as bruised or swollen ankle which are usually caused by a misstep or other strenuous activities. Their main body which encloses the ankle and instep region of the foot is sock-shaped. With the high demand for these bandages, they can be purchased in the market in a huge variety of types and designs.
Ankle bandages also known as elastic “roller bandages” are among the most popular type of bandage in the market. These are elastic wraps which are 2 inches wide and 4 feet long. They come in a roll and have Velcro or metal clips as fastenings to keep them in place once wrapped. Such bandage type offers a firm but gentle pressure on an injured ankle and can help alleviate swelling as well as hold dressings in place if there is a wound. They also help improve blood flow and give support to the injured area.
How is an ankle bandage used? The first thing that needs to be done when using this bandage is to hold it in such a way that the roll is facing up. This is important especially with those having Velcro fastenings to ensure that they face the right way and stick to the bandage once wrapping is finished. Wrapping should start from the loose end of the bandage which will be found on top of the foot. The loose end of should be held in place using one hand while the other hand should be used to wrap the bandage in a circle twice around the foot. Outside to inside is the direction used when wrapping. This means starting with little toe at the side of the foot to the big toe on the other side.
Then, in a spiral way like making a “figure 8″, start wrapping the heel up to the ankle. Before fastening the end to rest with a tape, metal clip, or Velcro, it is a must to ensure that the bandage passed through the calf. For a more comfortable feeling, it is recommended that the wrap be not too tight. Also, one should allow the foot to breathe especially when experiencing a feeling of numbness by taking off the bandage. It is recommended that it be removed at least twice a day. It is suggested to purchase ankle bandages in pairs. This will allow one to use the other pair when the other one gets dirty and needs to be washed.
Protecting our ankle and treating it properly is one way of taking care of our body. One of the best ways to do this is to choose and use an ankle bandage properly.
Kristen Cowell is a runner from Germany. Ankle Bandages, or “Sprunggelenkbandage” as they call it in German, are must-haves for Kristen whenever she participates in any running or marathon event.








