Strapping & Sports Taping

What Is Strapping?

Strapping (sports taping) involves the application of rigid or flexible tape to the foot, ankle or lower limb to provide short-term support, reduce strain and improve comfort during movement. It is commonly used for conditions such as plantar fasciitis, plantar heel pain, ankle sprains, Severs disease, Achilles tendonitis and sports-related foot and ankle injuries.

Strapping can help offload irritated tissues, support the arch or ankle, and provide a sense of stability while you walk or participate in sport. It is usually used as part of a broader management plan that may include soft tissue therapy, stretching programs, strengthening exercises and orthotic therapy.

When Strapping Is Used

Strapping may be considered for a range of acute and longer-term conditions where short-term support or offloading is helpful. Examples include:

• Plantar fasciitis – taping can help offload the arch and reduce strain on the plantar fascia.
• Severs disease – heel taping may assist with comfort in active children.
• Ankle sprains – strapping can provide short-term support while the ankle recovers.
• Heel pain – taping may assist with comfort during walking.
• Achilles tendon-related pain – taping can be used as part of a broader load-management plan.
• Sports conditions – strapping may be used to support the foot or ankle during training and competition.

Your podiatrist will discuss whether strapping is appropriate for your presentation and how it fits with other options such as soft tissue therapy, strengthening exercises and orthotic therapy.

What To Expect From Strapping

During your consultation, your podiatrist will complete a clinical assessment to determine whether strapping is suitable and how it should be used within your overall treatment plan. This may include reviewing your medical history, assessing foot and ankle movement, and considering other therapies such as soft tissue therapy and orthotic therapy.

High-quality medical tape is then applied using techniques suited to your condition and activity level. You will be advised how long to keep the tape on and how to remove it safely. Strapping is generally a short-term measure and is not a substitute for longer-term approaches such as strengthening, stretching and orthotic therapy.

Why Early Assessment Matters

Seeking podiatry assessment early for foot and ankle pain can help identify contributing factors and guide appropriate management. Strapping may be one option used in the short term, alongside other treatments such as soft tissue therapy, orthotic therapy and exercise-based rehabilitation.

• Helps manage symptoms early – short-term support may assist with comfort while longer-term strategies are implemented.
• Supports gradual return to activity – taping can be used as part of a staged return to walking or sport.
• Works alongside other therapies – strapping is often combined with soft tissue therapy, orthotic therapy and strengthening programs.

Your podiatrist will discuss the benefits and limitations of strapping and help you understand how it fits within your overall care plan.

Why Choose Our Bankstown Podiatry Clinic