Taping is an important part of athletic training and has several benefits. Taping in sports can hold wound dressings in place. It supports recent injuries to prevent further damage, and it can also provide support during athletic activity or rehabilitation for chronic injuries or structural deficiencies. As a result, some athletes and athletic trainers can become overly dependent on taping, but the psychological effects of taping have not yet been documented and, thus, are not yet known.
Step 1
Use the correct width of tape for particular body parts. For example, for fingers and toes use ½ to 1-inch tape; for ankles and wrists use 1 ½-inch tape; for thighs and the back 2 to 3-inch tape.
Step 2
Position the joint, for example, in the position in which it is to be stabilized before taping.
Step 3
Tape distally to proximally, meaning start taping from the farthest point of the body toward the center or midline of the body.
Step 4
Apply tape directly to the skin for maximum support. For anyone with sensitive skin, use a pre-wrap to prevent possible allergic reactions such as contact dermatitis.
Step 5
Avoid taping continuously. Wrap the tape no more than once around the body part, and then tear the tape before continuing to tape that body part.
Step 6
Overlap strips of tape over at least half the width of the previous strip of tape.
Step 7
Be sure the tape is smooth as you lay it on the skin. Allow the tape to fit the natural contours of the body part. If there are wrinkles and gaps in the tape, they can result in skin irritation or blisters.
Step 8
Tape should be snug but not too tight that it cuts off circulation.
References
- "Principles of Athletic Training" (10th Edition); Daniel Arnheim; 2000
- How To Tape an Ankle
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