NHS Fife Health and Social Care
Podiatry department
Issued September 2021
Last revised January 2024
Next review
Version V1R3
Advice
The aim of this taping is to limit the upward motion of the big toe. It may help in the early stages of Hallux Rigidus/Limitus.
Make sure your skin is dry and clean before you start the application.
Hallux rigidus/limitus
Steps 1 & 2
Measure a piece of 2.5cm wide (1 inch) sports tape so it can reach from the big toe to just before the heel of the sole of the foot and double this.
Remove the backing paper from the tape and place the centre of the tape on top of the big toe (see picture)
Hallux limitus/rigidus
Step 3
Gently pull the piece of tape, nearest the other foot, with light tension down and along the sole of the foot in line with the big toe. (see picture) Rub the tape for approximately 1 minute to activate the adhesive. Do not pull too tight.
Hallux limitus/rigidus
Step 3
Repeat with the 2nd end of the tape again with light tension overlapping the 1st piece of tape and rub again to allow the tape to stick well.
Be careful not to pull too tight over the big toe. It should not cause a change in colour of the big toe.
When walking the toe should feel as if the movement of the big toe is lightly restricted. Do not pull too tight.
Accessible formats
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You can also find health related information on many topics in an Easy Read format on nhsinform.scot.