Kinesiology tape on the top of the foot: what to know

The top of the foot contains tendons, joints, skin and sensitive soft tissue that can be irritated by footwear, training or an injury. A tape application may give a gentle sensory reminder around the foot and ankle while still allowing movement. It should not be tight across the shoe line or over an area that is swollen, bruised or broken. A change in comfort after taping does not explain why the foot hurts.

Use a trained clinician's instructions for the direction and tension, and apply tape only to clean, dry, intact skin. Wear footwear that does not compress the taped area. Walk briefly first and check for rubbing, tingling, numbness, colour change or increased pain. Remove the tape slowly if irritation appears. Rest from the activity that provokes symptoms and use the exercises or load changes recommended for your foot.

Seek an assessment after a fall, twist or impact if walking is difficult, swelling is substantial, or the foot is bruised or tender over a bone. Prompt medical care is appropriate for deformity, an open wound, new numbness, a cold or discoloured foot, or rapidly increasing pain. Pain that continues despite changing footwear and activity should be examined rather than covered with tape.

Ask whether taping is suitable for the painful structure, how it should fit with footwear, and which walking or strengthening tasks are safe. Ask what changes should prompt removal or a review.