| dc.description.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. | |
