How to strap an ankle

Ankle injuries are common in sports and everyday activities, making proper strapping essential for stability and support. Figure-8 strapping is a technique often employed using rigid strapping tape to provide firm reinforcement to the ankle joint. This method effectively restricts excessive movement while allowing for some flexibility necessary for natural movement. Below is a comprehensive guide on how to figure-8 strap an ankle using rigid strapping tape:

1. Gather Materials: Begin by gathering the necessary materials, including rigid strapping tape, scissors for cutting the tape, and optionally, pre-wrap or adhesive underwrap for skin protection.
2. Prepare the Ankle: Ensure the ankle is clean and dry before applying any tape. If desired, apply pre-wrap or adhesive underwrap to protect the skin and enhance comfort.
3. Anchor the Tape: Start by anchoring the tape on the inside of the foot, just below the ball of the ankle. Secure the end of the tape firmly but not too tightly to avoid cutting off circulation.
4. First Loop: Bring the tape up and around the back of the ankle, crossing diagonally over the top of the foot. Continue wrapping the tape around the ankle, making a figure-8 pattern. The first loop should go under the foot, crossing diagonally over the top, and then wrapping around the back of the ankle again.
5. Second Loop: Repeat the process for the second loop, ensuring that the tape crosses over the first loop in the opposite direction. This crossing pattern provides additional support to the ankle joint.
6. Secure the Tape: Continue wrapping the tape around the ankle, alternating the direction with each loop to create a secure figure-8 pattern. Ensure the tension is firm but not overly tight to avoid restricting blood flow.
7. Cover the Ankle: After completing several figure-8 loops, finish by wrapping the tape around the ankle once or twice horizontally to provide additional stability. Secure the end of the tape firmly but comfortably.
8. Trim Excess Tape: Use scissors to trim any excess tape, ensuring a neat and tidy finish. Be careful not to cut the tape too close to the skin to prevent it from unraveling.
9. Test Mobility: Once the ankle is securely strapped, test the mobility by gently moving the foot in different directions. The ankle should feel supported and stable, with minimal movement beyond the normal range of motion.
10. Reinforce if Necessary: If additional support is needed, especially for high-impact activities or severe ankle injuries, consider applying a second layer of tape using the same figure-8 technique.
11. Monitor Comfort: Throughout activity, monitor the comfort and fit of the strapping. If the tape feels too tight or uncomfortable, remove and reapply as needed to prevent discomfort or skin irritation.
12. Remove Carefully: When it’s time to remove the tape, carefully peel it off, starting from the anchor point. Pull gently and slowly to avoid causing any pain or skin irritation.

Figure-8 strapping using rigid strapping tape is an effective method for providing stability and support to the ankle joint, particularly during physical activity or recovery from injury. By following these steps carefully and ensuring proper tension and alignment, individuals can effectively protect their ankles and reduce the risk of further injury.