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