Plantar Plate Taping – Lesser Toe & Forefoot Support
View our comprehensive video tutorial or follow the step-by-step guide provided below.
Step-By-Step
To help you get the most out of your taping, we’ve developed a comprehensive video tutorial series—filmed and demonstrated by experienced physiotherapists. You can also follow along with our detailed step-by-step written guides provided below.
Please note: The content on this platform is intended for educational purposes only. While our tutorials are presented by qualified professionals, they do not replace personalised medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before applying any taping techniques, and use the information provided at your own discretion.
Objective
To demonstrate a clinical taping technique
designed to reduce strain on the plantar plate of the lesser toes. This method
assists in holding the affected toe in plantar flexion, limiting dorsiflexion
and capsule tension during push-off, and is ideal for cases of plantar plate
irritation or tear.
Materials Required
· GoLevita 38mm Rigid Strapping
Tape (split lengthwise for narrow strips)
· Scissors or tape cutter
1. Identify the Affected Toe
Typically the 2nd or 3rd toe is involved.
Confirm the site of pain by palpating the metatarsophalangeal joint (MTP) and checking for discomfort during gait push-off.
2. Prepare Narrow Tape Strips
Cut the 38mm rigid tape lengthwise to produce narrow, flexible strips suitable for wrapping around small toes without excessive bulk or tension.
3. Loop Tape Around Toe (Lateral Origin)
Begin at the lateral side of the toe. Wrap
over the dorsum and use light to moderate tension to pull the toe down into
plantar flexion.
Anchor the tape onto the plantar surface of the foot, avoiding full circumferential wraps to preserve circulation.
4. Repeat Loop from Medial Origin
Repeat the same process starting from the
medial side of the toe.
This creates even support and reinforces toe positioning during gait propulsion.
5. Secure with Plantar Arch Fixation Strip
Apply a full-width strip transversely across the plantar arch to secure both tape ends.
This prevents slipping or rolling during weight-bearing activity.
Key Notes
• Prevents excessive dorsiflexion of the
lesser toes during the toe-off phase of gait.
• Best applied in early-stage plantar plate
tears or metatarsalgia due to overload.
• Ensure moderate, consistent tension;
over-tightening may compromise toe perfusion.
• Always reassess tape comfort and function during dynamic loading.
