How to Tape a Lateral Sprain

Taping a lateral ankle sprain is an essential treatment in the healing process. A lateral ankle sprain is the most common type of ankle sprain, and it is caused by an inversion, or inward rolling, of the foot. This injury can happen while playing sports, or it can be caused by something as simple as stepping into a hole or off a step or curb. These sprains are graded from one to three; grade one is minor, and grade three is severe with ligament damage.

Things You'll Need

• Razor (optional)
• Foam pre-wrap
• Athletic tape

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Instructions

• 1

  Shave the affected ankle, if necessary, to a few inches up the leg. A foam pre-wrap may be used in place of shaving if preferred.

• 2

  Starting at the front of the ankle, place the pre-wrap around the ankle. When back around to the front, wrap across the top of the foot and then underneath.

• 3

  As the wrap comes back up across the front of the ankle, tear it and smooth it down.

• 4

  Make sure the toes are flexed upward and the ankle is slightly inverted. Use the athletic tape now to follow the same path on top of the foam wrap. When at the end of the pre-wrap, continue around two to three more times before tearing the tape and securing.

• 5

  Elevate the ankle above the level of the heart, and apply ice to reduce swelling.