Plantar fasciitis is a foot condition that causes heel pain. It happens when the plantar fascia, a tissue that supports the foot arch, becomes irritated and inflamed. This condition is common among runners and athletes who put their feet through repeated stress.
Fortunately, there are several treatment options for plantar fasciitis, including kinesiology tape.
What Is Kinesiology Tape?
Kinesiology tape is an elastic strip used by healthcare providers to relieve pain after an injury. Also known as kinesio tape, these adhesive strips are placed directly on top of the affected muscles. Unlike the standard athletic tape, kinesiology tape is not meant to be wrapped around the limbs.
If you would like to explore kinesiology tape for plantar fasciitis, here’s what you should know about what it can and can’t do:
Pain Relief
If you have plantar fasciitis, your physical therapist may recommend kinesiology tape as part of your treatment plan.
Since plantar fasciitis usually develops from excessive strain, taping can reduce the stress on the plantar fascia and hold it in place. This method can provide short-term pain relief and prevent further damage to the tissue. Furthermore, taping may decrease swelling, giving your plantar fascia time to heal.
In addition to helping with plantar fasciitis, kinesiology tape has shown promise in alleviating chronic foot pain.
Targeted Support
The advantage of kinesiology tape over other athletic tapes is that it’s highly stretchable, like a rubber band. When you place it on a joint, it can support the inflamed tissue and the supporting muscles and tendons.
Promote Circulation
Some studies suggest that kinesiology tape may help improve circulation in the affected area, although results are mixed. More research is needed to confirm the effectiveness of taping.
On its own, kinesiology taping may not achieve much in terms of promoting blood circulation. However, when paired with regular stretching, treatment outcomes may significantly improve given the evidence-based benefits of stretching.
Make sure to stretch the calf muscles and the Achilles tendon. You can also stretch your toes and flex your feet up and down ten times before standing up.
Consult with a foot doctor if you want more detailed advice on the exercises you can perform to speed up healing.
Improve Physical Performance
Some athletes believe that kinesiology tape can offer a mechanical advantage. However, this claim has yet to be backed by solid science. Doctors suggest that the effects may be perceived rather than rooted in physical changes in the body.
However, if you find that taping helps with plantar fasciitis symptoms, there’s no harm in putting on the tape for extra support.
Proper Use Of Kinesiology Tape
Before putting on kinesiology tape on your foot, ensure that your skin is clean and free from any dirt. Don’t stretch the tape excessively. Once you’re ready, put it near the heel.
The tape should not stay on for more than 24 hours since it loses some of its elasticity after this time. To provide maximum skin stimulation, you need to replace and apply new tape every day. Some individuals report mild skin problems after wearing tape for more than the recommended period.
If you have sensitive skin, your doctor may recommend hypoallergenic undertape. You can apply this before the kinesiology tape for an additional layer of protection.
Plantar Fasciitis Treatments Near Me In South Texas
While kinesiology tape offers benefits, it is not a standalone treatment for plantar fasciitis. It is best used in conjunction with other treatment modalities, like physical therapy. To maximize the effects of kinesiology tape, make sure to visit a healthcare professional for guidance.
If you’re searching for plantar fasciitis treatments near you, look no further than The Podiatry Group of South Texas. Our doctors can diagnose and treat a wide range of foot and ankle disorders, including plantar fasciitis. We can teach you how to use kinesiology tape as part of your treatment plan, along with other therapeutic modalities.
To schedule an appointment, call the location nearest you or fill out our online appointment request form. We have 14 convenient locations in San Antonio, Boerne, Floresville, Hondo, Kenedy, Live Oak, and Uvalde to serve you. Give us a call today and let us help you get back on your feet!
