The Sporttape | Taping ankle joint

The Sporttape

Sporttape is an umbrella term for various types of tapes. Roughly divided, there is inelastic sports tape, which is mostly used in sports competitions, and the elastic kinesiotape, which is used in many different applications.

  • The inelastic sports tape has the advantage that it can effectively stabilize the ankle joint. Especially in competition situations, injuries can be prevented or existing ligament and tendon injuries can be protected from tension. However, the use of inelastic tape is not suitable for long-term therapy, as it can impede blood circulation and reduce the activity of the joint-stabilizing muscles.

Instructions for the Kinesiotape

There are many different possibilities for taping the ankle, depending on the desired effect and the tape used. The following instructions are intended for the elastic kinesiotape, as it is easier to use at home and more practical in everyday life. It is a tape bandage that is used for stabilization, for example in case of pain after bending over.

  • Apply the first strip of tape under traction crosswise directly to the ankle joint, i.e. where the shin passes into the forefoot.

    The strip should cover both ankles. Then glue the middle of the second strip under the sole of the foot just before the heel and pull the two reins upwards. Attach them to the ankles parallel to the shin and let them run out a bit above.

  • The next strip is glued on in a figure of eight shape.

    Start a little above the outer ankle and let the tape run under traction past the inner ankle under the sole of the foot. Pull it up again at the outer edge of the foot and finally fasten the figure of eight over the inner ankle.

  • If you want even more stability now, you can stick another tape in the same shape over the first eight. The tape will come off by itself after a few days due to showering and similar influences. Otherwise remove it after 5-7 days.