Inserts and braces can be helpful in the management of ankle arthritis. Selection of the appropriate orthotic requires insight into the location of the cartilage loss, the patient’s walking and standing mechanics, and the patient’s other medical issues. A brace that can fit into the shoe is most commonly used to take stress off the ankle.

In some circumstances, a simple insert is helpful and a brace is not necessary. Pain relief from orthotic management varies and depends on many factors. Often some form of bracing is tried before surgery is considered.

References

Iowa Orthop J. 1995;15:204-8.

The leather ankle lacer.

Saltzman CL, Shurr D, Kamp J, Cook TA.

University of Iowa, Department of Orthopaedics, Iowa City, 52242-1009, USA.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of a leather ankle lacer for treating painful problems of the ankle and hindfoot. The evaluation involved patient self assessment, clinical examination and radiographic determination of the effectiveness of the ankle lacer. Overall, patients had moderate pain relief with significant but not complete restriction of motion. Based on this study and our clinical experience, we find the leather ankle lacer to be a compliant and comfortable treatment strategy for patients with painful ankle and hindfoot problems who desire some retained motion