: To investigate the effect of rigid ankle tape on functional performance, self-efficacy and
perceived stability, confidence and reassurance during functional tasks in participants with functional
ankle instability.
Design: Clinical measurement, crossover design.
Methods: Participants (n ¼ 25) with functional ankle instability (Cumberland Ankle Instability
Score < 25) were recruited from university students and sporting clubs. Participants performed five
functional tests with and without the ankle taped. The tests were: figure-8 hopping test, hopping
obstacle course, star excursion balance test (SEBT), single-leg stance and stair descent test. Secondary
outcome measures were self-efficacy and perception measures.
Results: Rigid tape significantly decreased the stair descent time by 4% (p ¼ 0.014), but had no effect on
performance in the other tests. Self-efficacy increased significantly (p < 0.001). Perceived stability,
confidence and reassurance also increased with the ankle taped (p < 0.05) during the stair and two
hopping tasks, but not during the SEBT or single-leg stance test.
Conclusion: Although taping the ankle did not affect performance, except to improve stair descent, it
increased self-efficacy and perceived confidence in dynamic tasks. These findings suggest that taping
may reduce apprehension without affecting functional performance in those with functional ankle
instability and permit continued physical activity or sport participation.