Leuko-taping, as described in our previous PTtip video, is a taping technique our therapists use on our patients to relieve pain associated with plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, or shin splints. Specifically, today’s post will focus on how to effectively apply leukotape for shin splints. Shin splints are often felt along the inner edge of the shinbone, and the pain can sometimes arise with the act of running or brisk walking. In our PTtip video, Dr. John Baur, PT, DPT, OCS, CSCS, FAAOMPT demonstrates how to effectively apply leukotape to relieve pain caused by shin splints:
Using Leukotape for Shin Splints PTtip Video
Guidelines When Applying Leukotape for Shin Splints:
- Splint the connective tissue along the shin.
- Create a cross pattern on the shin using two pieces of tape forming an ‘X.’
- To apply: begin with 1 piece of tape, approximate the soft connective tissue along the shin using your left thumb when applying each piece of tape, to help you effectively apply the tape.
- Continue the pattern on your shin just below your first cross pattern.
- Rub the tape to smooth the wrinkles out.
- Leave the leukotape on your shin for a few days.
- Remove the tape very gently while being careful to not injure the skin.
Nutrition Tip
It is a great opportunity to spend time outside and enjoy the warm sunny weather! An important component to maintaining a healthy lifestyle that includes both adequate nutrition and physical activity is eating a variety of nutrient dense foods. With farmers’ market now open, it’s an even better time to try fresh, in-season fruits and vegetables that you may have never tried before!
Other examples of in-season produce are cantaloupe and summer squash. For example, cantaloupe offers a high amount of vitamins A and C and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways such as on its own, blended into a smoothie, or even made into homemade fruit salsa!
Zucchini is a versatile vegetable that supplies a great amount of vitamin C and can be enjoyed in several ways. Just a few examples include homemade zucchini noodles in place of pasta, simply sautéed or grilled on its own as a perfect veggie side dish to a meal, or even sliced and topped with tomato sauce and cheese as mini pizza bites!
Make sure you watch the PTtip video to learn how to effectively apply leukotape for shin splints, and if you have any questions or would like to make an appointment with one of our physical therapists, give us a call today at 1-855-PT-FIRST!
*As a reminder, always discuss any questions or concerns with your physician regarding your own health and dietary needs, as the information written should not replace any medical advice.
References
Produce for Better Health Foundation. (n.d.). Zucchini: Nutrition. Selection. Storage. Retrieved from http://www.fruitsandveggiesmorematters.org/summer-squash
Produce for Better Health Foundation. (n.d.). Cantaloupe: Nutrition. Selection. Storage. Retrieved from http://www.fruitsandveggiesmorematters.org/cantaloupe-nutrition-selection-storage