How to tape drainage of the lower leg and ankle

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Are you seeking relief from swelling and discomfort in your lower leg and ankle? Then take a look at this lymphatic drainage technique, which utilises modified I-tapes for optimal results. Unlike traditional lymphatic tapes, these tapes are applied in a spiral fashion, exerting a greater influence on the lymphatic system and reducing swelling while gently mobilising the tissue. This technique is particularly beneficial for conditions like whiplash, where muscle tears result in swelling. While it’s essential to seek professional treatment for muscle tears, incorporating this taping method into your recovery process can be highly beneficial. By gently mobilising the muscle, improving blood circulation, and reducing pain, this technique promotes a faster recovery. After application, it’s important to minimise pressure on the muscle within your pain threshold. Additionally, this tape can effectively alleviate muscle stiffness or calf cramps, providing comprehensive relief for various lower leg and ankle issues.

Get started with these items to tape your calves

Christina peter

Christina’s advice when taping your calves

When taping your calves, it’s crucial to choose a tape that provides strong adhesion and support. That’s why I recommend CureTape kinesiology tape. For regular use, CureTape Classic or Art is ideal. However, if you’re engaging in extreme sports or swimming, opt for the extra sticky CureTape Sports variant!

Christina Peter, Sports Physiotherapist and Tape Instructor for CureTape since 2003

How to tape swollen calves

Tips for Effective Calve Taping:

  • Make sure you understand what’s causing the pain or discomfort
  • Check if there are any reasons why taping might not be a good idea.
  • Before you start, read the instructions carefully.
  • Choose a tape colour or print that suits your style!
  • Round of all the edges to prevent peeling.
  • Avoid stretching the tape at the beginning and end.
  • Rub the tape firmly for better adhesion; warmth helps activate the adhesive.
  • You can shower or swim with the tape on; just pat it dry gently afterward, avoiding vigorous rubbing.
  • To remove the tape easily, use body or massage oil.

Instructions

Tape

Shape:I-Tape, 2,5 cm width.
Number of strips: 3.
Technique: drainage technique (without stretching).

Measuring and cutting the tape

Step 1:

how to tape drainage of the lower leg and ankle - THYSOL UK

  1. Measure the length of the tape from below the hollow of the knee to the foot in a spiral motion around the lower leg.
  2. Cut the tape to width (half 5 cm to 2.5 cm).

 

Applying the tape

Step 1:

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Step 2:

how to tape drainage of the lower leg and ankle 3 - THYSOL UK

Step 3:

how to tape drainage of the lower leg and ankle 4 - THYSOL UK

Step 4:

how to tape drainage of the lower leg and ankle 5 - THYSOL UK

Step 5:

how to tape drainage of the lower leg and ankle 6 - THYSOL UK

Step 6:

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Step 7:

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Step 8:

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  1. Place the base of the first tape on the outside of the lower leg, and apply without stretching.
  2. Apply the tape in a completely tension-free spiral motion around the lower leg to the ankle. The anchor is located at the back of the foot.
  3. Place the base of the second tape also without tension. The anchor starts slightly offset under the first tape, and spirals to the ankle. The anchor is located at the back of the foot.
  4. Place the second tape around the inner muscle belly edge of the calf in the same way.
  5. Apply the base of the third tape without stretching, and in the opposite direction of tapes one and two, to the inside of the lower leg. The tape runs in a spiral form and without stretching to the ankle. The anchor ends at the back of the foot (inside)
  6. Gently rub the tapes together.

Learn how to tape

Want to learn how to apply tape yourself*? We have created the ultimate guide for that! This helpful guide contains:

  • 30 taping instructions for common injuries that taping can help you with
  • 176 pages of clear written instructions
  • 200 step-by-step instructions accompanied by photo’s, illustrations and scannable video’s through QR codes

What are you waiting for? Order your copy today!

*This book is intended for people who want to tape an injury or complaint themselves. If uncertain about the complaint, consult a physiotherapist.

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Who are we?
THYSOL is the manufacturer of the kinesiology tape brand CureTape. As CureTape, we have been training and supplying professionals for almost 25 years. And consumers now know how to find us too! By manufacturing all our tapes in our own factory, we can guarantee the best quality!

Disclaimer
Please note that the indicated tape applications and information on our website about the possibilities with kinesiology tape have not yet been scientifically proven. The statements and examples mentioned are based on long-term experiences of patients and trained therapists.

Contraindications not to tape: pregnancy, open wounds, broken bones, unexplained complaints, allergies and skin diseases, use of medication such as blood thinners, thrombosis and fever. Always apply tape in consultation with a specialist.