Traditionally, physiotherapists use taping techniques to stabilize joints. We often tape wrists and ankles, providing extra support to allow athletes to return to participation without pain and with a little more confidence.
More recently, therapists have been using various types of tape not just to stabilize a joint, but to give postural feedback, to help diagnose problems and to unload overused structures to help provide function to that joint or area of the body. If taping is useful and has to be utilized long-term we will often investigate the practicality of a brace or orthotics. However in cases where taping may be used for a short period while the body’s structures and muscles adapt and strengthen, using the treatment being prescribed by the therapist.