THE EFFECTS OF LOW DYE TAPING ON FOOT PRESSURE IN SUBJECTS WITH PLANTAR FASCIITZS

Abstract

The purpose of the investigation was to analyze the effect of low dye taping on vertical foot pressure and the path of the centre of pressure (COP) in individuals with plantar fasciitis. Ten subjects (8 females and 2 males) meeting the diagnostic criteria volunteered as subjects. The mean age of the subjects was 28.4 years. Each subject was k e d under two conditions, walking with low dye taping and walking without. Vertical foot pressure and COP was measured using the F-scan Gait Analysis System. Vertical foot pressure was significantly decreased in the rearfoot and midfoot with the application of low dye taping during contact ( t(9) = 2.46, p < 0.036 ) and midstance ( t(9) = 1.12, p < 0.29 ). Analysis of the COP curves revealed no consistent change. During contact, 6 subjects had no significant change in the COP while 4 subjects indicated a slight lateralization. During midstance 8 subjects displayed no change in the COP while 2 subjects displayed lateralization with the application of low dye taping. During propulsion all subjects displayed no sig cant change in the COP when taped. Throughout contact, midstance and propulsion there was no indication of a tendency towards medialization of the COP. The results of this study supports the research indicating that low dye taping decreases the amount of pressure transmitted through the foot during contact and midstance. However, there was no consistent change in the COP curves with the application of low dye taping. In conclusion, based upon the results of this investigation, low dye taping decreases the foot pressure under the rearfoot during contact and under the midfoot during midstance. Low dye taping had no consistent effect on the COP and did not produce medialization of the COP thereby increasing tension on the plantar fascia. Further study is required on the effects of low dye taping on the gait pattern of patient populations.