As fall sports kick into high gear, it's common to see athletes — especially football, soccer, and cross-country runners — wrapping their ankles or feet in layers of tape before hitting the field. It’s a familiar ritual that looks serious and preventative, but is taping always the best option?

At Freeland Foot & Ankle Clinic, we specialize in non-surgical treatments for all ages — from active kids to seasoned athletes — and we're breaking down the truth behind athletic taping: when it helps, when it doesn’t, and what safer long-term alternatives exist.

Why Do Athletes Tape Their Ankles or Feet?

Athletic taping is often used to:

  • Prevent ankle sprains or rolls

  • Support a previously injured foot or ankle

  • Provide a feeling of extra stability during high-impact activity

  • Reduce swelling or control movement post-injury

In fast-paced fall sports like football, soccer, and cross country, where athletes are constantly cutting, jumping, and pivoting, that extra support can feel essential. But there’s a fine line between helpful support and a false sense of security.

The Pros and Cons of Taping

When Taping is a "Treat":

  • Short-term support for weak or recovering joints

  • Quick solution during practice or game time

  • Provides compression to control swelling (when done properly)

When Taping Can Be a "Trick":

  • Overuse can lead to muscle weakness or dependency

  • Incorrect technique can restrict circulation or worsen an injury

  • Taping alone does not prevent injuries — it just masks symptoms

  • Can limit natural range of motion over time

Many athletes rely too heavily on tape without addressing the underlying cause of instability — which can lead to repeat injuries or even long-term damage.

Common Taping Mistakes We See

At Freeland Foot & Ankle Clinic, we frequently treat patients who have been:

  • Taping too tightly, leading to numbness or bruising

  • Using improper tape (e.g., KT tape when athletic tape is needed — and vice versa)

  • Self-taping without guidance — especially young athletes watching YouTube tutorials

  • Failing to combine taping with rehab, bracing, or professional evaluation

Tape Smart: Our Expert Recommendations

Here’s what Dr. Dailey and our team recommend for fall athletes considering taping:

  1. Use taping as a short-term aid, not a permanent solution

  2. Seek professional guidance — improper taping can do more harm than good

  3. Pair taping with physical therapy or strengthening routines

  4. Don't ignore pain — taping shouldn’t replace medical evaluation

  5. Consider bracing or orthotics for safer, longer-term support

Better Than Tape? Try a Personalized Approach

We offer:

  • Gait analysis to assess movement and foot alignment

  • Custom orthotics tailored to athletes’ needs

  • Non-surgical treatment plans to build strength and stability

  • Sports injury evaluations for youth and adult athletes alike

Taping may be a temporary fix, but real injury prevention starts with proper care — and that's exactly what we provide at Freeland Foot & Ankle Clinic. Call us today at 989-695-6788 to schedule an appointment. 

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