The EXO-L is an ankle brace made for your ankle from a 3D scan. It allows your ankle’s natural range of motion, but has a seatbelt-like function that can be set to stop unwanted movement before it causes injury. It is designed to help reduce the risk of rolling your ankle while letting you walk, run and play naturally.
Who it may help
- Athletes and active people whose ankles roll or give way
- Returning to sport after an ankle sprain
- Ongoing (chronic) ankle instability
- People who want ankle support without taping every session
- Foot drop and neurological conditions such as cerebral palsy, with the EXO-L UP
EXO-L and EXO-L UP
- EXO-L: a low profile ankle brace for sport and everyday activity, designed for people with unstable ankles.
- EXO-L UP: an extension of the EXO-L for people with foot drop and some neurological conditions. It is smaller and lighter than many traditional ankle foot orthoses (AFOs), so it suits people wanting a low bulk option.
More than just a brace
A brace works best as part of a plan. Alongside your EXO-L we look at:
- Footwear: the right shoes are very important, for the brace and for your ankle.
- Orthotics: many people also need a custom orthotic to get the best from their brace.
- Rehab: strength, balance and stretching work, plus other treatment such as shockwave where it’s appropriate.
It is still possible to injure your ankle while wearing an EXO-L, and it needs to be worn to do its job. We’ll talk you through when to wear it.
What to expect
Wearing in your brace
It takes a little time to get used to a new brace. Some temporary discomfort, irritation, aches, stiffness or changes in balance are common at first, so we recommend going gradually:
- Start with 15 to 20 minutes a day
- Add about an hour each day, as comfort allows
- If you already use a brace or strapping, keep using it and move across to the EXO-L gradually. Strapping can be used with the EXO-L and reduced over time.
Choose your colour
Your EXO-L can be as bright as you like. Black and white come as standard, or choose from bright colours such as red, yellow, green, blue, purple and pink, at a small extra cost.
Red
Yellow
Green
Blue
Purple
Pink
Other options
The EXO-L isn’t the only option. Others include the Richie Brace, rigid strapping, ankle foot orthoses and other ankle braces. We’ll talk you through the options that suit your ankle and your goals.
Sometimes advice is all you need
Not everyone needs treatment. Sometimes the most helpful thing is a clear explanation of what’s going on, practical advice and a plan you can manage yourself. We’ll always talk you through every option, including no treatment, so you can decide what’s right for you.
Frequently asked questions
How is the EXO-L different from a normal ankle brace?
It’s made from a scan of your ankle and anchors to your shoe. It lets your ankle move naturally, then limits the movement that leads to a rolled ankle.
Can I play sport in it?
It’s designed for sport and everyday activity. We’ll talk through your sport and any rules at your assessment.
Will it work with my shoes?
Your shoes need small patches added by a shoe repairer so the brace can anchor to them. We’ll explain this before your fitting.
What is the EXO-L UP?
A version of the EXO-L for foot drop and some neurological conditions, such as cerebral palsy. It is smaller and lighter than many traditional ankle foot orthoses.
Do I still need rehab?
Yes. A brace supports your ankle, but strength and balance work is still important. We’ll build that into your plan.
Can I claim on private health?
Many extras policies include podiatry and orthotic devices. We don’t have on-the-spot claiming, but we’ll give you an itemised receipt to claim with your fund.
Do I need a referral?
No. You can book directly with one of our podiatrists.