When taping an ankle to prevent inversion, how should the heel lock on the lateral side be directed?

• A. Pulled laterally from the calcaneus
• B. Pulled anteriorly from the inferior portion of the calcaneus
• C. Pulled posteriorly from the inferior portion of the calcaneus going toward the Achilles tendon
• D. Pulled medially towards the tibia

Answer: (C)

When taping an ankle to prevent inversion, directing the heel lock on the lateral side by pulling posteriorly from the inferior portion of the calcaneus going toward the Achilles tendon is the correct approach. This technique secures the heel in place by anchoring it laterally and behind, which effectively stabilizes the ankle joint and reduces the risk of inversion injuries.

The rationale behind this method is that pulling the tape in a posterior direction helps to stabilize the subtalar joint and limits lateral motion, which is crucial in preventing sprains related to inversion. By aligning the tape in this manner, it creates a snug fit around the heel and reinforces support for the lateral ligaments of the ankle.

In contrast, other directions such as pulling laterally, anteriorly, or medially would not provide the same level of stability or could potentially allow for more movement in undesirable directions, increasing the risk of an ankle injury during athletic activities. Hence, the posterior pull is vital for maintaining the integrity and stability of the ankle during dynamic movements.