Posterior Ankle Impingement Taping

Written by Brett Harrop

Updated:

The following ankle taping techniques are designed to support and reduce stress on structures located at the back (posterior aspect) of the ankle and tendons located at the front of the ankle (such as the tibialis anterior tendon) during activity. They can be used for both the treatment and prevention of conditions such as posterior ankle impingement and tibialis anterior tendonitis.

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.


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 posterior ankle impingement taping 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 Posterior Ankle Impingement Taping

When used correctly, these taping techniques can be used to:


Indications for Posterior Ankle Impingement Taping

It is generally beneficial to apply these taping techniques in the following instances:



When should I avoid Posterior Ankle Impingement Taping?

Posterior ankle impingement taping should be avoided in the following instances:

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



Posterior Ankle Impingement Taping Techniques

The following taping techniques may be used to provide support for structures located at the back of the ankle or tendons located at the front of the ankle (such as the tibialis anterior tendon), and are particularly beneficial for patients suffering from injuries such as: posterior ankle impingement or tibialis anterior tendonitis).

Generally, it is recommended that the lower leg / 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. Low irritant Fixomull tape should be applied as an underlay to reduce the likelihood of skin irritation with rigid sports tape over the top of this.

Some or all of the following taping techniques may be applied to tape the ankle and provide the support required for the individual.


Anchors

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

Posterior Ankle Impingement Taping - Anchors
Figure 1 – Anchors

Straight Lines

Keeping the foot and ankle in a neutral position (i.e. the foot and toes should be approximately perpendicular to the lower leg – see figure 1), start the tape at the level of the lower leg anchor. Begin this taping technique by following the black arrow (figure 2) and conclude this taping technique at the level of the forefoot anchor by firmly following the white arrow (figure 2). Do 1 or 2 straight lines either centrally or slightly adjacent to each other depending on the size of the ankle and the amount of support required.

Posterior Ankle Impingement Taping - Straight Line
Figure 2 – Straight Lines

Crosses

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Complete Posterior Ankle Impingement Taping

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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).


Physiotherapy Products for Posterior Ankle Impingement TapingPhysiotherapy products for Posterior Ankle Impingement Taping

To purchase physiotherapy products to assist with Posterior Ankle Impingement Taping click on one of the above links or visit the PhysioAdvisor Shop to view our complete range of Sports Tape & Accessories.


Physiotherapy Exercises Physiotherapy Exercises


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Other Taping Techniques Other Taping Techniques


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