1. Fundamentals of Taping

2. 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

3. Indications for Applying Tape To provide support and stability  After a joint injury, ligaments may be overstretched and loose. Taping improves stability To provide immediate first aid  Usually to hold a bandage in place To secure a pad or brace  Keeps any pads or braces in place or from coming loose

4. 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

5. 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

6. 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

7. 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 important Proper 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

8. 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!

9. 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 skin Pre-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