The effects of prophylactic ankle bracing on dynamic reach distance and obstacle course performance in military cadets.

Ankle braces can protect the ankle joint from ligament sprains and fractures during high-risk military activities such as physical training and parachuting. Although braces are recommended for injury prevention purposes, the impact of braces on physical performance is unknown. This study evaluated lace-up ankle braces, worn inside the boots, across three conditions: no brace, unilateral brace, and bilateral brace on the dependent variables of dynamic lower extremity reach and obstacle course performance. Thirty-seven military cadets were tested over 3 days. Ankle bracing had a small effect upon anterior and composite lower extremity reach distances. Bracing had no effect upon obstacle course performance times. Inside-the-boot ankle bracing restricts lower extremity reaching and mildly impacts mobility, however, no restrictions were observed with running, climbing, jumping, or negotiating obstacles. Lace-up ankle braces can be used in conjunction with combat boots to protect the ankle during high-risk activities without having an impact upon tactical movements.