NISMAT Athletic Trainer's Corner: Taping for Acute Achilles Tendonitis

NISMAT Athletic Trainer's Corner: Taping for Acute Achilles Tendonitis
by admin — last modified 2007-03-08 10:43
Scenario:

The fall is here again and athletes are beginning to increase their training for the marathon. Ben comes to the training room complaining of pain in the back of his leg towards his heel. After a brief interview Ben tells us the only training change he has made was to increase his mileage gradually. We ask him to see the team doctor. After seeing the team doctor, Ben comes back with a diagnosis of acute Achilles tendonitis. The doctor has said Ben may continue to train provided the condition does not get worse. The physician has also contacted the training room to inquire if there is a taping technique that may take up some of the stress seen by the Achilles tendon. What taping technique might you suggest?


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Apply first anchor strip inferior to the muscle belly of the gastroc. The second strip goes around the metatarsal heads.
With the foot in a position of slight plantar flexion, measure strips of tape from anchor to anchor.

On a table, cross strips to form an 'X,' using 6-8 strips.
Take the completed series of strips and place it from anchor to anchor.
Finally, re-fasten the anchors to keep the support in place.
Completed taping procedure.
This will help restrict dorsiflexion and absorb some of the stress seen by the Achilles tendon.