To Tape, Or Not to Tape? That is the question

Taping vs. prefabricated bracing has been researched on both the efficacy and the cost of each. It has been shown that both can reduce the risk of recurrent ankle sprains. It also has been shown that taping and bracing do help to strengthen the ankle and also improve the proprioception. Proprioception is the body’s ability to detect where it is in space, which is often damaged with a sprain, which leads to recurrent sprains. Taping has been shown to reduce the risk of ankle sprains in the athlete who is prone to the inversion ankle injury. There are several issues with taping though. Some athletes develop irritation from the taping. There are variations in the person taping. The tape has also been shown to lose its efficacy in as soon as10 - 30 minutes. Taping can also be more costly as you add up the cost of the tape on a regular basis and the time of the person taping. The cost of one roll of tape is on average $1.40, which is needed for one ankle plus the cost of pretape, lubricant and the person taping. It can cost over a thousand dollars per athlete per season. Taping does work very well but the cost and loss of strength have been points to advocate the use of a prefabricated brace. Taping also cannot be adjusted by the athlete. Bracing has also been shown to decrease the risk of ankle sprains. Ankle braces are prefabricated and, not being custom to each athlete, may cause some irritation to certain patients. The ankle brace can be adjusted by the individual athlete during the course of the game or practice, which cannot be done with the tape. The cost of the brace is anywhere from $35-$100 which is significantly less than the cost of the tape. For a great brace try the Ossur - Exoform Ankle Brace.

This brace can be found on our website, http://www.vailfoot.com/.  It features -Speed laces allow the user to lace up the Exoform in seconds, a big time saver that will encourage use and drive compliance.
-Slim fit design is low profile and fits easily into all footwear.
- Injection molded exoskeleton forms a network of support zones strategically placed to minimize inversion and eversion without restricting plantar and dorsi-flexion.
-Available with a unique heel-lock strapping system.
-Nylon "figure 8" straps will not stretch during exercise. Fully adjustable even while in use.
-Breathable lightweight fabric enhances comfort by allowing heat and moisture to escape throughout the brace.
-Padded heel and tongue fabric is durable and provides added comfort. Material is 100% latex free. 

If you are experiencing foot or ankle trouble, call our office at 419-423-1888 and make an appointment to see the podiatrist.