DOES ANKLE TAPING PREVENT INJURY?

Does ankle taping really work? I’ve noticed many of my teammates taping their ankles to prevent re-spraining them. If it is effective, which taping method is the best?

Taping is a widely used method to provide support to joints, especially the ankle. The goal is to lower the risk of re-injury and prevent another sprain. But does it actually work, and how?

Currently, there are only theories to explain why taping might be effective, though it’s generally agreed that it does help reduce the likelihood of re-injury. There are two primary explanations for this:

1. Mechanical Support: Taping provides physical support to the joint, limiting its movement and preventing the ankle from moving too far in any one direction.
2. Enhanced Proprioception: Proprioception refers to the body’s ability to sense the position of a joint, in this case, the ankle. Taping may help improve the ankle’s awareness of changes in surface or terrain, allowing for quick adjustments to maintain balance and stability during movement.

Recently, another theory has emerged based on new research: the placebo effect. This suggests that the taping may not have a significant physical effect but instead boosts the athlete’s confidence. Believing that the tape will protect the ankle could lead to better performance and a reduced risk of injury simply because the athlete expects it to work.

Research also shows that taping doesn’t negatively affect performance, and it’s likely that it does help prevent reinjury. However, it may not necessarily improve ankle function.

In conclusion, taping is a good precautionary measure to prevent further ankle sprains, but the specific taping method isn’t as crucial as the belief that it helps.

Reference: Kate Sawkins, et al. “The Placebo Effect of Ankle Taping in Ankle Instability.” Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, May 2007, Vol. 39, No. 5, pp. 781-787.