THE EFFECTIVENESS OF ANKLE TAPING AND CONSIDERATIONS FOR ALTERNATIVES

Abstract

The use of ankle taping techniques as both a treatment and prevention modality is an accepted practice throughout the amateur and professional athletic world, particularly in North America. The need for an effective support device and the vulnerability of the ankle joint to injury is well supported in the literature. (Gross, Bradshaw, Ventry, and WEller, 1987; Mack, 1975; Distefano, 1981) Researchers have demonstrated the effectiveness of a number of ankle support systems including adhesive tape, non-adhesive strapping lace or supports and semi-rigid orthotics. (Gorss et aI, 1987; Mack, 1975, Distefano, 1981; Robinson, Frederick, Cooper, 1986; Hamil, Knutzen, Bates, 1987) Based on the present research there is question as to which of the ankle support devices presently in use is the most effective. (Gross, et aI, 1987; Hamill, 1987; Davies, 1977) Adhesive ankle taping is traditionally the method used at present by a wide cross section of the athletic population. This study is designed to reinforce and verify the present evidence indicating the extensive increase in range of motion (R.O.M.) of the taped ankle due to the effects of exercise. (Glick, Gordon, Nishimoto, 1976; Ensberg, Andrews, 1987; Davies, 1977, Ferguson, 1973; McCluskey, Blackburn and Lewis, 1976; Simpson, 1966) Considering the application time, skin preparation procedures, taping skill required and cost time convenience of traditional taping methods, alternative ankle support systems should be seriously considered. Trainers and physicians should consider a variety of reusable prosthetic supports which may be equivalent or superior to athletic tape. Some of these devices may be used in combination with traditional taping techniques. Comprehensive research, designed to quantify the effectiveness of the more recent ankle support devices is presently lacking.