Taping Tuesday: Week two - Low dye tape

In the second edition of Taping Tuesday, our Practice Principal and Claremont Football Club head Physiotherapist Anthony McEvoy demonstrates how to do the commonly used ‘low dye’ taping.

This tape job is used extensively by Physiotherapists and Podiatrists as a part of the management for lower limb biomechanical issues including (but not limited to) achilles tendinopathy, plantar fascitis, shin splints and calf pain. It is important to remember that these injuries should be assessed carefully to ensure that you aren’t suffering from more sinister pathologies.

Having watched the video above, it is important to note the following important aspects of a good low dye tape:

• Splaying the metatarsal heads – When applying the first anchor always apply pressure to the bottom of the foot, spreading the metatarsal heads similar to what would happen during normal gait. This will prevent the tape from being too tight when walking.
• Basket weave technique – All tape should start from the lateral aspect of the foot and create a basket weave under the foot to lift and control the arch.
• Lock off loose ends – To complete the low dye tape ensure all loose ends have been covered by a final anchor, again remembering to splay the metatarsal heads.

Remember practise makes perfect so keep working on your taping skills and don’t hesitate to call Lifecare Cottesloe on (08) 9384 3269 or book online with any of your questions or concerns regarding taping or any other musculoskeletal issues.