Taping – Injury Prevention

Preventative taping Taping refers to the application of adhesive or non-adhesive strapping or bandages to a joint area to protect, support or strengthen the joint during movement. Sports that require agility, speed, power and strength can place considerable stress on joints. Examples of such sports are basketball, football, soccer and netball. These sports demand explosive movements and frequent changes of direction, so the joints continually sustain high levels of stress. Under these circumstances there is considerable potential for injury. Taping in these situations is a preventative or prophylactic measure.

Taping principles Use non-elastic tape for support. Elastic tape is used mainly for compression bandages. Ensure that the joint is placed in a position where it can be stabilised. Always begin with anchors. To ensure evenness of tension, pull the tape off the roll, then apply. Overlap each application by half to two-thirds to ensure strength. Maintain even pressure and reapply if circulation is cut. Avoid creasing the tape.

Taping principles Continued Avoid continuous taping; that is, tear and restart after applying each strip (except when closing down). With the exception of eversion (rolling out) sprains, always tape in the direction that will tighten the structures at risk. For example, if the injury is on the lateral side of the ankle, the tape should pull from the lateral side upwards towards the medial side. Completely cover skin around the area with tape. Always finish with locks. Remove tape using blunt nose scissors to avoid risk of injury from incision.

Taping for isolation of injury Taping is often required after an injury has been sustained and may be necessary during the rehabilitation process. For example, an ankle injury may be healed, but requires testing in training. In cases such as this, support should be provided while the injured area becomes accustomed to the demands of full activity. Taping may also be required so that the athlete can participate in body conditioning exercises to maintain fitness as much as possible during recuperation.

Bandaging for immediate treatment of injury Immediately an injury is sustained, some bandaging is essential. Using the RICER regime means that compression bandages will be applied to restrict bleeding into the injured area; however, other bandaging may also be helpful. The type of bandaging necessary will vary according to the location and type of injury sustained. However, bandaging at this point serves to limit the motion of the body part, usually by securing it to another body part.

ACTIVITY Watch the following weblink video http://www.elastoplastsport.com.au/Video/Default.aspx Complete the procedure for taping the wrist/thumb and ankle. Complete Inquiry Activity pg: 449 Outcomes 2