Taping and Wrapping

Adhesive Tape in the Prevention and Treatment of Athletic Injuries There is no doubt that there are a number of broad and varied uses for athletic adhesive tape, and not all are related to injury prevention or treatment. The best uses are: Temporarily or permanently closing lacerations Prevention blisters on areas of skin exposed to repeated friction. Holding bandages, protective pads, dressings and splinting devices in place. Securing splints for small fractures. Restricting motion to support and eliminate stress on ligaments. Restriction of motion and compression to support muscle, tendon, or stress injuries.

Adhesive Tape in the Prevention and Treatment of Athletic Injuries The basic principle of taping is that all taping is based on common sense combined with a sound understanding of the anatomy and kinesiology of the parts involved and an accurate assessment of the problem and/or injury. It is then easy to understand what must be protected, restricted, or supported.

Adhesive Tape in the Prevention and Treatment of Athletic Injuries Before beginning any taping procedure, put the athlete in a comfortable position that can be maintained until the procedure is finished. Do not allow the athlete to move the extremity during the taping procedure. Position the taping table at a good height for both the athletic trainer and athlete.

Adhesive Tape in the Prevention and Treatment of Athletic Injuries Athletic taping does not prevent injured, although in some cases the taping procedure can decrease the severity of the injury. Injuries are prevented through proper conditioning and athletic techniques. If the athlete is throwing curve balls taping the elbow isn't going to help.

Adhesive Tape in the Prevention and Treatment of Athletic Injuries Athletic taping and wrapping are just part of the arsenal the athletic trainer has to offer to the athlete. With all taping and wrapping procedures: If pain or soreness does not decrease or go away, a further evaluation and diagnosis will be needed. Adequate circulation is crucial. If the extremity changes color or starts to get cold, the taping or wrapping is probably too tight and must be redone to the athletes recommendations.

Taping Guidelines The best taping procedure is done directly on shaved skin. Taping everyday may cause the skin to become irritated. Under wrap and skin adherent prior to taping are often used to prevent this. If the procedure is done using under wrap, it is still best to start the taping procedure with the tape directly on the skin to add security.

Taping Guidelines Ask athletes if they are allergic to either the tape or skin adherent. If an athlete comes to you after practice and complains of itching or a rash where the skin was, this is a sign of an allergy to the tape or tape adherent. Cover all cuts and blisters with some form of skin lubricant and a foam padding on any friction or pressure areas before applying the underwrap.

The Need for Quality in Athletic Adhesive Tape Probably the greatest single use of adhesive tape by the athletic trainer is in prophylactic strapping of the ankle. This preventative taping is done daily, usually in a short time before practice or games. It is not enough that the tape be easy to work with; it must also afford protection and stability to the part being strapped.

Use and Storage of Athletic Tape Tearing adhesive tape is a simple procedure to learn, but is often complicated by tape twisting, lotion on hands, or fingernail used to start the tear. Supportive and specialty tapes should be stored in a cool, relatively dry place. High temperatures will alter the character and consistency of the latex adhesive masses, increasing the unwind tension on the roll and making the tape difficult to work with.