Using athletic tape effectively requires understanding its purpose and applying it correctly. The best approach is always under the guidance of an athletic trainer or medical professional. However, here's a general overview of how to use athletic tape:
1. Preparation is Key:
- Clean and Dry Skin: Ensure the area to be taped is clean, dry, and free of any oils, lotions, or sweat. This helps the tape adhere properly. Consider using an alcohol wipe.
- Hair Removal (Optional): For hairy areas, shaving or trimming the hair can improve adhesion and reduce discomfort when removing the tape.
- Skin Adherent (Optional): Some athletes use a skin adherent spray or wipe (e.g., Tuf-Skin) to further enhance tape adhesion, especially in humid conditions or for extended taping periods.
2. Positioning and Technique:
- Consult a Professional: The specific technique and positioning of the tape are crucial and depend entirely on the injury or the support you are trying to provide. An athletic trainer or physical therapist can demonstrate the correct application.
- Understand the Goal: Are you providing support, limiting range of motion, or compressing an area? The answer determines the taping method.
- Anchor Strips: Begin by applying anchor strips of tape without tension to the skin above and below the area to be supported. These serve as a secure base for the rest of the taping.
- Application with Tension: Apply the tape with appropriate tension. Too much tension can restrict circulation or irritate the skin; too little tension won't provide adequate support. The amount of tension varies depending on the taping technique.
- Overlapping Strips: Overlap each strip of tape by approximately half its width to ensure even support and prevent gaps.
- Closing Strips: Finish by applying closing strips, similar to the anchor strips, to secure the taping and prevent edges from peeling.
3. General Taping Guidelines:
- Smooth Application: Avoid wrinkles or creases in the tape, as these can cause blisters or skin irritation.
- Check Circulation: After applying the tape, check for signs of impaired circulation, such as numbness, tingling, or excessive swelling. If any of these occur, remove the tape immediately.
- Protective Padding (if needed): In some instances, padding may be necessary to protect vulnerable areas from friction or pressure caused by the tape.
4. Removal:
- Tape Remover (Optional): Using a tape remover spray or wipe can ease the removal process and minimize skin irritation.
- Slow and Steady: Remove the tape slowly and carefully, peeling it back in the direction of hair growth. Support the skin as you remove the tape to prevent tearing or irritation.
Example: Ankle Taping for Support
While a full demonstration is beyond the scope of this text, an example of ankle taping for support involves:
- Anchor: Applying anchor strips around the lower leg (above the ankle) and the mid-foot.
- Stirrups: Applying "stirrup" strips, starting from the inside of the leg anchor, running under the heel, and attaching to the outside of the leg anchor. Repeat 2-3 times.
- Heel Locks: Applying heel lock strips, alternating from the inside to the outside of the ankle, to provide further stability.
- Figure-Eights: Optional figure-eight patterns around the ankle joint for added support.
- Closure: Closing strips to secure all the taping.
Important Considerations:
- Athletic tape is not a substitute for proper medical care. If you have an injury, consult a doctor or athletic trainer.
- Be aware of potential allergic reactions to the adhesive.
- Do not apply tape over broken skin or open wounds.
- Practice proper taping techniques under supervision before attempting to tape yourself or others.
In short, athletic tape application requires clean skin, appropriate technique based on the specific injury or need, proper tension, and attention to circulation. Always seek guidance from a qualified professional for best results.
