An orthopedic ankle support is disclosed which provides an ultra-thin profile and selective restriction of movement of the user's ankle. In an embodiment, sections of a thin, tense material are welded onto a non-rigid body. The sections may include a tense anchor segment which may be proximate the heel opening and/or sole, and one or more tension segments that may extend from the anchor segment to upper portions of the support. In an embodiment, certain of the tension segments may be connected to an attachment portion affixed on the body, such as a thick lace-up area for tightening the support. Welding of the tension segments onto the body using thermal fusion obviates the need for uncomfortable stitching and material lumps. In addition, welding the tension segments into predetermined orientations enables the designer to have control over the properties of the support such that, for example, the tension segments may be oriented so as to restrict undesirable rotatory motion of the ankle without restricting natural forward and rearward motions of the foot.
