Further research shows that Dynamic Tape application improves balance, co-ordination and limb loading in subjects with chronic ankle instability.
There is increasing evidence demonstrating the benefits of Dynamic Taping in those with ankle instability. This recent study by Lukasz Pawik et al, provides further support. In their study:
Pawik and co-workers investigated the impact of Biomechanical Taping™ using the Dynamic Tape®, the original in the Biomechanical Tape® range of products on postural stability on a stable surface in 30 subjects with subacute (7-21 days) inversion ankle sprains. They also looked at the ability to load the affected limb.
Figure 1. The application used during the study
The results showed improvements in the mean radius of sway and also in the ability to asymmetrically load the affected limb particularly with eyes closed or with visual feedback.
While this study only included 30 subjects and 3 x 32second exercises it builds on previous studies showing improvements in Y balance test, Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool (CAIT) and Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) (Pareira et al, 2017), Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT) (Dogan and Güzel, 2021) and Sway Velocity and Path Length during single leg standing tasks in those with CAI and healthy subjects (Kodesh et al, 2021), interestingly using a calf/plantarflexion technique which may impact sagittal plane motion much more than a technique specifically designed to decelerate into inversion and to provide tri planar compression to enhance force closure such as in the example in Figure 1.
It is proposed that by creating a genuine mechanical force resisting motion into the direction that loads the affected ligaments, a higher force is required to produce the same load on the ligament. Furthermore, decelerating the motion may provide increased time to correct position or in fact provide a correcting force itself as seen I the neurological case described here.
Dynamic Tape permits full range of motion allowing the user to utilise normal foot and ankle balance strategies and to accommodate to the ground surface as it does not restrict range of motion. Restrictions with rigid taping and bracing has been shown to have adverse effects on balance (Bennell & Goldie, 1994). Reaching the end of range is not an issue generally. The problem arises when the end of range is reached with a force that is beyond the capacity of the restraining structures. Dynamic Tape aims to moderate this force while also allowing for timely adjustment to the pertubation where possible.
View one of the techniques that we use for later stage rehab (no or minimal residual swelling other than around the lateral malleolus itself) or see how the forces can be modified on this short video.
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