Duct Tape for Marathon Foot Problems
Your feet are arguably your most vital assets in completing a marathon, but lots of mileage can spell disaster for their sensitive skin. Duct tape can provide a simple, inexpensive solution to blisters and other minor running injuries.
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Common Problems
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Marathon running can be tough on the soles of feet. Some common foot problems associated with marathon running include blisters and hot spots. Blisters are fluid-filled pockets that form in the topmost layers of the skin. Hot spots are irritated areas of skin at risk for forming blisters. Proper foot care is an important part of a marathoner's training regimen.
Causes
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Friction and pressure cause most marathon foot problems. Feet can take a beating during the 26.2 miles, and any source of friction quickly takes its toll in the form of a blister or hot spot. A badly fitting shoe or sock or a poorly placed tag can cause painful problems over the course of a long run.
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Prevention
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The American Running and Fitness Association recommends taping the foot before running in order to reduce blister-causing friction. Placing a layer of tape, such as duct tape, over sensitive areas of the foot creates a barrier between the skin's surface and a runner's shoe or sock and provides effective blister prevention.
Treatment
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Taping is also a good way to prevent pain and additional injury if you find yourself nursing a blister or hot spot already. After cleaning the affected area, a clean section of tape or bandage can be placed over the blister or hot spot. This will reduce friction and prevent dirt and moisture from entering the wound. Proper blister care promotes quicker healing.
Duct Tape as a Bandage
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Duct tape is a multipurpose, pressure-sensitive tape made of polyethylene. Developed during World War II, it was originally used as a waterproof sealant for ammunition cases. Today, duct tape has widespread popularity and is readily available. Its waterproof nature, durability and pressure-sensitive nature make it a good choice for blister protection.
Tape Instructions
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When getting ready for race day, runners should develop a strategy for dealing with common marathon foot problems. It is best to allow time to test out tape placement before race day. Taping the foot begins with clean duct tape. Tearing appropriately sized strips, the wrapper should work from heel to toe, overlapping the strips slightly and paying careful attention to avoid wrinkles in the tape and air bubbles under the surface. These will almost certainly cause irritation.
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References
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