Lace bite (or skate bite) is something that is well known in ice and roller skating communities, but is not so well known outside those communities. Lace bite is an inflammation of the tendons (mostly the anterior tibial tendon) on the front of the ankles where the laces are putting pressure on the area. It is such a problem in skating boots due to the inflexible nature of the footwear. Technically, lace bite is called ‘tibialis anterior tendinopathy’.

The pain is noticed on the front of the ankle area and the tendon is often swollen. Skating with the laces done up tightly makes the symptoms worse.

Treatment for Lace Bite

The approach to any tendinopathy is a relative rest. You will need to cut back a little on the amounts of skating or modify the activities to reduce the strains on the tendon. Ice packs on the area after skating will help. Your doctor may prescribe non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication. The lacing of the skate can be adjusted and not thread through the eyelets in the area where the pressure is on the tendon.

The most effective treatment and preventative measure is the use of Lace Bite Gel Padding to cushion the area and reduce the friction or rubbing. This gel padding is on a sleeve that you wear under the sock:

Another option is to use podiatry felt and cut 2 strips of the felt about 2-3 cm wide and 8-10cm long and stick them under the tongue of the skate in a position that would be either side of the painful tendon. This will mean that the pressure on the tendon is reduced.

FootStore.au Products for Lace Bite

For more, see this PodiaPaedia entry on Lace bite.