Is Plantar Fasciitis Taping Effective?

Plantar fasciitis is a very common foot ailment. It has been suggested that it will affect as much as 10% of the population of the United States at some point during a lifetime. The condition can be incredibly painful, and recovery can take many months, and in some cases considerably longer before a full recovery is made. While this is undoubtedly going to come as bad news if you have just been diagnosed with the condition – or worse still – you have already endured the pain from this foot problem for long enough already, the good news is that there is a range of treatment options open to you which can be highly effective. There is no miracle cure*, but fortunately treatment does not need to cost a small fortune. One of the best low cost treatments for this incredibly painful foot condition is plantar fasciitis taping, and whilst not the easiest to administer, it can be highly effective, and especially useful in treating the condition on a tight budget.

*Steroid injections administered by a physician can offer instant, albeit temporary pain relief. Many plantar fasciitis sufferers claim that heel seats offer instant pain relief, and this brand in particular is highly rated.


What Exactly is Plantar Fasciitis Taping

Plantar fasciitis taping is a simple approach to speeding up the healing process. It is used to ease the strain on the plantar fascia ligament and to restrict movement to prevent further damage from being caused. All you need for plantar fasciitis taping is a roll of athletic tape (KT tape is particularly good), clean and dry feet, and the correct technique for applying the tape.

It is important that you learn the correct procedure for plantar fasciitis taping or it will not be effective. The tape needs to be applied so that it restricts movement as well with an anchor point so it stays in the right place.

The video below has an excellent demonstration of how KT tape or athletic tape can be applied.

When Should Plantar Fasciitis Tape be Used?

Plantar fasciitis taping is most effective when used before sports or exercise to prevent further damage being caused. Plantar fasciitis should not totally stop exercise as it is important to keep the plantar fascia stretched; however it is important to take it easy to prevent further damage being caused. Taping the plantar fascia ligament can be a good way to help prevent further damage. The tape can be beneficial when applied to the affected foot first thing in the morning, and it can be worn underneath socks and with shoes on. Taping the plantar fascia throughout the night is unlikely to be effective, and a plantar fasciitis splint is the better choice. Not only can taping stop the skin from breathing and needs to be restricted to a few hours each day, but this method reduces stress, and does not keep the plantar fascia stretched which is the best night time treatment to reduce morning foot pain. Switching to a plantar fasciitis splint for night treatment is best as this method will allow the feet and the skin to breathe, and will keep the plantar fascia stretched throughout the night to prevent rapid stretching and pain when the first steps are taken in the morning.

Who Can Benefit From Plantar Fasciitis Taping?

The effectiveness of plantar fasciitis taping varies, and it is not a hard and fast cure for all. Some people may benefit greatly, for others the effects can be minimal, and there may be no pain relief at all. For mild to moderate plantar fasciitis it may be worth a try, especially as athletic tape is not expensive – even high quality KT tape is only a few dollars a roll.
However it is important to note that taping the plantar fascia is not a cure, and it will not heal the condition. It can be effective at alleviating the pain and providing some respite. You should try this method for a few days to a week to see if it is effective.

When Is Taping the Plantar Fascia Not a Good Option?

There are specific situations when taping of the foot is not advisable, as detailed below.

  • If you suffer from diabetes or have circulation problems you should avoid taping the plantar fascia as this can restrict blood flow to the taped foot
  • If you suffer from skin allergies this may not be a good treatment choice, or hypoallergenic tape should be sought out and you should take care and be vigilant for an skin reactions
  • If taping causes you discomfort you should remove it immediately