Effects of low dye taping on foot pressure in subjects with planter fasciitis

Abstract

The purpose of the investigation was to analyze the effect of low dye taping on the vertical foot pressure and the path of the centre of pressure (COP) in individuals with plantar fasciitis. Ten subjects (8 females and 2 males) meeting the specified diagnostic criteria were included in the study. The mean age of the subjects was 28.4 years. Each subject was tested under two conditions, walking with low dye taping and walking without. Vertical foot pressure and COP was measured using the F-Scan Gait Analysis System. Vertical foot pressure was significantly decreased in the rearfoot with the application of low dye taping during contact ( M = 0.29, SD = 0.37, t (9) = 2.46, p < 0.05 ). Subjects did not demonstrate a significant change in pressure in the midfoot during midstance ( M = 0.18, SD = 0.51, t (9) = 1.12, p > 0.05 ). Subjects also did not demonstrate a significant change in pressure in the forefoot during propulsion ( M = 0.08, SD = 0.59, t (9) = 0.46, p > 0.05 ). Analysis of the COP curves revealed no consistent change. Throughout contact, midstance and propulsion there was no tendency towards medialization In the COP. The results of this study supports the research in that low dye taping decreases the amount of pressure transmitted through the foot during contact. However, there was no consistent change In the COP curves with the application of low dye taping failing to support the inferences reported by some researchers. Based upon the results of this investigation low dye taping decreases the foot pressure under the rearfoot during contact. Low dye taping has no consistent effect on the COP, and does not produce any medialization of the COP thereby increasing tension on the plantar fascia. Further study should be pursued analyzing the effects of low dye taping.