Ankle Taping

Written by Brett Harrop

Updated:

The following ankle taping techniques are designed to support the ankle and reduce stress on the ankle during activity. They can be used for both the treatment and prevention of ankle injuries. You should discuss the suitability of these taping techniques with your physiotherapist prior to using them. Generally, they should only be applied provided they are comfortable and do not cause an increase in pain, discolouration, pins and needles, numbness or excessive redness of the foot and ankle.

For detailed information on how to perform ankle taping techniques for conditions such as posterior ankle impingement or tibialis anterior tendonitis see posterior ankle impingement taping.


What sort of tape should be used to tape my ankle?

There are many different tapes and bandages available for use by physiotherapists and patients. However, when the purpose is to restrict undesired motion, only adhesive, non-stretch (rigid) sports tape is appropriate. (For ankle strapping 38mm is usually the most appropriate size). This should always be used in combination with hypoallergenic tape as an underlay, such as Fixomull.



Benefits of Ankle Taping

When used correctly, ankle taping techniques can:


Indications for Ankle Taping

It is generally beneficial to tape an ankle in the following instances:




When should I avoid Ankle Taping?

Ankle taping should be avoided in the following instances:

Weaning off ankle tape in general activity is usually recommended as strength, range of movement and balance improves and symptoms reduce. In these instances though, taping during high-risk activity (such as sport) is usually still recommended.


Ankle Taping Techniques

The following taping techniques may be used to provide support for the ankle and are particularly beneficial following a lateral ligament sprain of the ankle, or, to prevent an ankle sprain. Generally it is recommended that the ankle is shaved 12 hours prior to taping (to prevent painful removal of hairs and skin irritation). The skin should be cleaned, removing any grease or sweat, and should be dry. Low irritant Fixomull tape should be applied as an under-wrap to reduce the likelihood of skin irritation with rigid sports tape over the top of this. Some, or all, of these ankle taping techniques may be applied to tape the ankle and provide the support required for the individual.


Anchor

Place a strip of tape around the lower 1/3 of the shin (figure 1). This should be applied gently to prevent circulatory problems and is used as a fixation point for the other ankle taping techniques.

Ankle Taping - Anchor
Figure 1 – Anchor


Stirrups

Keeping the foot and ankle in a neutral position (foot and toes pointing vertically upwards), start the tape at the level of the anchor on the inner aspect of the ankle and lower leg. Begin this taping technique by following the black arrows (figure 2) and conclude this taping technique at the level of the anchor at the outer aspect of the ankle and lower leg by firmly following the white arrows (figure 3). Do 2-3 stirrups just slightly forwards and backwards of each other depending on the amount of support required.

Ankle Strapping - Stirrups (Medial)
Figure 2 – Beginning of Stirrup (Inner Ankle)
Ankle Taping - Stirrups (Lateral)
Figure 3 – End of Stirrup (Outer Ankle)

Figure-of-6’s

Keeping the foot and ankle in a neutral position, start the tape at the level of the anchor on the inner aspect of the ankle and lower leg. Begin this taping technique by following the black arrows (figure 4) and conclude this taping technique by firmly following the white arrows to the inner aspect of the ankle (figures 4 & 5). Do 1-3 Figure-of-6’s slightly forwards and backwards of each other depending on the amount of support required.

Ankle Strapping - Figure-of-6s (Medial)
Figure 4 – Figure-of-6 (Inner Ankle View)
Ankle Strapping - Figure-of-6s (Lateral)
Figure 5 – Figure-of-6 (Outer Ankle View)

Reverse Figure-of-6’s

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Half Heel Lock

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Reverse Half Heel Lock

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Basic Ankle Taping Recipe

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Comprehensive Ankle Taping Recipe

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Removing the tape

Care should be taken when removing the tape to avoid injury aggravation or skin damage. Blunt nosed tape scissors should be used. The tape should be removed slowly, pulling the tape back on itself with pressure placed on the skin as close as possible to the line of attachment of the tape.Generally tape should be removed within 48 hours of tape application or sooner if there is any increase in pain or symptoms (including skin irritation or itchiness).


Ankle Taping Summary

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Physiotherapy Products to Assist with Postural ExercisesPhysiotherapy Products for Ankle Strapping and Rehabilitation

To purchase physiotherapy products to assist with ankle strapping click on one of the links or visit the PhysioAdvisor Shop.


Ankle Exercises

 

   Ankle Exercises


Other Taping Techniques

  

Other Taping Techniques


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Find a physiotherapist in your local area who can tape an ankle.


More Information  More Information

Read about Ankle Sprains.


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