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Arch Supports - Custom Molded And Fitted
Prevents Knee & Ankle (Joints) Injuries

Neutral                   Joint Locked
Looking from Front to Back

For additional information about the benefits of arch supports read the chapter on 
"Joint Injuries" in the "Rider Solutions" section of our library.  

The body has two balance control systems, the first is the voluntary and the second is the involuntary.  The voluntary control system is controlled by the conscious mind where the involuntary system is controlled by the unconscious mind.  In this chapter we will be dealing with the second or the involuntary balance control system controlled by the unconscious mind.  Now, keep this in mind.  The conscious mind does not have any awareness of nor does it have any control of the unconscious mind’s automatic involuntary balance controlling system.  So, when some questions are asked you will not be able to answer them correctly.  The involuntary balance control system is completely automatic and fully operates without hesitation.  An example of the involuntary balance system would be when you are walking, accidentally trip, before conscious awareness, the automatic balancing system has made the correcting impute in the involuntary balancing system and the body has made an automatic recovery.  Foot pronation is the leading problem that causes this automatic system to malfunction.  And with foot pronation riding and raci41 at or near threshold speeds places you in a high probably of having an accident and injury.  Now, with this back ground information in place let’s continue the discussion on the body’s automatic controlling balancing system. 

What do you know about preventing riding and raci41 joint injuries? Do you practice injury prevention? Did you know that most joint injuries happen from causes that you may not be aware of, such as, 95% of all knee and ankle joint injuries have an underlying cause of flat feet (foot pronation). And over 92% of all low back injuries have the same underlying cause - flat feet. And the majority of low back injuries are located in the joint space known as the disc. Fallen arches also directly related to many other major joint problems such as neck, shoulder, elbow, and wrist conditions, as well. And you may not also be aware of the fact that by simply custom molding and fitting a good pair of arch supports to the feet correct the underlying joint injuries and/or problems.

Of all the surgeries joint surgery is one of the most expensive. Not to mention that most joint injuries end careers before they get a chance to start. Yes, I have had great success with knees, ankles, shoulders, elbows, wrists, and many other joint injuries or conditions. As an example my office records show that over 95% of all knee injuries that I have treated have recovered in a much shorter time period, more successfully back to 100% without drugs or surgery and avoided the residual surgical impairments.
Arch Support Quiz
Take the short quiz below and see how well you do. Circle your answers.
  1. C.Ti. knee braces, Rage knee braces, and All-Sports Dynamic's ankle braces offer good joint protection while riding and racing?  Yes    No
  2. Knee and ankle braces are not the only methods to prevent knee injuries?  Yes    No
  3. One cause of knee and ankle injuries is by wearing poorly fitted or worn-out boots?  Yes    No
  4. A major underlying cause of most joint injuries, including knee and ankle, come from a foot condition known as "Flat Feet" (foot pronation)?  Yes    No
  5. Custom molded and fitted arch supports prevent, not only knee and ankle joint lock injuries, but most all other joints within the body?  Yes    No
  6. The majority of the motocross riders are still unaware of all the additional raci41 benefits found from wearing custom molded arch supports?  Yes   No
  7. Custom molded and fitted arch supports improve joint range of motion, which improves the biomechanical advantages of the body or its ability to do more work with less effort?  Yes    No
  8. Custom molded and fitted arch supports held prevent and protect the majority of joints within the body by preventing a condition known as "Joint Locking"?  Yes    No
  9. Custom molded and fitted arch supports improve your mental perception, as well as your voluntary and reflexive muscle reactive times by approximately 25%?  Yes    No

How did you do? If you answered each question with a Yes  you scored 100%.

Many riders ask me if I can help them over come their body’s problems that occur while riding and raci41. I tell them that I have has very good success with almost all rider body problems but what I have to do first, in each case, is to sit down with them, discuss the problem, performed the necessary examinations and test treatments to see if their problem is of the kind that I can help. If I can help them, I do. And I do it without drugs or surgery. And, at the same time, I teach the riders and their families how to implement and manage preventive measures rather than having to experience them first. Any and all protective measures and gear must be utilized if you are going to truly enjoy and have fun while ride and race. In all cases of injury "prevent is the single best solution". We have a excellent collection of "Rider Problems" and their solutions as well as "Rider Solutions", which offers the most current and up-dated wealth of knowledge for fixing and prevention rider problems found in riding and raci41.

The riders and I both agree that although Hi-Tech braces help prevent injuries, knee and ankle injuries still occur. Let's take a look at another insight and solution.

In the 70's bikes broke before the riders following a major get-off. Don't get me wrong, riders got hurt then too, but not at the much higher level of the 90's. Knee and ankle injuries in the 90's are a different story. The simple story of the 90's is that the bikes are built tough. Now, most of the time, following a major get-off, the rider breaks first. And this problem is getting worse.

Today, because the occurrence of injuries is very high and still growing I always tell the riders; "Wear all of your protective gear all the time." And riders will tell you that 20-20 hindsight is a hard teacher. 20-20 foresight on the other hand, not only helps to prevent injuries, but teaches us to learn and resolve from our past injury causing mistakes, as well.

Too many times injuries, such as knee and ankle, have blocked rider advancements in his career or success opportunities. Constantly working towards the elimination of all injury in our sport is the single best solution.
If you know and understand the how's and why surrounding knee and ankle causing injuries then you can find solutions. In my pursuit to eliminate knee and ankle injuries with protective gear one product stood out. This product has constantly out performs the others.  But when used with the others, injuries seldom, if ever, happen. In motocross the full length "Power Soles Plus" success record speaks for itself. Power Soles Plus are the prescription arch support product that most top riders wear. 'But how can arch supports prevent knee and ankle injuries, you might ask? Let's take a closer look!

"Power Soles Plus" is a product of Foot Levelers Inc., an orthopedic orthotic appliance company in Roanoke, VA. Over the course of my last nine years on the MX raci41 circuit they has saved literally hundreds of riders from injuries, and not just knees or ankles.  And because of their success record I recommend that you purchase them before knee and ankle braces.

To date "Power Soles Plus" has taken a large bite out of motocross injuries including; knees and ankles. So, let's get a clear picture of just how they work. The condition that predisposes riders to knee, ankle, and other injuries is called foot pronation (flat feet). Foot pronation occurs when the arch of the foot falls touching the ground. And in turn causes the front part of the foot to flare outward. 'Both the foot's fallen arch and outward flare combine to create foot pronation. Foot pronation does two things to the rider 5 legs. First, it places rotational and bending stress load on the ankle and knee joints (dia. 1).  And second, while in motion, causes muscle, ligament, and bone structure system to be unstable and out of balance. Let's talk about each individually.

 Neutral Positioned Knee - Joint Locked Knee & Ankle  

          A                             B      

Diagram 1 shows two knee and ankle joint relationships.  Figure A is a neutral positioned knee and figure B is a knee and ankle predisposed to knee joint lock tearing by a fallen arch.  Please note that this knee and ankle predisposing factor in figure B is a fallen arch (flat foot).  This condition is more commonly known as foot pronation.


                            Normal Weight Bearing Arches

Note that the arrows, in the diagram above, shows the directions of good foot postural placement that positions the feet, ankles, knees, and all the other joints throughout the body in a neutral joint angle, which allows their greatest mechanical advantage and absorption and management of high stress load impacts without injury.  

Foot pronation has two mal-positioned joint relationships:
1. a Fallen Arch (flat)
2. and a Outward Foot Flare

Foot Pronation - Note Fallen Arches & Foot Flare in Weight Bearing
and Joint Locking of ankles

Note the arrows, in this diagram, shows the directions of movement that position the feet in their greatest mal-placements, causing the feet, ankles, knees, and all the other joints throughout the body to experience high stressing joint locking angles.  And, due to this arch mal-positioning all the body joints, especially the knees and ankle, are positioned in their least mechanical advantage postures and can only absorb and manage low stress load impacts before sustaining an injury.  

When pronation occurs it brings joint locking of other joints into play.  Pronation brings the ankle and knee and many other joints into a joint mal-positioned relationship.  It is this mal-positioning relationship that predisposed the ankle and knee to low force tearing and breaking.  But remember I had seen shoulders, elbows, necks, low backs, and hip joints come out of joint lock by both taping and custom molded arch supports.  I have found by measurement that taping only provides about 1/2 the supports properties that the custom arch supports provides.
 
So, let's discuss the inherent danger that foot pronation (Joint Locking) brings by the reduction or loss of knee and ankle joint range of motion.
Joint Locking
Joint locking occurs when a joint's, such as the knee or ankle joint, range of motion is reduced or eliminated, as seen by foot pronation. The normal range of motion of any joint helps manage and absorb large impacts of forces. When that range of motion is reduced and/or eliminated, small impact forces can produce enormous joint injuries. That is to say, any joint, while predisposed to joint locking, is completely unable to manage or absorb even small impact forces.  So consequently, both tearing and breaking will injure that joint or joints.
Martial Arts
I have studied martial arts since 1968.  I now teach the arts of healing to the Masters in a world wide martial arts program.  But let me say this about Martial Arts and Joint Locking.  In Martial Arts, the techniques of "Joint Locking" are completely devastating to your opponent.  If you have seen any of Steven Segal's movies, you have seen joint locking and how effective it is in completely controlling an opponent up to breaking bones and joints.  I assure you that the joint locking techniques you have seen in his movies are very real.  It is only after you have experienced their forcefulness that you start to appreciate the completely unawareness of their power and devastation.  When I was first introduced to joint locking techniques - they looked "Magical".  A very small person literally through around and over came a very large individual, with little to no effort.  So, when you first see it you may think, "No way", until you become the demo.  Then you will know the power of "Joint Locking".

Here is another interesting point about foot pronation joint locking. The knee or ankle can literally withstand hundreds of pounds of impact forces without injury.  But while in joint locking mal-positioning, even the smallest amounts of impact forces can cause massive degrees of irreversible joint injury.

The joint from a neutral or zero (range of motion) angle displays a full range of motion and can manage and absorb impact forces. This automatic protective method has been designed into our body. Without it we usually get hurt. And with the reduction of the joint's full range of motion to manage impact forces, even small degrees of impact force are quickly turned into joint injuries.  The "Power Soles Plus" corrects foot pronation and return the knee, ankle, and all joint in the body to their neutral range of motion.  And with the neutral range of motion returned, knee and ankle joint injuries seldom, if ever, occur. 

I'm not saying to not wear knee and ankle braces.  I believe that they are very useful and necessary.  But what I am saying is that the three, knee braces, ankle braces, and custom molded arch supports provide a complete profile of joint protection.

Remember this about knee and ankle braces. Even the best knee or ankle braces will not prevent joint-locking injuries to the knees or ankles.
More Riding Problems From "Foot Pronation"
Another problem caused by foot pronation is join and body instability and loss of balance in the muscles, ligament, and bone systems. There are two types of body muscle stability and control within the body.  One is while you are resting (not moving). And the other is while you are moving (in motion).  Resting and moving body muscle stabilities and their control mechanisms allow movement without distortion. The body has special muscle-joint balancing mechanisms and programs built within its nervous system to manage and coordinate musculoskeleto movements during resting and moving demands placed on the body.
Resting Muscle & Joint Stabilities
In resting stability and control, muscles work together in small groups, about a single joint, to keep and maintain that joint's stability through its range of motion. The body as a whole however, remains at rest.

I have only found two events that will make resting muscles weak. First, a direct blow into and injuring that muscle group. And second, a pinched spinal nerve that supplies that muscle group with biological electrical energy.  Bike falls and poorly fitted helmets cause muscle bruising and spinal whiplash conditions.  Either condition causes resting and moving instabilities.  As an example, poorly fitted helmets, cause repetitive pounding spinal stress and muscle weakness throughout the body.  Please read the "Helmets" in the "Safety Gear" section in our Library.

This repetitive pounding spinal stress can produce many neurological dysfunction including both resting and moving muscle instabilities.  But let's take a look at the moving instabilities next.
Moving Muscle & Joint Stabilities
A lot of rider joint and muscle problems come from moving instabilities. That is to say, a muscle group may be normal when tested under resting conditions, but be very weak when test under moving stability. So, let's take a look at how moving stability differs from resting stability.
Car Tire Balancing
Like the automobile's tire balance and front-end alignment the body must maintain total control, stability, and alignment over its joint and muscle while moving. And like the automobile tires that come in contact with the surface, it's the feet for our body. Located in our feet are neurological reflexes that, when stimulated, maintain massive groups of muscle and joint control, balance, and stability during motion. These neurological reflexes are called Gait Reflexes. The automobile has only four wheels where the body has 630 muscles that must work together around hundreds of joints to produce smooth and balanced movement. And without gait reflex stimulation during movement the body experiences a loss in joint and muscle control, balance, and stability. Let's see how this works.

When the body is at rest and you move a single joint, normally the associated muscles groups move through their range of motion placing no distortion upon that joint. Likewise this action places no distortion upon any other part of the body. However, when the entire body is in motion it is the function of the gait reflexes to maintain torsion. The gait reflexes are able to maintain smooth and balanced musculoskeleto torsion through all types of directional massive body movements, only if they are stimulated. Without normal foot posture their stimulation is bypassed and the body experiences structural distortion. Foot pronation causes the loss of normal gait reflex stimulation. Therefore, foot pronation is the underlying cause of moving instability, it causes strong muscles to become weak during movement, and this over stresses joints and other muscles.

Also, muscles, neurologically out-of-balance, can cause muscle pump-up and premature muscle fatiguing when the normal neurological stimulating mechanisms are inhabited through foot pronation.  When the normal muscle pumping actions are lessened or eliminated, muscle congestion quickly on-sets.  This is followed by muscle pre-maturing fatiguing and failure.  And, an examination by doctors who don't know to look for this problem will say that there is nothing wrong.  But - if you are the individual with this problem you know that what they are saying is not true. I suggest that you see a Chiropractor and ask him or her to perform the examinations for custom molded arch supports. 
More Riding Problems From "Foot Pronation"
Another major problem that surfaces from foot pronation is chronic sprains and strains with residual knee, lower leg, ankle, and foot swelling. The loss of the gait reflex stimulation (neurological baro-receptors) in that foot causes the loss of the great blood and body fluid muscle pumping return system found in the legs. Major leg muscle groups responsible for returning of all blood and body fluids to the heart, cease to work properly. The result from this muscle-joint distortion is chronic swelling that you can't get rid of. Let's look at distortion and some of the problems it causes in motocross. And how to over come it.

And during the growth spurts of the riders between the ages of 12 to 20 during body and bone elongation the most common bone fractures in rider who do not wearing custom molded arch supports involve one or both of the bones in the distal lower leg (tibia and fibula).

 
Note the joint locking during foot inversion and resulting bone fracture
Usually the rider will have experienced several ankle sprains & sprains
prior to this fracture
The combined treatment of Chiropractic care including electromagnetic therapeutics and arch supports application heal these fractures in just a few days.  I know that this may be hard for your to believe because of your association with the classical healing times established by the drug users or medical profession.  For more on this topic read the "Diapulse" chapter in "Electromagnetic Therapies" located in the "Rider Health Care Solutions" and read the section of "New Bone and Muscle Growth & Probable Injuries" in the "Training" chapter in the "Physical Training And Development" section in the library.  Let's continue with balancing the body through the feet.

And like the automobile when its tires and front end are out of balance, distortion can prematurely wear out any muscle or joint in the body. 'But what kind of body structure problems will a rider experience?

The loss of gait reflex stimulation can cause literally hundreds of rider problems, such as, forearm pump-up, neck pain, shoulder muscle and joint pain, and painful range of motion to any joint, painful arm muscle and restricted or loss of joint range of motion. It is responsible for low back pain and leg muscle weakness, cramping, as well as, predisposing the knee and/or ankle to injury. And chronic foot, ankle, leg and/or knee swelling. And guess what condition is found to be the most probable underlying cause of the above? That's right, "Foot Pronation."

Neutral Positioned Ankle-Foot Relationships

This view is looking from behind the individual, towards the front.  Numbers 1 & 2 show the neutral joint angle and relationship between the foot and ankle.  The Achilles tendon is in a straight line.  Next, let's look at an individual with bilateral foot pronation.

   Bilateral Foot Pronation & Joint Locking
Looking from behind the Individual towards their front

Numbers 1 & 2 show the curved angles of the Achilles tendon and relationship between the foot and ankle indicating that they are in predisposed joint locked conditions. 

This is how it looks when looking from behind

I still can remember, on numerous occasions, the rider or his family commenting; "Why are you taping his/her arches, his/her problem is in his shoulder." Or they would say; "The problem is in his wrist, knee, or ankle and/or in his/her low back, shoulder, or elbow. Why are you taping up his/her arches?"  Well, now you know why - foot pronation!  And now you know the many problems it causes.  And now you know how simple it is to eliminate.  So, let's find out what the riders say.

All the riders I know who wear the arch supports called, "Power Soles Plus," always make comments like; not only do they help eliminate my knee and ankle problems and improve my riding balance and stability, but they improve my ability the ride and race faster.

Like the job of the bike's mechanic, you can examine the rider to find and eliminate problems before they surface on the track. The examination and test is not hard to do. In fact, most families have a lot of fun in doing them. So, here is the next step. Let's learn how to find and eliminate the bad guy; "Foot Pronation" and avoid all the rider problems that could have been.

The Examination
The examinations are simple.  The examinations start by having the rider take off his/her shoes and socks and stand barefoot facing you.  First, check to see if there is

1. Equal foot flare (normal) - does one or both feet flare out in a foot pronation angle
2. Is either arch fallen or flat

Dia. #4 - Fallen Arches and Foot Flare

Second, look to see if each arch has retained a normal height above the floor or has it has fallen towards or touches the surface.

Third, walk behind and view the rider's feet. Look at his heels and feet to see if pronation exist on one or both of his feet (diagram 5).

Dia. #5 - Both Feet Are Pronated

If you suspect or discover foot pronation during this visual examination then the next step is to perform a very simple taping test. This test will either confirm or deny foot pronation.

The Arch Taping Test     

             Outside Right Foot                   Outside Right Foot                  Inside Right Foot 
                                                                     Dia. #6
The In-Office Taping Test
Taping your arches is single best actual method to determine if you would benefit from custom molded arch supports.  But, remember that taping the arches will only be 1/2 as effective as the actual molded arch supports. The taping procedure for the arches is fairly easy and after a few actual practice tapings most can tape their own feet with no difficulty.  I perform two arch taping test.  The first taping test is done in my office to determine if they produce the beneficial responses I expect to see.  Routinely I see the following improvements with taped arches:
1. Improved muscle strength in both single groups and interacting moving groups.
2. The tape feels like band of circular support - not a constriction or loss in range of motion.
3. Weight loads shift to the outside borders of the foot and away from the inside borders.
4. And a uniform increase and balance in total body muscle strength and is noted by an increase in the calf muscles.  The individual can actually jump a lot higher with the tape properly on the arches.  
5. Walking with the arches taped, for the first time, feels new and different but more balance, stability and control of actual body movements and actions.  If these noted results are present from the taping I move on to the actual riding test. 

Some of the other noted changes the rider observes routinely include:
1. Less pain to an injured area, such as a knee, ankle, shoulder, or wrist joint.
2. Knees, ankles, shoulders, low back, neck feel stronger, balanced, and more secure.
3. A greater range of motion to an injured area with very little to no pain.
The Practice Track Riding Taping Test
The entire riding tape test is recorded with a video camera.  The first part of the test is done without tape on the rider's arches.  First, I have him/her perform several of our raci41 drills.  The second part is cornering.  We time, measure, and determine the rider's "Ease of Performance", "Entry and Exit speeds", and the rider's "Perception Level".  All of this equates down to his/her mental awareness levels and actual riding skill levels in his/her performance abilities. 

And I usually find the following:
1. Riders with less effort, greater flexibility and mechanical advantage, and noticeable control, balance, and stability.
2. The speeds through the corners improves by approximately 25% within no awareness of this increase in speed through the rider's perception abilities.  As, an example of this would be if initially the rider exited the corner at 20 mph then following the arch taping procedure the rider would exit the corner at 25 mph.  In fact, he/she sometimes makes the comment, "It feels the same" but most generally they say, "It feels like I'm going slower".  The arch taping changes their sense and awareness of perception. The tape (through a massive bed of grade 3 baro neurological receptors located in the feet)  automatically improvement in the co-ordination of massive muscle movements, interactions, and uniform balancing strength.

When these two test are completed I prescribe and mold the rider for these custom molded arch.  
You do not have to purchase the arch supports if you don't want to.  And you can tape your arches everytime before you rider or race.  That is completely up to you.  But if you notice the improvements from just taping your arches you will really notice the benefit with the actual arch supportive produces.  I have always seen riders perform way above his/her standards with the riding arch tape test.
Taping The Arches
You will need the following equipment to tape your arches.  A roll of 1 2" athletic tape (upper right hand side of picture), a roll of underwrap (upper left hand side of picture), and a tape knife (lower center of picture). 


Diagram #7

In the above diagram the tape recommended is 1.5 inch white athletic tape.  This type of tape offers support.  The 2" wide underwrap is used so that the individuals' hair on his/her foot is not pulled off while riding or racing, and when the tape is cut off.  But remember that the use of underwrap reduces the support value of the tape by 50%.

The supply company where I purchase my athletic supplies is:
School Health
865 Muirfield Dr.
Hanover Park, IL 60103
800-323-1305 
Learning The Taping Land marks
Note the blue line in the center top portion of diagram 8-A just above the rear black line border.  This blue line is also just visible in diagram 8-B.  This line is better

Diagram 8-A                                       Diagram 8-B                


Diagram 8-C                        Diagram 8-D     
           
seen in diagram 8-C and diagram 8-D.  This blue line represents the anterior longitudinal ligament, which when the foot is lifted up (foot flexion) this ligament flexes outwardly (diagram 8-D).  Note that just above the rear black line border this ligament does not flexed forwardly.  But just pasted this area the ligament does flex outwardly.  Pay careful attention - You must never tape cross the outward flexion area of this ligament. This point outward flexion of the anterior longitudinal ligament is a reference point in the determination the rear black line border.  The rear black line board for taping must always be ahead of this outward flexed area of the anterior longitudinal ligament.  Let's continue with the land marks for taping the arches.

The red dots on the big toe and baby toe mark's the center of their joints.  Do not tape over these joints.  And remember in this method of taping the arches you will never tape over or across any joints.  In this method you will only tape along and inside the black line borders of the diagrams above.  

You will apply two layers of tape.  Each layer will be composed of two strips of 1 1/2" wide athletic tape.  Both strips of the first layer will start at the red line border (diagram 8-B) (this border is located at the top inside area of the foot) and end (tear off) at the outside black line border (Diagram 8-A).  Because these first two stripes over lap themselves this taping connection is called an "Overlapping Seam".

The two strips of 1 1/2" wide tape in the second layer will start at the outside black line border (Diagram 8-A) and loop around one time and end at the same outside black line border (diagram 8-A) where they started.  Because these two stripes do not overlap but rather loop, this connection is called a "Looping Seam"

Note that both layers of tape lift the arches up as the tape strips are applied to the foot.
This arch lifting technique supports the arches so that when the foot is under standing pressure the arches do not pronate.
Mechanical Advantage In Joint Range Of Motion
Mechanical advantage means to do the same or more work with less effort or easier because of the principles of leverage.  In biomechanics each joint has and produces leverage with its "Range of Motion".  That is to say that the greater the range of motion in a joints means it has greater mechanical advantage.  In fact, range of motion of each joint has a leverage factor placed on it (mechanical advantage).  And as that joint's range of motion increases so does the leverage factor. What this means to you as a rider or racer is that you can ride easier for a longer period of time.  This ease of riding and raci41 is especially noticeable in the last half of each moto.  So, remember fact about taping.  When you tape over a joint you are loosing mechanical advantage and causing yourself to work harder each moto.  For this reason I am very hesitant to tape joints.  In this arch taping procedure you are never to tape over any joint.  And therefore you will not lose the great amount of mechanical advantage that is produced by the foot.  In fact, taping the arch with this method improves the mechanical advantage greatly.  But remember this point about taping Vs the molded arch support, the tape only 1/2 as good as the actual  molded arch support. 
Chiropractic Care Increases Joint Range Of Motion
And while we are discussing joints, ranges of motion, and mechanical advantage may I add that one of the greatest advantages in trackside Chiropractic care is the tremendous increase in the total overall joint range of motion throughout the body and consequently the great increase in that individuals' mechanical advantage to perform.  So, now that you know not to tape or restrict joints and to get trackside Chiropractic care, let's continue with the arch taping procedure.

What we are going to do next is to:
1. Step-1, Application of the Underwrap
2. Step-2, Application of the "First Layer"
3. Step-3, Application of the "Second Layer"

Step-1 Application of the Underwrap (Not Always Necessary)
This step is not always necessary as you can tape the feel without this step.  This step is to only protect the hair on the foot from being removed with the tape is removed.  And using underwrap reduced the tape support factor by 50%.  So if you need more support out of the tape and do not care about pulling the hair from the foot you may omit this step.

Start the 2" wide underwrap at the inside red line border ( top inside foot) and tape outwardly across the top of the foot, passing around the outside black line border and continuing on going under the foot and back up again passing around the inside arch and up to the red line border again.  At this point still continue the underwrap application but start working the underwrap back towards the rear black line border as you continue to wrap one more full overlap.  When you complete this second overlap tear the underwrap off when it reaches at the outside black line border edge.


Diagram #9

At this point the underwrap application is completed and now you are ready to start the first stripe of the first layer.

Step-2, The application of the First Layer


Diagram #10

Application of the First Stripe
Start the 1 1/2" wide athletic tape at the  top inside red line border near the big toe and apply outwardly towards the outside of the foot near the baby toe (diagram #10).  Continue on around and under the outside of the foot coming up and around the inside of the foot pass the red line border near the big toe again (diagram #11).  Continue the tape across the top of the foot to the outside black line border near the baby toe again where the tape is cut along the black line (red arrow in diagram #12).


Diagram #11                                                Diagram #12    
Diagram #13 shows the completion of the first strip of tape in the first layer.  Note the dotted black line that runs from the inside to the outside.  This dotted line divides the stripe of tape in half and marks the distal application border of the second stripe of tape in the first layer.


Diagram #13

Application of the Second Stripe
The application of the Second Stripe of tape for the first layer, like with the first stripe, starts at the inside top red line border and is applied along the black dotted line outwardly across the top of the foot towards the outside border (diagram #14).  The tape continues under the foot and back up and around the inside edge of the foot (diagram #15).  Continue the tape across the top of the foot to the outside black line border where it is cut along the black line (diagram #16).  This completes the second stripe of the first layer.              


Diagram #14                        Diagram #15                               Diagram #16

Step-3, Application of the Second Layer
Application of the First Stripe of the Second Layer
The application of the first stripe of the second layer appears in diagrams 17, 18, & 19.     


Diagram #17                             Diagram #18                          Diagram #19  

Start the tape at the outside black line border (diagram #17) near the baby toe and go under the foot towards in inside and come up an around the inside edge near the big toe (diagram #18).  Continue taping across the top of the foot outwardly towards the outside black line border where the tape is cut (diagram #19).

Application of the Second Stripe of the Second Layer
Start the second stripe 1/2 the way in of the first stripe (as in dig. 14, 15, &16) at the outside black line border (diagram #20 below).  Go under the foot towards the inside edge and then come up and around the inside foot (diagram #21).  Continue the tape across the top of the foot and to the outside black line border where it is cut along the black line (diagram #22).               


Diagram #20                           Diagram #21                           Diagram #22  
      
Diagram #23 below shows the right foot as it looks with the arch taping procedure completed.  Repeat this taping procedure, in the opposite directions, for taping the arch of the left foot.


Diagram #23
I know of many ways for taping the arches to remove foot pronation, but none of them can perform against the one illustrated above.  I have tested all of them but because of the high stress loads and full range of motion demands placed on the foot in motocross and Supercross raci41 I have found that only the above taping procedure to be the most effective. Also, I have tested different tape widths including, 1/2", 1", and 2" but the 1.5" athletic tape works the better.

How tight should the tape be?
Taping is an art form in itself. The tape should be free of wrinkles as it contours the arch. Wrap the tape so that it is neither too tight or loose. Never apply the tape tight enough to restrict or cut-off blood flow and circulation. With practice you will get the feel of how tight to tape the arches.  But remember this, when you have finished the taping, it needs to feel comfortable to the rider while he/she is sitting, standing, and riding. If it is to tight, re-tape it immediately allowing a little more free-play. 

What I use to determine the tape's correct tightness is by running my index finger into the free-play margin area between the tape and the underside of the foot from the front towards the back.  If my index finger fits snug but not tight the tape tightness is close.  The next step is to have the rider test it while standing.  If he/she thinks that it is still just a little too tight I run the tape knife handle in between the tape and the underside of the foot and twist it around, which stretches the tape just a little and allows a slight decrease in tape tightness.

Discovering that the tape is to tight during the race is, to late to make any corrections. If you or the rider are not sure allow some time to walk around and even perform an actual riding test on the bike with your gear on.  Practice the taping procedure while your rider is in practice to work out and fine tune any taping problems.
Placement of the Rider for taping his/her arches
The rider should be in a sitting position, with his/her legs in front of him/her, with the heels resting flat on the table with his/her toes pointed up when taping the arches. Taping the rider's arches are easier when the feet height are the same height as the taper's arms and waist. However, taping can be performed with the rider sitting or lying down on the ground or on the bed of the box van.
Taping Care & Cautions
There are a few final things you should know before ending this chapter on how to tape the arches.  I generally only leave the tape for during practice and both motos.  Very rarely do I leave the tape on any longer than that so let me say this,

"First, never leave the tape on longer than 24 hours as it becomes unsanitary and can irritate the feet.  So, the first rule of taping is, "If for any reason the tape becomes uncomfortable or irritating, remove it immediately.  

Second, if the tape is left on over night, the feet may swell causing the tape to become constrictive and cutting off blood supply into the toes.  Again, if this happens, remove the tape immediately.  And if you are not sure, then remove it before going to bed.  

Third, the tape and its adhesive and glue to the skin so when you go to remove it, the skin tears and the tape is being removed.  What I do to prevent this from happening is to apply WD-40 to the tape and the foot before removal begins.  WD-40 dissolves the tape's adhesive and its bonding attachment to the skin allowing it to be removed a lot easier.   
Let's review a little
What should the rider first notice with the tape on his arches? When he stands he should immediately notice.
1. First that the tape has a supportive feel to it, but that it does not cut-off or restrict circulation to his toes.
2. Second, he should notice that his calf muscles feel instantly stronger and that he can jump higher.  This increase in muscle strength is found throughout his body and not just in his calf muscles.
3. And third, when he walks he will notice a newness or awkward feeling about his movements, at first. These are all indications that the taping is having a beneficial effect on correcting the rider's foot pronation.

If there is any knee or ankle pain before taping the arches ask the rider to place a 10 scale value on it, where 0 = no pain at all and 10 is the worst pain he could possibly imagine.  Following the taping of the arches have the rider stand and walk to test the taping procedure.  The rider should notice that the pain has decreased and have him re-evaluated and rate the 10 scale of pain.  He should also notice that the involved area/s have improved and increased in stability and have increase in muscle strength. If you test muscle groups that move together for moving stability (cross-crawl) you should find that the weak muscle groups now have become much stronger, exhibiting equal and balanced muscle strength and show improved coordination. Leaving the tape on, replacing it every day, for two to three days should show a marked improvement throughout his body, and chronic pain, loss in range of motion, and swelling of the feet, ankles, or knees should decrease or leave.  Caution - If the tape bothers the rider for any reason, remove it.

I have had some riders and/or their family members ask me, "Why should I buy the arch supports when the tape works just as well?" I tell them, "That's just it, the tape is not any where near as good as the arch supports.  In fact, the tape is only about 50% as good as the actual molded arch support."  Let me explain.  In my accelerated therapeutic treatment and rehabilitation program of broken bones, both the examination and test results repeatedly show very similar measurable facts. 

1. First, we had the rider stand, using his crutches, with the cast removed, and place the broken leg on a bathroom scales. 
2. Second, we had the rider increase the standing weight load to the broken leg until he reached his pain threshold level. We noted and recorded the indicated poundage. 3. Third, we taped the arch of the broken leg and repeated the bathroom scale weight load test. And again, we noted and recorded the indicated poundage. 
4. Fourth, we removed the tape and placed the Power Soles Plus on top of the bathroom scales. 
5. And fifth, we had the rider place the foot of his broken leg on top of this prescription arch support and again we repeated the bathroom scale broken leg bone weight load test, noting and recording the indicated poundage.
Measured Findings And Improvements
Out of eight similar transverse fractures of the distal tibia-fibula the measured findings were extremely revealing. All bathroom scale standing weight loads test were made seven days following the fracture. The recorded data was as follows:
1. The initial standing weight bearing (no cast, no tape, no arch support) to a point of pain threshold at 20 lbs on a scale.
2. Standing applying weight to the scale to an identical point of pain threshold but this time with tape applied to the arch equal 40 lbs.
3. Standing weight poundage while standing on the Power Soles Plus to an identical point of threshold pain was equal to 60 lbs.

The above information shows that although taping the arch benefited the broken leg's stress loads by increasing the standing weight load by 100%. The Power Sole Plus increased the stress load by 200%.

My recommendations, from the above findings, are this. 
1. First, if your raci41 budget doesn't allow for the arch supports at this time, then without question, tape the arches everytime you ride and/or race. 
2. And second, budget for this protective gear.
A second point about the usage of custom molded arch support.  Wearing the arch support is a lot more easier than taping your feet each time you ride or race. Over time taping will eventually irritate the feet and could cause blisters. So by now you may be asking "Where can I be tested for and purchase a pair of custom molded arch supports?"
Most Chiropractic offices provide this service.  But if you are unable to locate one in your area you may call the orthopedic company "Foot Levelers, Inc." at 800-553-4860 (USA) and ask for the address of a doctor near you.
When you are tested for arch supports your initial complaints should show improvements. The doctor's initial objective positive findings and observation should show improvements following the taping if foot pronation in an underlying cause of your problems.  The next step is to get a cast mold impression made of your feet and mailed off to the above orthopedic company.  Power Soles Plus are the ones I now routinely order for all of the motocross riders. However, if you are unsuccessful in finding a doctor's office near you please call or write and I will personally assist you.  Next let's discuss some commonly asked questions about this arch support product.
Fitting them in your shoes?

Yes, the supports will fit in both your race boot and your street shoe.  But I personally recommend one pair for each.  That is to say one pair for our street shoes and one pair for your raci41 boots.  The reason I recommend that you purchase two pain is because of the hygiene problems and frequency of usage.  And, in this way you don't forget to replace them back into your boots following any street usage.  It takes time for your body to tighten up from increased structural stability and dynamically balancing through your body's automatic muscle's movement system.
How long will they last?

The arch supports will last about the same length of time as a pair of street shoes or raci41 boots.  Usually this time period ranges from 6 months to 1 year depending on the frequency of use and the stress loads placed on them.
How often should they be replaced?

The company recommends that rider be re-examined every six months to one year.  When first fitted the body initially improves a lot in structural stability and balance as it tightens up and arch support modifications or replacements are usually necessary. 

If the rider is still growing I recommend that arch support replacements be made after the rider's foot has increased by 1 shoe size.  Now, "Pay careful attention."  During all new body and bone growth I strongly recommend the rider wear custom molded arch supports. This time period in the rider's life usually ranges between 12 to 20 years of age.  Arch supports have show to add control, balance, and stability to the muscles and bones that are weakened by new growth (read our chapter called "Training Chapter" in the "Physical Training & Development" section of the library for more detains on new body and bone growth and how to protect them from injury.  During the rider's growth phases the muscles and bones are very susceptible to injury and fractures due to their elongation. Plus, during this time period I recommends that you have your arch support prescription checked yearly.  Most pro riders buy three to four pair at a time for the year.  And they replace them every time they replace their raci41 boots.  
Are there other benefits from these prescription arch supports?

Yes, within the heel of the Power Soles Plus is a special shock absorbing natural called Sorbothane. Sorbothane can absorb and manage up to 50% of heel impact. That is to say, the striking impact stress load is reduced by 50% before it reaches your feet or ankles. That's like having 12" of suspension in your boot. And, as you know, that makes the difference!

How can I learn more about "Power Soles Plus"?
The company provides us with brochures on "Power Soles Plus". Just ask us for one. Let's sum it up. Foot pronation can and does cause a lot of unnecessary rider problems including irreversible knee and ankle injuries. The examinations and test for foot pronation are simple and easy to do. The corrective procedure is easy and highly successful. Rider problems, both seen and unseen, are eliminated if foot pronation is one of the underlying causes. Rider performance has always improved, as well as their race results. Can you afford not to at least examine and test yourself, or your rider, for foot pronation?
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