Post on 17-Dec-2015
Fundamentals of Taping
Why do ATC’s tape?
Protective tape is used to prevent injuries and to keep existing injuries from getting worse
Must be applied only if its use is indicated
Indications for Applying Tape
To provide support and stability After a joint injury, ligaments may be overstretched
and loose. Taping improves stabilityTo provide immediate first aid
Usually to hold a bandage in placeTo secure a pad or brace
Keeps any pads or braces in place or from coming loose
Indications for Applying Tape
To prevent injury Restricts certain movements so injuries don’t occur
To restrict the angle of pull Helps reduce stress on muscles or tendons and
prevent further injury
To provide psychological assistance Placebo effect
Proper Use of Tape
Linen tape-most common tape Varies in width (1.5 in is most common) Can be torn by hand
Elastic tape-can return to its original length after being stretched Has extra adhesive on one side and usually has to
be cut with scissors Used when material of high strength is desired or
when the tape ends need to pull toward one another
Proper Use of Tape
Hybrid tape-combo of linen and elastic tape Can often be torn by hand Often used to surround strips of linen tape that have
been applied to muscles and joints that must expand, contract, or bend
Moleskin-thick tape with a lot of adhesive on one side Sticks well to skin and is very strong
Tape Handling
The smoothness and efficiency with which tape is applied depends on how proficient the ATC is at tape handling
Learn to tear tape! Very importantProper winding refers to applying individual
strips of tape rather than a continuous length of tape Builds tension quickly and is likely to cut off
circulation
Tape Handling
Overlap refers to applying strips of tape so that half the strip from one piece is covered by the next piece applied By not overlapping, ATC runs the risk of gapping and
creating areas of friction and irritation
Must be applied to follow the natural contour of the body area No wrinkles!
Skin Prep
Skin must be washed and dried prior to applying tape
Any hair in the taping area should be removed Tape adhesive can be applied. Usually a spray
and it just increases the stickiness of the skinPre-wrap is applied (helps prevent irritation of
skin and protect hair if person did not remove the hair)
Lubricated pads may be applied if area is prone to friction and blisters