Shin Splint Taping
Shin splints are a common and painful lower-leg condition that affect many runners. Shin splints are considered an overuse injury and typically occur after high-impact training on a hard surface, causing the muscles and tendons in the lower legs to become inflamed. The inflammation results in tenderness and pain near the shins. Taping your shins with the use of athletic tape can help you alleviate the pain and pressure associated with this condition.
Try this 7 step tape job for shin splints:
Step 1
Gather your supplies for taping shin splints. Ideally, use athletic tape to prevent stretching. The tape should be at least an inch wide.
Step 2
Clean the skin on the lower leg with soap and warm water. Dirt and oils on the skin can cause the tape to loosen, so apply the tape to clean skin only.
Step 3
Shave the lower legs to remove hair. Not only will the tape stick more securely to smooth skin, but this also allows for easier removal of the tape. If you cannot shave the leg, apply an adhesive underwrap around the entire lower leg.
Step 4
Peel away one end of the tape and secure it to the bony prominence on the medial side of your ankle. Use your fingers to press the tape into the skin, securing the adhesion.
Step 5
Continue wrapping the strip of tape across the front of the ankle, around the back of the Achilles tendon and diagonally back up the front of the shin. Once the tape reaches the side of the leg, carefully tear the tape and gently press the end into the skin. Avoid wrapping the tape too tight around the Achilles tendon, which may cause additional pain.
Step 6
Walk around for a few seconds to see how the tape feels on your leg. If the tape feels too tight or loose, remove and reapply. The tape should reduce some of the pressure on the lower shin bone.
Step 7
Apply two additional layers of tape once you are pleased with the placement. Each layer should slightly overlap the previous layer. Ensure the tape covers the painful area on the shin.
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