Wrapping In Athletics

If done incorrectly you can cause further injury Unless you have been thoroughly trained on how to wrap and tape injuries you should NOT do it If done incorrectly you can cause further injury If you want to tape athletes you MUST have additional classes/training) Always have a certified sports medicine professional tape, wrap, or care for an injury

Reasoning Behind Taping/Wrapping In Athletics Support and stability Restriction Compression Injury prevention Secure padding or brace Protection Emotional support NEVER to substitute rehab

Things to consider…. Type of tape/wrap to use Evaluation Preparation of site Application Evaluation Type of injury Severity Location Type of athlete Anatomical variation History

Elastic Wraps Used for: Various sizes and lengths Support Compression Secure dressing/ice Less restrictive Create ‘X’ pattern Used for:

Elastic Wrap Application Circle body part for anchor Distally -> proximally Position of muscle contraction More turns = better Overlap by ½ Secure with clips/tape Check circulation

Commonly wrapped areas: Ankle Spica ankle in neutral, Metatarsal arch Figure 8 moderate pressure and loosen as you move up the leg Heel covered Each spica is overlapped by ½ PRACTICE!

Commonly wrapped areas: Shoulder Spica Anchor around upper arm “Dog ear” – edge sticks out 2-3” Around chest and under unaffected upper arm, across back Around upper arm again – overlap by at least ½ Back to anchor AC joint sprain – wrap should cross directly over joint

Commonly wrapped areas: Elbow Figure 8 Distally -> Proximally Anchor over posterior aspect of elbow Figure 8 crossing antecubital fossa Overlap by ½ Back to anchor Hand and Wrist Figure 8 Anchor around palm Obliquely around hand and wrist back to anchor

Commonly wrapped areas: Spiral Wrap Hamstrings/Quadriceps/Lower Leg - standing with leg forward - distally -> proximally - lock with circular turns

Commonly wrapped areas Adductor Strain (groin)

Review What is the purpose of using elastic wraps?