Elastoplast: How to strap and support the ankle

Summary

In this video, Dr. Peter Larkins explains the commonality of ankle injuries in sports and emphasizes the importance of proper taping techniques for rehabilitation and injury prevention. Osteopath Paul Herrmann demonstrates a step-by-step ankle taping procedure aimed at providing support and stability, especially for lateral ankle injuries. The process includes skin preparation, application of stirrups, figure-six, and heel-lock techniques, along with tips for using additional adhesive bandages for compression. This method is designed to aid recovery and reduce the risk of further injury, ensuring a safe return to sport.

Takeaways

• 😀 The ankle is the most commonly injured weight-bearing joint in sports, often affecting the lateral ligaments.
• 😀 Studies show that taping the ankle can help prevent injuries, in addition to aiding in rehabilitation and returning to sport.
• 😀 Skin preparation is crucial before taping: either a wet shave 48 hours prior or a dry shave on the day of taping to remove hair.
• 😀 For sensitive skin, Elastoplast Sport can be used underneath the tape to prevent irritation and provide extra comfort.
• 😀 The taping procedure starts with an anchor just above the ankle joint to secure the tape in place.
• 😀 Three stirrups (U-shaped tape) are applied from the medial (inner) side of the ankle, pulling towards the lateral (outer) side for support.
• 😀 A figure-six taping pattern is applied, going under the foot and crossing over the front of the ankle to further stabilize the joint.
• 😀 For additional support, a heel lock can be performed by wrapping the tape around the heel and crossing over the ankle.
• 😀 The procedure is concluded with another anchor above the ankle to secure the tape and ensure full stability.
• 😀 In more acute cases, compression using Elastoplast Adhesive Bandage can help reduce swelling and inflammation while enhancing the tape's effectiveness.
• 😀 The goal of ankle taping is to prevent further injury, support the ankle during rehabilitation, and facilitate a safe return to activity.

Q & A

What is the most common joint injury in sports?

The ankle is the most common weight-bearing joint that is injured in sports.

Which side of the ankle is typically injured in sports?

The lateral (outside) side of the ankle is most commonly injured, but the medial (inside) side can also be affected, or a combination of both.

Can taping prevent ankle injuries?

Yes, studies show that taping the ankle can help prevent injuries, in addition to aiding in rehabilitation and returning to play.

What is the first step before taping an ankle?

Before taping, it is important to prepare the skin by shaving the area either 48 hours prior with a wet shave or on the day with a dry shave to remove any hair.

What can be done if a person has sensitive skin during taping?

If you have sensitive skin, you can use Elastoplast Sport Alastoplast under the tape to prevent skin irritation.

What is the purpose of the lateral ankle taping procedure?

Lateral ankle taping supports the outside of the ankle, especially following an injury, to assist in recovery, rehabilitation, and prevention of further injury.

How is the stirrup technique used in ankle taping?

The stirrup technique involves applying tape from the inside (medial) of the ankle, pulling up to support the lateral ankle, with each layer of tape covering the previous one by 25% to ensure adequate support.

What is the figure-six taping technique for?

The figure-six taping technique provides additional support by wrapping the tape from the medial side of the ankle underneath the foot, across the front of the ankle, and finishing on the medial calf.

What is the purpose of a heel lock in ankle taping?

A heel lock is used in mild to moderate sprains to provide extra support around the heel, preventing excessive movement and improving stability.

What is the role of the Alastoplast adhesive bandage in ankle taping?

In more acute situations, Alastoplast adhesive bandage is used to aid compression, reducing swelling and inflammation by covering the rigid tape and providing additional support.