Athletic tape is probably something that you have used at some point, whether you are an athlete, fitness enthusiast or someone who is physically active. Athletic tape is a useful tool that has many functions such as compression, stability and support.
However it is advisable to speak with experts before taping an injury, being familiar with the basic techniques of using athletic tape can be useful for many reasons. In this blog we will discuss various taping methods and provide a detailed explanation on applying tape for different uses.
Ankle Taping
People often have many injuries, especially those who play any type of sport. Ankle taping can be used to support or avoid sprains. This is how you do it:
Step 1 : Get the ankle ready. To improve the stickiness of the tape, make sure the skin is clean and dry.
Step 2: To protect the skin, apply a strip of pre-wrap under the ankle bone.
Step 3: Starting from the inside of the foot, wrap the tape around the arch and proceed to wrap it up the ankle. For support, wrap the tape across the ankle diagonally.
Step 4: Keep wrapping around the ankle joint with the tape, overlapping each layer by half of its width. Ensure that the tape is just tight enough to not restrict blood flow.
Wrist Taping:
For sports like weightlifting, gymnastics, or racket sports wrist taping is must because of their repetitive wrist movement, taping the wrist can offer additional support. Here’s how to apply wrist tape:
Step 1: Place the wrist in a neutral posture first. Thoroughly clean and dry the skin to prepare it.
Step 2: Ensuring enough protection coverage, apply a strip of pre-wrap around the wrist.
Step 3: Beginning at the base of the hand, wrap the tape in a figure-eight pattern around the wrist joint. This gives the wrist support in a diagonal manner.
Step 4: Proceed with the tape wrapping around the wrist, ensuring that each layer overlaps by 50% of its whole width. Make sure the tape is not too tight.
Knee Taping
In many sports, knee injuries are common. Taping can offer stability and reduce discomfort. Below is a how to tutorial for applying knee tape:
Step 1: Clean and dry the skin before starting with the knee slightly bent.
Step 2: To protect the skin surrounding the knee, apply a strip of pre-wrap.
Step 3: Wrap the tape around the leg in an upward spiral manner, beginning below the knee joint. The knee will be supported by this.
Step 4: Once the first spiral is finished, make a second spiral that overlaps the first by half of its width. Continue until you get the help you want.
Remember, athletic tape should not be so tight that it restricts blood circulation, but it should provide enough support and stability for the specific activity or injury. If you experience excessive pain, numbness, or tingling while wearing the tape, consult a healthcare professional.Shoulder Taping
Tapping techniques can be very beneficial for injuries or instability of the shoulders. This is how to apply shoulder tape:
Step 1: Begin with the shoulder in a neutral posture and the arm at a 90-degree angle. Dry and clean the skin.
Step 2: For protection, place a piece of pre-wrap around the shoulder region.
Step 3: Apply the hook to the upper arm, somewhat above the bicep region, using a lengthy strip of tape.
Step 4: Start encircling the shoulder joint with the tape, making sure it is in line with the humerus bone’s head. As you wrap, form a figure-eight pattern.
Step 5: Keep wrapping the shoulder with the tape, overlapping each layer by half of its width.
Step 6: Secure the end of the tape with a clip or adhesive spray.
Always keep in mind that these taping techniques are basic guidelines, and it is important to consult with a professional for specific instructions tailored to your individual needs. Additionally, it’s crucial to follow proper removal techniques to avoid any risk of injury.
Conclusion
Sports lovers, athletes, and anybody involved in physical activity can benefit greatly from this blog. Having expertise in taping can help you in avoiding injuries in the long run. But it’s important to keep in mind that athletic tape is not a replacement for medical advice from a specialist. See a medical expert if you are in discomfort or need more advice. They can offer you a suitable treatment plan.
Keep moving, be careful, and have fun taping!