Response profile of fibular repositioning tape on ankle osteokinematics, arthrokinematics, perceived stability and confidence in chronic ankle instability

Background: Preliminary evidence suggests that fibular repositioning tape reduces risk of recurrent ankle injuries, but the underlying mechanism has not been investigated. Objective: To investigate the effects of fibular repositioning tape on ankle osteokinematics, arthrokinematics and perceived stability and confidence in individuals with chronic ankle instability immediately post-tape and following exercise. Design: Cross-sectional repeated measures study. Method: Passive ankle plantarflexion-inversion range of motion, weight-bearing dorsiflexion range of motion, anteroposterior translation, inversion-eversion tilt, and perceived ankle stability and confidence during hopping were assessed before and immediately after the application of fibular repositioning tape and after 15 min of exercise in 14 individuals with chronic ankle instability. Results: Ankle plantarflexion-inversion range of motion, inversion-eversion tilt and anteroposterior translation were reduced immediately after the application of tape compared to pre-tape (p < 0.01). After exercise, total inversion-eversion tilt was significantly lower than pre-tape (p = 0.01), but there were no differences for any of the other mechanical outcomes. Dorsiflexion range of motion did not differ between conditions (p > 0.11). Perceived ankle stability, ankle and task confidence were greater immediately post-tape and post-exercise compared to pre-tape (p < 0.01). Conclusions: Fibular repositioning tape was associated with a restriction of ankle total inversion-eversion tilt and improved perceived ankle stability and confidence both immediately after application of tape and after participating in exercise. This data provides grounds for exploring mechanical and psychological mechanisms underpinning any clinical efficacy of fibular repositioning tape.