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What is Plantar Fasciitis Taping?

Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

Plantar fasciitis taping is a strategy that is used to relief stress on the plantar fascia. By inhibiting the movement of the fascia, it is possible to minimize some of the pain experienced during the occurrence of plantar fasciitis. Taping can also aid in the healing process, as well as make it somewhat easier for the individual to move around.

To understand how the process of plantar fasciitis taping works, it is important to grasp the nature of the plantar fascia. This thick tissue helps to support the arch of the foot, and runs along the muscles around the sole of the foot. When the plantar fascia is bruised or inflamed in some manner, a great deal of pain in the arch and the heel can take place. Injury can be due to running during sports, or any type of activity that causes the arch and the surrounding tissue to be strained. The resulting medical condition is known as plantar fasciitis.

Plantar fasciitis often causes feet to hurt in the morning.
Plantar fasciitis often causes feet to hurt in the morning.

As with many types of tissue and ligament strains, there is often a great deal of swelling and inflammation that takes place during an injury. The process of plantar fasciitis taping serves two main purposes. First, the taping protects the injured area, thus preventing further trauma. Second, the taping helps to provide support for the arch and the heel, as well as help to contain the swelling and allow the fascia to begin healing.

The plantar fascia is a thick tissue that helps to support the arch of the foot.
The plantar fascia is a thick tissue that helps to support the arch of the foot.

The process of plantar fasciitis taping can be used as a preventive measure as well. Applying the tape to the arch and the heel area prior to engaging in strenuous physical activity will limit the plantar fascia’s range of motion, thus minimizing the potential for strain on the heel and arch area. For example, the taping would limit the amount of stretching that is done during running, which in turn would keep the stress level on the back portion of the foot and lower leg at a safe level. Athletes often make use of this application in order to prevent an injury.

While plantar fasciitis taping is considered to be very helpful in preventing and treating strains and the resulting heel pain, it is important to remember that the strategy should not be used alone. Combining the taping with other treatments, such as the administration of anti-inflammatory drugs and the use of ice packs throughout the day, will expedite the healing process, as well as make it easier to deal with any lingering pain. In addition, a plantar fasciitis taping should not be worn around the clock. Removing the tape at night is usually recommended, as well as removing the tape at some point during the day and allowing the skin on the foot to be exposed to the air.

Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

After many years in the teleconferencing industry, Michael decided to embrace his passion for trivia, research, and writing by becoming a full-time freelance writer. Since then, he has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including WiseGEEK, and his work has also appeared in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and several newspapers. Malcolm’s other interests include collecting vinyl records, minor league baseball, and cycling.

Learn more...
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

After many years in the teleconferencing industry, Michael decided to embrace his passion for trivia, research, and writing by becoming a full-time freelance writer. Since then, he has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including WiseGEEK, and his work has also appeared in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and several newspapers. Malcolm’s other interests include collecting vinyl records, minor league baseball, and cycling.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

Maizie88

I have just recently became a believer in what taping can do for Plantar Fasciitis / Metatarsalgia / Morton's Neuroma. I had Morton's Neuroma and Metatarsalia and didn't start taping until about 3 weeks into my treatment regime, but as soon as I did, I could feel the difference. Your plantar just feels more stabilized with it on. I used 'KB Tape' and loved it. I also added it to my treatment regime with BFST foot wrap.

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    • Plantar fasciitis often causes feet to hurt in the morning.
      By: bryndin
      Plantar fasciitis often causes feet to hurt in the morning.
    • The plantar fascia is a thick tissue that helps to support the arch of the foot.
      By: bilderzwerg
      The plantar fascia is a thick tissue that helps to support the arch of the foot.