The Proper Use of an Ankle Tape Cutter

Ankle taping is performed to provide protection for the ankle and help prevent further injury by placing the joint in the correct position and providing additional stabilization. It is most commonly performed as a protective measure for athletes while participating in sporting events. Leaving the tape on for extended periods of time will impede normal circulation, so the tape should be removed after the event has concluded. Due to the close bond the tape forms with the skin, it is best to use specialized tape cutters to remove the tape.

Instructions

• 1

  Position yourself on the inside of the injured ankle. Place one hand on the outside of the injured leg to stabilize the leg during the tape removal.

• 2

  Place the tip of the tape cutters under the tape at the arch of the foot. The area will be the easiest to access because the arch is slightly indented and there are no bony prominences.

• 3

  Slide the cutters along the tape in the direction of the patient's head to begin cutting. Bring the cutters behind the ankle bone and follow the natural curve of the leg ending along back of the calf muscle.

• 4

  Lift the tape cutters away from the leg when you have completed cutting off the tape. Carefully pull the tape away from the skin.