Physical therapy for an ankle injury involves manual techniques, therapeutic exercises, and sometimes specialized equipment. The success of your session depends significantly on your ability to move freely and the therapist’s access to the injured area. Selecting appropriate clothing maximizes both the effectiveness of the treatment and your comfort. This proper attire ensures there are no physical barriers to accurate assessment, movement analysis, or the application of various modalities.
Clothing for Optimal Ankle Access and Movement
The clothing covering your leg is important because the physical therapist needs a clear, unobstructed view of the ankle, foot, calf, and knee. This visual access is necessary for accurate assessment of your gait, posture, and range of motion. The material should also allow for full, unconstrained movement during exercises and stretching.
Loose-fitting athletic shorts are the most practical choice, as they immediately expose the ankle and lower leg for manual manipulation or the application of heat, ice, or electrode pads. If you prefer more coverage, choose flexible, non-restrictive sweatpants, joggers, or yoga pants that can be easily rolled up well above the knee. Restrictive clothing, such as jeans or tight leggings, should be avoided. Non-stretchy fabrics limit the therapist’s ability to examine and treat the area, and they interfere with the full range of motion required during rehabilitation exercises.
Selecting the Right Footwear
Footwear directly impacts your safety and the accuracy of the therapist’s assessment, as many ankle rehabilitation exercises involve balance, weight-bearing, and walking. Supportive, closed-toe athletic shoes, such as sneakers or cross-trainers, are necessary for stability and traction during these activities. The footwear should have non-slip soles to prevent falls while navigating clinic surfaces or performing dynamic movements.
It is important to wear or bring clean socks, as the therapist will often ask you to remove your shoes to assess your foot structure and ankle motion without external support. If you use a custom orthotic insert, a brace, or any specialized support device, you must bring it to every appointment. The therapist needs to observe your gait and movement patterns both with and without the device to evaluate its effectiveness and integration into your recovery program.
Practical Tips and What to Leave at Home
For overall comfort and hygiene, wear clean, breathable clothing, such as moisture-wicking fabrics, to manage perspiration during active exercises. Since clinic temperatures can fluctuate, dressing in layers allows you to easily adjust your body temperature throughout the session. Bringing a light jacket or zip-up hoodie prevents you from becoming chilled during rest or overheating during strenuous activity.
Avoid wearing restrictive jewelry, especially anklets, bracelets, or bulky watches, as these items can interfere with manual techniques or snag on equipment. Overly tight clothing that compresses the leg or torso should also be avoided, as it can restrict circulation and make movement uncomfortable. Focus on simple, flexible garments that will not require constant adjustment, allowing you to dedicate your full attention to the therapeutic exercises and instructions.