Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 20, 2026
Evaluating Postural Control and Lower-extremity Muscle Activation in Individuals with Chronic Ankle Instability
Published on: September 18, 2020
The effect of ankle taping on functional performance in participants with functional ankle instability
Shane Halim-Kertanegara1, Jacqueline Raymond1, Claire E Hiller1
1Discipline of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Sydney, PO Box 170, Lidcombe, NSW 1825, Australia.
Objective:
To investigate the effect of rigid ankle tape on functional performance, self-efficacy and perceived stability, confidence and reassurance during functional tasks in participants with functional ankle instability.
Design:
Clinical measurement, crossover design.
Methods:
Participants (n = 25) with functional ankle instability (Cumberland Ankle Instability Score < 25) were recruited from university students and sporting clubs. Participants performed five functional tests with and without the ankle taped. The tests were: figure-8 hopping test, hopping obstacle course, star excursion balance test (SEBT), single-leg stance and stair descent test. Secondary outcome measures were self-efficacy and perception measures.
Results:
Rigid tape significantly decreased the stair descent time by 4% (p = 0.014), but had no effect on performance in the other tests. Self-efficacy increased significantly (p < 0.001). Perceived stability, confidence and reassurance also increased with the ankle taped (p < 0.05) during the stair and two hopping tasks, but not during the SEBT or single-leg stance test.
Conclusion:
Although taping the ankle did not affect performance, except to improve stair descent, it increased self-efficacy and perceived confidence in dynamic tasks. These findings suggest that taping may reduce apprehension without affecting functional performance in those with functional ankle instability and permit continued physical activity or sport participation.
