How to tape heel spur (calcaneal spur)

Looking for a simple way to tape your heel spur? Follow this step-by-step guide to get started.

Heel spurs typically cause sharp pain around the base of the heel, especially during your first steps in the morning or after long periods of standing or sitting. The discomfort often feels stabbing in nature and can make it hard to bear weight on the affected foot.

This condition often develops after repetitive strain or uneven pressure on the foot. Common causes include wearing unsuitable footwear during sport, carrying excess body weight or dealing with biomechanical issues such as flat feet or poor alignment. As this strain builds up, the body may respond by forming calcium deposits at the point where the plantar fascia attaches beneath the heel. Although this is meant to strengthen the affected area, the extra buildup can irritate the surrounding tissues and lead to painful inflammation.

The kinesiology taping technique described below can help ease the strain on your heel, reduce localized pressure, and support the healing process. It gently lifts the skin to allow better circulation, encourages tissue recovery, and can significantly improve comfort when walking or standing.

Self-taping for a heel spur

Tips for a successful heel spur taping treatment:

  • Is the root cause of the pain or discomfort clear?
  • Carefully review the instructions before starting to tape.
  • Choose a tape colour you prefer.
  • Do not stretch the tape at the beginning or end.
  • Firmly rub the tape to activate the adhesive.
  • Are there any contraindications that may prevent taping?
  • The tape typically stays in place for 3 to 7 days.
  • Showering is possible while wearing the tape.
  • Removing the tape is easier with oil.

Preparation for taping a heel spur

Tape

Shape: 1 customised I-strip.
Number of strips: 1.
Technique: Ligament technique (decompression taping applied with maximum/full stretch).

Measuring and cutting the tape

Step

1

  • Place your foot on a small stool and press the heel down. Measure the length of the tape from the bottom of the heel up to the edge of the ankle on both sides.

Applying the tape for a heel spur

Step

2

Step

3

Step

4

  • Tear the backing paper in the middle and fold it back on both sides.
  • Place the centre of the tape under the heel with maximum stretch, guiding it up along both sides of the Achilles tendon.
  • Apply a second strip in the same way, overlapping the first tape by about 1 cm.
  • Finally, gently rub the tape to secure it in place.

After applying this tape, you should feel immediate pain relief. The pressure point is unloaded – similar to the effect of a gel cushion under the heel.

Christina’s advice on taping for heel spurs

In the self-taping instructions, I’ve selected applications that are easy to apply on your own by following the steps provided. To ensure the treatment is carried out safely, I offer practical tips to keep in mind before, during, and after taping. These are based on my many years of clinical experience. If your symptoms persist, always consult a physiotherapist or your GP.

Christina Peter

Physiotherapist and Taping Instructor

Disclaimer:
Please note: we emphasize that the suggested tape applications and the information on our website regarding the possibilities of the Medical Taping Concept are not yet scientifically proven. The statements and examples mentioned are based on years of experience from patients and trained therapists.

Contraindications for not using tape: pregnancy, open wounds, bone fractures, unexplained complaints, allergies and skin conditions, medication use such as blood thinners, thrombosis, and fever.
Always consult a specialist before applying tape in these cases.

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MyCureTape® Art + Classic 3-Roll Combi Pack

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CureTape® Art

CureTape® Sports Extra Sticky

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