How To: Tape an ankle with a basketweave job

This wrap is intended to support and stabilize the ankle joint. Supplies needed include a 1 - ½'' – 2'' adhesive tape, pre-wrap, and heel and lace pads. Apply heel and lace pads at high friction areas, including the distal aspect of the Achilles tendon, and the dorsal aspect of the ankle joint. Apply under-wrap to secure them in place. It is critical that the foot remains at a ninety degree angle for this portion of the procedure. Apply an adhesive tape anchor strip at the lower leg, approximately at the muscular tendon junction of the gastrocnemius. Apply an additional anchor tape at the instep, excessive tension can cause pain on weight bearing. Apply the first of three stirrup strips, beginning at the medial aspect of the upper anchor. This stirrup continues down the inside of the leg over the medial malleolus, across the planar aspect of the foot, over the lateral malleolus, and ends at the lateral aspect of the upper anchor. Apply horseshoe strips, the first horizontal strip is applied on the medial aspect of the foot, continues toward the heel below the medial malleolus, crosses the Achilles tendon, and ends on the lateral aspect of the foot. Repeat steps three and four twice, overlap the tape one half it's width. Apply a proximal anchor for support. Apply the first heel-lock strip angling underneath the foot and moving up the lateral aspect of the heel. Continue around the anterior portion of the ankle, crossing the Achilles tendon and angling underneath the foot, finishing upon the dorsal aspect of the foot. Repeat once more. A figure eight is applied next, starting at the medial aspect of the foot move laterally over the inside of the foot across the planar portion and to the starting point. Continue laterally around the lower leg, crossing the Achilles tendon and finishing at the lateral aspect of the foot. Final closure strips are then applied, begin proximally and progress distally. Once completed, check for proper blood flow in toes.