The Achilles tendon is a strong tendon but also incredibly injury-prone. Taping the Achilles tendon can help tremendously with injuries and reduce pain. In this blog, we will explain how to tape the Achilles tendon correctly and what to look out for to recover as quickly as possible. Read on quickly below.
What are the benefits of taping the Achilles tendon?
Taping the Achilles tendon offers several benefits.
- Taping can help reduce pain in the Achilles tendon, allowing normal pain-free movement.
- Taping can effectively help the healing of an inflamed or damaged Achilles tendon by giving the tendon more support and less strain.
- The tape provides active support to the Achilles tendon and helps stabilise it slightly.
- Supportive taping can reduce the local strain on the Achilles tendon.
- Taping the calf muscle can promote the removal of waste products.
- For athletes, taping can help prevent problems with the Achilles tendon, especially in activities that put heavy strain on the tendon.
Taping is often used in combination with other treatment methods, such as rest, exercises and possibly adapted footwear, for optimal recovery from Achilles tendon problems.
What causes an Achilles tendon injury?
There are several causes of an Achilles tendon injury. Overuse, for example due to intense exercise, is one of them. This leads to pain, stiffness and sometimes thickening. Without treatment, the symptoms can worsen. Insufficient warm-up before exercise, or poor running technique, can also cause an Achilles tendon injury. Problems with the calf muscle can also cause Achilles tendon problems, especially with heavy loads. The injury is most common in people aged between 30 and 60.
When is it advisable to tape the Achilles tendon?
Taping the Achilles tendon can be advisable in various situations: for Achilles tendon pain and overuse, recovery from Achilles tendinitis or bursitis. The tape can also be used preventively, for example for athletes who use their Achilles tendon intensively. Taping the Achilles tendon reduces pain, provides support and stabilisation to the tendon and promotes the removal of waste products from the calf muscle.
How do you tape the Achilles tendon?
Taping the Achilles tendon is performed in the following steps:
1. Preparation:
- Make sure the skin is clean, dry and free of hair.
- Cut two pieces of kinesiology tape: one long strip from the toes to the middle of the lower leg, and one short strip about 15 cm long.
- Round the ends of the tape to prevent loosening.
2. Applying the long strip:
- Start by applying the tape without stretching under the foot at the toes.
- Apply the tape tension-free up to the back of the heel.
- Place the foot in dorsal flexion (toes towards you).
- Pull out the tape and apply it with tension over the Achilles tendon.
- Stick the last part on the lower leg without stretching.
3. Application of the short strip:
- Tear the paper in the middle of the short strip.
- Fully stretch the tape and stick it across the sore on the Achilles tendon.
4. Finish:
- Rub all applied tape firmly for good adhesion.
Need additional information?
After reading this article, do you still have questions about taping the Achilles tendon or using kinesiology tape? Then don't hesitate to contact our highly knowledgeable customer service team. Our team consists of enthusiastic professionals who can answer all your questions and help you along the way. We can be reached via phone, live chat and e-mail.
