An implantable lead for a medical device includes a lead body having a proximal end and a distal end, an electrical connector coupled to the proximal end of the lead body, an electrode coupled to the distal end of the lead body, and electrically conductive conductor coil extending between the proximal and the distal end of the lead body, the conductor coil wound in a first winding direction under tension. The lead body also includes a plastic ribbon wound around the conductor coil in a second winding direction opposite to the first winding direction without releasing the tension of the conductor coil.