Pain at the back of the ankle or lower calf may signal a problem with an Achilles tendon. People who participate in running, football and racquet sports often suffer from Achilles Tendonitis. Tendons are tough bands of tissue that connect the muscles to the bones. The Achilles tendon connects the calf’s gastrocnemius and soleus muscles to the calcaneus, or heel bone. One of the longest tendons in the body, the Achilles tendon is essential for walking and running, making it susceptible to wear and tear. This week we are looking at a common Kinesio Taping application for the Achilles, to provide support without restricting range of motion. KINESIO TAPING FOR ACHILLES TENDON For this application you will need a roll of Kinesio Tex Tape (5cm). Rolls can be purchased online on our website: http://bit.ly/38ejoRa or through selected online retailers (including Amazon) Directions: 1. Measure and cut 1 I Strip from the back of the heel to the middle of the calf muscle. Remove a small section of paper backing from the end of the Strip and place the anchor of the Strip at the back of the heel with no tension. 2. Flex ankle to bring knee forward over the toes to stretch the Achilles and calf area (keeping the knee straight). Peel away the paper backing and apply I strip up the Achilles tendon and on to the calf. End with no tension on the belly of the calf muscle. Rub the tape to activate the adhesive. 3. Measure and cut 1 Y Strip from the back of the heel to just below the back of the knee. Remove a small section of paper backing from the end of the Strip and place the anchor of the Strip at the back of the heel with no tension (try to apply second anchor on skin and not completely over anchor of first strip) 4. Flex ankle to bring toes upward toward the shin to stretch the area (keeping the knee straight). Apply inside tail by peeling away the paper backing and lay down the end with no tension just below the crease of the knee. Apply outside tail by peeling away the paper backing and lay down the end with no tension just below the crease of the knee. 5. The 2 tails surround the calf muscle. Rub both tails to activate the adhesive. Optional Strip: 6. Measure and cut 1 I Strip. Tear paper backing in the centre of the tape and apply 10% - 15% tension, placing directly over the area of pain. Lay down the ends without tension. Rub the tape to activate the adhesive A therapist trained in Kinesio Tape can help to assess your condition, show you how to apply the tape for your injury and implement a rehabilitation plan.
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