1. Stick to It!
Strapping and taping tape not only treats sports injuries but prevents them as well. By using the proper tape for the right stage of the taping job, athletes get the best in both protection from injury and support of existing injuries. Trainers and sports medical personnel layer each type of tape to provide the right level of protection for joints. The first type of tape for the sports trainer arsenal is the elastic adhesive bandage. The elastic adhesive bandage sticks directly to the skin and provides full coverage of the area. Elastic adhesive bandage has some flexibility which helps it adhere well to body contours and allows some amount of give with swelling or other skin changes. Before applying elastic adhesive bandage use an underwrap bandage. Underwrap is a thin foam material that helps in areas that are sensitive to adhesive.
2. Twist and Shout
The next kind of tape for any trainer locker room supply cabinet is zinc oxide tape. Zinc oxide tape has absolutely no flexibility and provides the stiff support needed for both protection and prevention. Zinc oxide tape goes on after the elastic adhesive bandage, beginning with stirrups under the joint and at the top and bottom of the elastic adhesive tape. Trainers then layer the tape in figure-eights, figure-sixes, horseshoes and lateral heel protection. This stiff tape gives complete coverage and support to areas like ankles and knees that are prone to lateral twists, sprains and dislocations. Because of its inflexibility, zinc oxide tape prevents joints from twisting or over stretching during athletic training and competition.
3. Keep It to Yourself
A third option that in many cases replaces elastic adhesive bandage is cohesive elastic bandage. Cohesive elastic bandage sticks only to itself and not to the skin. This is a great option for athletes who are sensitive to adhesives. Many people find certain bandaging material causes allergic reactions which lead to painful blisters and irritated skin. Many trainers and sports therapist use cohesive bandages almost exclusively to avoid any potential reaction in their players from elastic adhesive. Cohesive elastic bandage also eliminates the need for foam underwrap since nothing sticks to the skin. Cohesive elastic bandage also has some advantages when dealing with a wound underneath a bandage. The cohesive material works well as a fixation bandage to keep wound dressing in place before taping.
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