Taping and Wrapping Made Simple

Taping and Wrapping
Made Simple
KWWSERRNVPHGLFRVRUJ
Taping and Wrapping
Made Simple
Brad A. Abell, MEd, ATC, LAT

Co-Athletic Trainer
Athletics
Royse City Independent School District
Royse City, Texas
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Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data
Athletic taping and wrapping made simple / editor, Brad Abell. — 1st ed.
p. ; cm.
Includes index.
ISBN 978-0-7817-6994-5
1. Sports injuries. 2. Bandages and bandaging. I. Abell, Brad.
[DNLM: 1. Athletic Injuries— therapy. 2. Athletic Injuries— prevention & control. 3. Bandages.
QT 261 A8715 2009]
RD97.A865 2009
617.1 027 —dc22
2008048833
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10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
In memory of my mother
Contents
PART I
Taping and Wrapping Basics
Chapter 1 Introduction to Taping and Wrapping Supplies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Taping and Wrapping Supplies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Sports Medicine Product Manufacturers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Sports Medicine Supply Companies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Chapter 2 Basic Skills of Taping and Wrapping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Taping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Tearing Tape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Smoothing as You Go. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Tape Manipulation and Body Angles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Tape Tension . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Removing Tape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Anatomy: Knowing What is Underneath . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Basic Tape Strips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Special Considerations when Taping. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Taping Versus Bracing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Wrapping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Applying an Elastic Wrap. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Wrapping Tips. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Special Considerations when Wrapping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Chapter 3 Basic Injury and Wound Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

The Injury Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Treating Injuries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
The Most Common Types of Closed Injuries and Wounds . . . . . . . . . . 24
Treating Open Wounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
PART II
Lower Extremity
Chapter 4 Lower Leg . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Lower Leg Anatomy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Ankle Sprain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Double Heel Lock (Helmer & Helberg) Strip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Double Figure Eight (Sunderland) Strip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Spartan Strip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Achille’s Tendonitis/Strain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Shin Splints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Antipronation Strips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Arch Strain/Sprain or Plantar Fasciitis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Turf Toe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Heel Bruise. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Ankle Sprain Wrap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
vii
viii Contents
Chapter 5 Knee. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Anatomy of the Knee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Knee Sprain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Patella (Knee Cap) Tendonitis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
Basic Knee Wrap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Chapter 6 Hip/Thigh . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Anatomy of the Hip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Hip Pointer Contusion (Bruise). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Hip Flexor Strain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Groin Strain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Quadriceps/Hamstring Strain. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
Thigh Contusion (Bruise) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86
PART III
Upper Extremity
Chapter 7 Lower Arm/Wrist/Hand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
Anatomy of the Lower Arm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
Wrist Sprain/Strain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
Hand and Wrist Sprain/Strain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
Thumb Sprain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
Thumb Check-rein . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .100
Finger Sprain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .102
Finger ‘‘Buddy’’ Taping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .104
Basic Wrist Wrap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .105
Chapter 8 Elbow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107

Anatomy of the Elbow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
Elbow Sprain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .111
Elbow Hyperextension . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .113
Basic Elbow Wrap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .116
Chapter 9 Shoulder/Thorax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118

Anatomy of the Shoulder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
Basic Shoulder Wrap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .123
Acromioclavicular Joint Separation/Bruise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .126
Rib Bruise Wrap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .127
Appendix A Anatomical Positioning and Terminology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130

Appendix B Individual Skill Sheet. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132
Appendix C Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134
Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137
Reviewers
Bridget Avery, MS, ATC

Certified Athletic Trainer
Indian Valley Vocational Center
Sandwich, Illinois
Chris Franklin, ATC

Sports Medicine Instructor/Athletic Trainer
North Kitsap High School
Poulsbo, Washington
Philip Hackmann, ATC, LATC, EMT-I

Head Athletic Trainer and Teacher
Proctor Academy
Andover, New Hampshire
Linda S. Levy, EdD, ATC

Associate Professor
Plymouth State University
Plymouth, New Hampshire
Kyle Momsen, MA, ATC

Faculty
Gustavus Adolphus College
Saint Peter, Minnesota
Michael Moore, PhD, ATC

Assistant Professor
Radford University
Radford, Virginia
Dexter Nelson, MSc, CAT(C)

Certified Athletic Therapist
Instructor— Advanced Certificate in Athletic Therapy
Department of Physical Education and Recreation Studies
Mount Royal College
Calgary, Alberta, Canada
Jennifer O’Donoghue, MA, ATC, CSCS

Assistant Professor
Western Michigan University
Kalamazoo, Michigan
Patrick Olsen, MS, ATC

Head of Athletic Medicine
South Kitsap High School
Port Orchard, Washington
ix
x Reviewers
Jennifer M. Plos, EdD, ATC

Instructor
Western Illinois University
Macomb, Illinois
Renee L. Polubinsky, EdD, ATC, CSCS

Assistant Professor
Western Illinois University
Macomb, Illinois
Jack Ransone, PhD, ATC, FACSM

Professor/Director of Athletic Training
Texas State University
San Marcos, Texas
Tracye Rawls-Martin, MS, ATC

Assistant Professor, Director ATEP
Division of Athletic Training and Sports Sciences
Long Island University, Brooklyn Campus
Brooklyn, New York
Kelli M. Steele, MS
Head Athletic Trainer
Smith College
Northampton, Massachusetts
Hal Strough, PhD

Athletic Training Education Program Director
UW Oshkosh
Oshkosh, Wisconsin
Tom Stueber, MS, ATC

Assistant Professor
Tusculum College
Greeneville, Tennessee
Janet Wilbert, EdD

Assistant Professor
University of Tennessee
Martin, Tennessee
Greg Zuest, PhD, ATC

Assistant Director and Clinical Assistant Professor
University of Florida
Gainesville, Florida
Preface
nfortunately athletic trainers aren’t in every sports setting or team situation.

U Because not everyone has access to an athletic trainer, they need the next best
thing: a book that teaches them to apply certain taping and wrapping procedures. It
became apparent working as an athletic training professional in both the collegiate
and high school settings that there was a need for a very basic taping and wrapping
text. The texts on the market currently are geared more toward the professional and
athletic training student in a college setting; these texts use more high-level anatomy
and medical and technical terminology that may not be clearly understood by
coaches, parents, or high school athletic training students. Anatomy and terminology
are very important in taping and wrapping but not everyone has the opportunity or
advantage of learning them in depth. This is not to say, however, that the text will
be so simple that the collegiate athletic training student will not benefit by using it.
Collegiate athletic training students are novices at anatomy and medical terminology
when they first begin learning taping and wrapping; quite a few college students are
taking these classes at the same time they are learning about taping and wrapping.
We have kept all of the procedures simple, but they are still practical and functional.
Organization
This text is organized to provide ‘‘the basics’’ about taping and wrapping, then moves
on to detail procedures for the lower body and upper body. Chapter 1 introduces the
reader to taping and wrapping supplies and basic terminology. Chapter 2 highlights
basic techniques and skills, and Chapter 3 discusses very basic injury and wound
care. Chapters 4 through 6 review the lower extremity, including the leg/ankle/foot,
the knee, and the hip/thigh. Chapters 7 through 9 provide instruction on the upper
extremity, including the arm/wrist/hand, the elbow, and the shoulder and thorax.
Taping and Wrapping Made Simple names the procedures for the injury or condition
for which they are used; this will allow the reader to associate the taping procedures
with the appropriate injuries. Keeping the purpose of this text in mind, some taping
and wrapping procedures are too complicated or not often used, such as the open
gibney and the closed ankle basket weave. Only the basic procedures needed to aid
in the most common injuries and conditions are included.
Features
Anatomical images are provided at the beginning of Chapters 4 through 9 to
provide a basic understanding of the anatomy of the area being discussed. Taping
and Wrapping Procedures are highlighted, providing information about the specific
injury, goals of the procedure, necessary supplies, and patient positioning, along
with step-by-step instructions. Tips, Hints, and Tricks and Common Mistakes are
highlighted in boxes after each taping and wrapping procedure.
Companion DVD
Included with every copy of Taping and Wrapping Made Simple is a DVD that
contains over 40 video clips of taping and wrapping basics and techniques for
xi
xii Preface
different types of injuries. It is difficult to take information like that provided in the
step-by-step procedure instructions in the text and apply them in real-life situations.
These videos will allow the reader to practice taping and wrapping and provide
review to ensure procedures are being done correctly. In the text, an icon is
included next to each procedure that has an accompanying video on the DVD.
Companion Website
Taping and Wrapping Made Simple includes additional resources for both instructors
and students, available on the book’s companion website at http://thePoint.lww.
com/Abell1e.
Instructors are able to access an Image Bank, including all illustrations, photos,
and tables from the text. Students will be able to view more than 40 video clips,
described above. In addition, purchasers of the text can access the searchable
Full Text On-line by going to the Taping and Wrapping Made Simple website
at http://thePoint.lww.com/Abell1e. See the inside front cover for more details,
including the passcode you will need to gain access to the website.
It is my hope that this text will be as beneficial to the reader as I think it will be.
The ultimate goal of this book is to educate the reader so that he or she may be able
to provide some much needed help to an injured individual. Again, this text is not
meant to take the place of a certified athletic trainer, but rather provide a resource
to someone who may not have access to a certified athletic trainer’s services.
Brad Abell
Acknowledgments
his book could not have been possible without the patience and support of my
T wife, Billie, and my children, Bailey and Trent. I thank them for their love and
support.
A special thank you to my dad Benny and my late mother, Georgia, for being
positive role models and providing a moral compass in my life. They are truly the
best parents anyone could ask for.
A thank you is in order to Ed Sunderland for his guidance and friendship over
the years. He has played an instrumental part in the development of my life as a
mentor, colleague, and friend. Ed was very helpful as a consultant to this text as
well.
Finally, a special thank you to everyone at Lippincott Williams & Wilkins: Emily
Lupash, Acquisitions Editor, thank you for adopting my idea and allowing it to
become reality; to Andrea Klingler, Managing Editor, for keeping me on track and
providing invaluable guidance in all aspects of this text; to Brett MacNaughton, Art
Director, for his guidance and excellent graphics work; to Freddie Patane and Ed
Schultes, video production; Mark Lozier and J. Anthony, photography; and Michael
Licisyn and Carmen Marino, videography, for making the photo and video shoots
an enjoyable process; and a thank you to all of the models, for putting up with the
long poses and sore muscles.
xiii
P A R T
I
Taping and
Wrapping Basics
C H A P T E R
Introduction to Taping
1 and Wrapping
Objectives
X Describe the benefits of taping/wrapping
X Identify various taping/wrapping supplies
X Determine what supplies are needed for taping/wrapping
X Distinguish between the different types of tapes and foams
X Describe what each common taping/wrapping supply

is used for
X Define terminology related to taping/wrapping
2
CHAPTER 1 • Introduction to Taping and Wrapping 3
Why use tape? Taping is beneficial because it can:

• Give extra support to ligaments, muscles, and tendons
• Aid in the prevention of injuries by limiting range of
motion
• Contribute to a safer and faster return from injury
• Aid in the rehabilitation of an injury
• Provide a mental boost of confidence to the athlete
Why use elastic wraps? Elastic wraps are beneficial because they can:
• Aid in the prevention of swelling
• Aid in the reduction of established swelling
• Stimulate nerve receptors to help reduce pain
• Compress the muscles/aid in keeping them warm
• Give extra support to injured muscles
Before learning how to apply different taping and wrapping procedures, it is
important to learn about the different supplies that will be needed. Taping and
wrapping ‘‘lingo’’ will also be covered throughout this text.
Taping and Wrapping Supplies

Nonelastic Tape (see Fig. 1-1)
• Comes in assorted sizes: 1/2 , 1 ,
1 1/2 , 2
• Most common athletic tape used
• 1 1/2 most commonly used size
• Assorted colors
• 100% cotton, best quality
• Does not have any stretch
• Used primarily for support taping
• Bleached with zinc oxide (better
Figure 1-1
quality)
Light-Duty Elastic Tape (see Fig. 1-2)

• Comes in assorted sizes: 1 , 1 1/2 ,
2 , 3
Adhesive (Fig. 1-2)
• Conform type—lighter weight, very
elastic with adhesive backing
• Used primarily to hold
dressings/band aids/wraps in place
• Examples: Tear-light and Lightplast
are common brand names on the
market
Figure 1-2
Nonadhesive (Fig 1-2)
• Sticks to itself, very handy to use
when time is limited to wrap/tape a
body part
4 PART I • Taping and Wrapping Basics
• Used primarily as a base for nonelastic

tape (can be used instead of
prewrap)
• Powerflex is a common brand name on
the market
Heavy-Duty Elastic Tape (see Fig. 1-3)

• Comes in assorted sizes: 1 , 1 1/2 ,
2 , 3
• Heavier weight, slight elasticity with
adhesive backing
• Used primarily when extra support
is needed in addition to regular
taping
• Scissors are needed; cannot be torn
by hand easily
• Elastoplast and Elastikon are Figure 1-3
common brand names on the market
Prewrap or Underwrap (see Fig. 1-4)

• Comes in assorted colors (2 3/4 size
or width)
• Fairly cheap
• Used primarily for patient comfort
and ease of tape removal by
providing an underneath layer that
tape is applied to instead of directly
to the skin
Figure 1-4
Tape Adherent (see Fig. 1-5)

• Q.D.A. and Tuff-Skin are the most
common brand names on the market
• Aerosol spray cans, vary in size
• Applied to the skin before taping or
wrapping
• Used primarily to help tape stick
better/longer; also used to help keep
elastic wraps in place
Figure 1-5
Tape Cutters (see Fig. 1-6)

• Cramer Shark is the most common
brand name device on the market
• Reusable but blades have to be
replaced periodically because they
get dull cutting through the tape
• Used primarily to cut through tape
without cutting the skin
Figure 1-6
Tape Scissors (see Fig. 1-7)

• (A) Lister, (B) Super Pro or Claus,
(C) Alert Pro, and (D) EMT shears
are the most common types of tape
cutting scissors on the market
• Comes in assorted sizes and types
• Should have a safety tip on the end
of blade to prevent ‘‘stabbing’’ of
the skin
• Tape residue on scissor blades can
be removed by wiping with rubbing
Figure 1-7
alcohol
• Typically the bigger the
bandage/tape scissors, the easier it
cuts through tape
• Used primarily for tape removal as
well as cutting certain types of tape
that cannot be torn by hand
Heel and Lace Pads (see Fig. 1-8)

• Used to cover areas of the body
under the tape job where friction is
likely to occur; helps prevent blisters
• Buy the perforated kind and tear (2)
pieces off and use petroleum jelly
skin lube to apply between the two
pieces
• Come in 1,000 per roll and 2 rolls
per box
Figure 1-8
Tape Remover (see Fig. 1-9)

• Comes in a variety (spray can, box
of individual wipes, or by the gallon)
• Typically leaves a ‘‘greasy’’ feel on
the skin that can be removed by
rubbing alcohol
• Used primarily to remove the
residual tape adherent from the skin
that is left behind after tape removal
Figure 1-9
Razor/Clippers (see 1-10)

• Any cordless or electric clippers will
work fine
• Skin does not have to be shaved by a
straight razor, clippers work just fine
• Care must be exercised when using
electric clippers around water
sources
• Used primarily to remove excess hair
so that tape can be applied directly
to the skin without the discomfort
Figure 1-10
of pulling hair on removal
Elastic Wraps (see Fig. 1-11)

• Come in assorted sizes and lengths:
2 , 3 , 4 , and 6 widths
• Also come in 4 and 6 double
lengths (for bigger body parts)
Figure 1-11
Padding (see Fig. 1-12)

• Common types of padding are felt
(A), gel (B), and foam (C).
Low-Density Padding
• Also referred to as ‘‘open-cell
padding’’
• More of a spongy feel with more
give than high-density padding
• Comes in assorted thickness
• Can be adhesive or nonadhesive
• Can be made from foam, gel, or Figure 1-12
vinyl rubber
High-Density Padding
• Also referred to as ‘‘closed-cell
padding’’
• Less of a spongy feel and less give
than low-density padding
• Comes in assorted thicknesses
• Can be adhesive or nonadhesive
• Can be made from foam, felt, gel, or
vinyl rubber
Sports Medicine Product Manufacturers

The main sports medicine product manufacturers are Cramer, Mueller, and Johnson
& Johnson. These companies produce a wide variety of sports medicine supplies
that are used on a daily basis globally.
Sports Medicine Supply Companies

When buying taping and wrapping supplies it is wise not to purchase them from
pharmacy stores or sports equipment stores as the prices are usually marked up
200% to 300%. Anyone can purchase supplies through a sports medicine company
or vendor. Some companies have minimum purchase prices but most do not.
Some companies will provide free shipping depending on the amount of the order
and other discount offers at the time. Sports medicine companies and their sales
representatives will work with sports groups and can help save money by offering
about 15% off-catalog pricing in most cases. Also, whenever possible order in bulk
because increasing the quantity of a product will lower the price of each product.
Below is a list of some of the biggest sports medicine supply companies and their
corresponding web sites.
Alert Services, Inc.
www.alertservices.com
Medco Supply Co.
www.medco-athletics.com
School Health Corp.
www.esportshealth.com
Moore Medical Co.
www.mooremedical.com
Henry Schein, Inc.
www.henryschein.com
C H A P T E R
Basic Skills of Taping
2 and Wrapping
Objectives
X Demonstrate the proper skills needed to tear tape
X Identify common mistakes made when trying to tear tape
X Identify important aspects to consider when taping/wrapping
X Demonstrate the proper skills needed to remove tape
X Define terminology related to taping/wrapping
8
CHAPTER 2 • Basic Skills of Taping and Wrapping 9
TAPING
Tearing Tape
The first and most important aspect of taping is learning how to tear athletic
tape. The nonelastic and most light-duty elastic tapes (see Chapter 1) can be torn by
hand. The heavy-duty elastic tape must be cut by scissors or tape cutters. Tearing
tape properly is especially important because it decreases the amount of time needed
to finish the procedure. Using scissors to cut each strip will add minutes to the taping
procedure. Tearing tape is a science but some people are naturals!
Let us go over the steps for tearing tape. Follow along with the corresponding
pictures:
Step 1: Pick up the tape roll with the dominant hand putting the
middle finger inside the roll. Take the index finger and place on
the ‘‘sticky’’ side of the tape (see Fig. 2-1).
Figure 2-1
Step 2: Take the index finger of the opposite hand and place it on the
‘‘sticky’’ side of the tape right next to the other index finger. Both
index fingers should be the only fingers on the sticky side of the
tape (see Fig. 2-2).
Figure 2-2
Step 3: Place both thumbs together at the top of the tape and press
hard against the index fingers. While applying pressure, place
tension on the tape by pulling the tape roll away from the opposite
hand. This stretches and separates the individual tape threads and
makes it easier to tear the cross fibers (see Fig. 2-3).
Figure 2-3
Step 4: As tension is applied, move the tape roll toward or away

from the body. For most people, it is easier to move the tape roll
away from their body. This causes a twisting or ‘‘shearing’’ force
that makes it easier to tear the tape (see Fig. 2-4).
Figure 2-4
Tearing tape can be very frustrating to someone just starting out. The key is
perseverance and practice. It will become easier with more practice guaranteed. It
cannot be stressed enough how important practice is in regard to taping. Several
common mistakes that are made by beginners first learning how to tear tape are
discussed below.
Mistake no. 1: The edge of the tape has rolled over. When this
happens, it is impossible to tear the tape. Scissors must be used or
more tape will have to be pulled off of the roll and torn above the
fold (see Fig. 2-5).
Figure 2-5
Mistake no. 2: There is space between the thumbs and/or index

fingers. The thumbs and index fingers must be held together
tightly to tear the tape easily (see Fig. 2-6).
Figure 2-6
Mistake no. 3: Trying to tear tape with only the tips of the index
fingers. The idea is to get as much of the index fingers on the
sticky side of the tape as possible. Most people tend to want to
use their fingertips when tearing tape (see Fig. 2-7).
Figure 2-7
Mistake no. 4: Not applying enough pressure with the thumbs. It is

critical that you apply enough pressure with the thumbs against
the index fingers (see Fig. 2-8).
Figure 2-8
Mistake no. 5: Trying to twist the tape instead of pulling apart and
twisting. Applying one without the other will not work very well.
Both have to be done at the same time (see Fig. 2-9).
Figure 2-9
When practicing to tear tape, it is common to develop blisters or even calluses

over the index fingers after lots of practice. This is normal. If a hot spot or blister
develops, stop and ice the area for 5 to 10 minutes. This may help prevent the blister
from forming. A band-aid can be worn over the area or tape can be applied to the
irritated area to prevent future irritations.
Smoothing as You Go
One important aspect of taping is smoothing the tape to the skin/prewrap after each
strip is torn. This means to conform (or mold) the tape to the skin’s surface. If this is
not done properly, wrinkles can develop in the tape, which, if big enough, can lead
to blisters. This is not to say that you cannot have wrinkles in the tape. All levels
of tapers will have wrinkles but the goal is to limit the size and amount of wrinkles
to as little as possible. By smoothing the tape down and minimizing wrinkles it also
makes the overall tape job look much better. This will also help to instill confidence
in the athlete that can be invaluable.
By following the steps for tearing tape listed above, ‘‘smoothing as you go,’’ it
will become second nature to the taper. Let us refresh for a second. The tape roll is
in the dominant hand. Both index fingers and thumbs are involved with tearing the
tape. This leaves the other three fingers on the nondominant hand free, right? These
fingers are important during taping because they can be utilized to smooth the tape
end down after it is torn. Practice this several times: once the tape is torn, bring the
three fingers through in a sweeping motion smoothing the tape end down each time.
This takes a lot of practice to get right. Fast, efficient tapers utilize this technique to
take less time taping when time is scarce such as during games, practices, etc.
Tape Manipulation and Body Angles

Depending on what body part is being taped, there are unique lines and body angles
that the taper has to be aware of. This is especially true in the ankle and wrist joints.
Nonelastic tape goes only where it wants to go; it can only be manipulated so much
before it creases and wrinkles. This is where knowing the lines and angles of the
body will help you as a taper. Figures 2-10 and 2-11 show examples of body angles.
Tape Tension
Applying the right amount of tension is critical in every successful taping procedure.
If too much tension is applied, the taping procedure will be too tight. If not
Figure 2-10 Example of a body angle.
enough is applied, it will be too loose. So how does one know how much tension
to apply? There is no real good answer. This important aspect of taping comes
from performing many taping procedures. With continual practice the taper will
eventually get a ‘‘feel’’ for the right amount of tension to apply when taping. Upon
first learning to tape it is also beneficial to get feedback from the person who is being
taped. This will help in developing the proper tension in future taping procedures.
Removing Tape
After the taping procedure has served its purpose, it must be removed. There are
several means of doing this. The most common ways are to use special bandage
Figure 2-11 Example of a body angle.

scissors or a tape cutting instrument such as a Cramer Shark. When removing

tape, always start at the top and cut toward the bottom (moving away from the
body/torso) as injury may occur otherwise. In specific areas such as the ankle, start on
the inside and go behind the medial malleolus (the bone on the inside of your ankle
that sticks out) continuing on through the arch and toward the toes (see Fig. 2-12).
Figure 2-12 Removing tape from the ankle.
When peeling the tape from the skin, use one hand to apply pressure to the skin
right above the tape as the tape is pulled in a downward motion (see Fig. 2-13). Tape
should always be pulled toward the ground because that is the direction in which
Figure 2-13 Peeling tape from the skin.

the body hair grows. Pulling upward against the direction of the hair growth will
cause pain. It is possible to use this method and remove tape that is directly applied
over hair causing little or no pain.
A tape removing solution can help in removing the tape residue left behind after
removing the tape. It comes in aerosol spray cans, individual wipes, and by the
gallon.
It is also very important to note that tape should never be pulled off in a quick
manner because the top layer of skin could be ripped off causing a superficial wound.
Anatomy: Knowing What is Underneath

It is very important that the person applying the taping procedure know what he
or she is taping and why. This will help ensure that the procedure is functional.
The taping procedure is done for a reason—a specific anatomical structure is weak
or injured and needs to be supported. By knowing the underlying anatomy, a good
taper knows exactly what he or she is taping, where it is located, and what function
it serves. For example, let us assume that an athlete has an Achilles’ tendon strain
that needs to be taped. The layperson who does not know anatomy very well will
not realize that you need to tape from the ball of the foot to the muscle belly of
the calf. A common mistake made in this case is to tape too low on the calf, thus
providing insufficient biomechanical support to the tendon.
Basic Tape Strips

Before learning how to perform the taping and wrapping procedures in the following
chapters, one must start with the basic tape strips. Think of a ‘‘tape procedure’’
as building a house. One should start off with a proper foundation followed by
the main support strips which constitute the framework of the house. Finally, the
cover strips or ‘‘outer appearance’’ are added to make the tape look smooth, to
cover any holes which could cause blisters, and to add structure to the overall taping
procedure.
Let us talk about the foundation strips first. These are called anchor strips. These
are the first strips of a taping procedure. This is where most strips will originate
and/or end.
The next types of strips are called the support strips. These strips do exactly
what their name suggests: they support underlying structures. These strips are the
bulk of the taping procedure. It also helps to think of these strips as adding an extra
ligament, tendon, etc. to help support the real one underneath.
The last types of strips are called the closure strips. These strips effectively ‘‘lock’’
the taping procedure, as they are usually the last strips applied. They cover loose
tape ends and make the taping procedure look better.
In addition to the most common types of strips, the taper should be aware of a
couple of other strips. The first is called a spica (see Fig. 2-14). The term ‘‘spica’’
basically means taping or wrapping a small body part to a larger body part. A good
example is when taping a thumb; one part loops around the base of the thumb and
the other loops around the wrist. The term ‘‘figure 8,’’ is usually associated with the
term ‘‘spica.’’
In some taping procedures it is necessary to limit movement of a joint in a certain
direction. Check-reins are useful in this endeavor because of their limitations. One
example of a check-rein is taping the base of the thumb to the base of the adjacent
index finger (see Fig. 2-15). This limits or keeps the thumb from bending in certain
directions, which can cause further injury and/or pain.
Another useful type of strip is the fan strip (see Fig. 2-16). This strip is actually
made up of several individual overlapping strips set in a ‘‘fan or X shape.’’ This
strip is similar to a check-rein in that it is used when extra limitation of movement
of a joint is desired. An example would be applying a fan strip to a hyperextension
taping procedure to further limit extension of that joint.
Figure 2-14 Spica strip.
Special Considerations when Taping

Patient Cooperation
The athlete/patient must cooperate to achieve an optimal taping procedure. The ath-
lete must be positioned properly and must maintain that position during the duration
of the procedure. If he or she does not concentrate and hold position, the taping/
wrapping procedure could end up being too tight. For example, when taping an
ankle, an athlete may tend to relax his or her foot instead of holding it in the neutral
(or ‘‘90-degree’’) position. This will always cause the tape to be too tight.
Along with patient cooperation comes protecting the patient’s modesty. When
taping or wrapping a sensitive area, proper discretion should be followed. A private
Figure 2-15 Check-rein.

Figure 2-16 Fan strip.
area should be used when available. If the taper is of the opposite sex as the
patient/athlete, a person of the patient’s same sex should accompany them to the
private area. Another option is to have someone of the same sex tape the individual
if that is an available option. Failure to follow these guidelines could lead to false
sexual harassment lawsuits being filed.
Allergic Reactions
Some people have an allergic reaction to the adhesive glue (latex) found in tape (see
Fig. 2-17). In these cases, you can use prewrap and not tape straight to the skin.
However, the taping procedure will not be as effective as one taped directly to the
skin. There are also hypoallergenic tapes on the market that can be utilized in this
situation. Should someone start to develop hives and/or itching around or under the
tape, remove immediately and apply a topical antihistamine cream such as Benadryl
to the affected area.
Figure 2-17 Some people have an allergic reac-

tion to the adhesive glue (latex) found in tape.
Tape Burns and Blisters

Taping can sometimes result in painful friction skin wounds (hot spots) and/or
blisters. The most common causes are applying the tape too tight, only applying one
layer of tape or prewrap and having bad wrinkles in the tape job. Most of these can
be prevented by placing heel and lace pads with skin lube (or petroleum jelly) over
the high-friction areas such as the foot/ankle (see Fig. 2-18). Using heel and lace
pads will significantly reduce the number of burns and blisters from taping.
Figure 2-18 Heel and lace pads.
Should a friction skin wound and/or blister develop, clean the area with soap
and water and apply ointment to the affected area. Use a band-aid to keep the area
covered. If the blister is intact, leave it that way. Do not cut away the blister (dead
skin) until after a few days as the ‘‘new’’ skin underneath is very tender during that
time. However, if the blister is torn, the flap of dead skin should be cut off. If it
is not removed it will rub against the ‘‘new’’ skin causing more pain and possibly
creating another blister.
Burns and blisters can easily get infected. They should be cleaned and dressed
daily. Watch for any signs or symptoms of infection which include fever, chills,
redness, pain, swelling, red streaks, and/or pus formation. If any of these are present,
a physician should be consulted immediately.
Straight to Skin Versus Prewrap

As far as functionality is concerned, taping straight to the skin is preferred over
prewrap. By taping to the skin, a higher level of support is achieved. If prewrap is
used, it creates a layer between the tape and the skin. When the athlete goes on the
court or field, he or she sweats. After 10 to 15 minutes of exercise, the prewrap has
absorbed the sweat and now slides on the skin. This effect is not desirable when
trying to achieve maximum effectiveness from the taping procedure.
The reason why prewrap is so popular is because people do not like having tape
applied directly to the skin, which is understandable. They also do not want to have
to shave the area being taped. Taping to the skin also leaves a tape residue that is
harder to get off and requires more time to remove.
Taping Versus Bracing

So what is better—taping or bracing? Technically, there is no difference between the
two when it comes to functionality. Several studies have been done and have shown
that one is not any more significant than the other when it comes to injury prevention.
It pretty much comes down to practicality. When is it more practical to tape versus
wrap or vice versa? Both taping and bracing have advantages and disadvantages.
Table 2-1 lists some of the more common advantages and disadvantages for each:
TABLE 2-1 Advantages and Disadvantages of Tapping and Bracing

Common Advantages Common Disadvantages
Taping Does not have to be Can be more expensive in the

custom-fitted long term
Can save money in the Cannot be retightened like braces
short term can
Bracing Can save money over the Most have to be fitted by sizes
long term (custom)
Can be tightened during Some athletes do not like them
game/practice
WRAPPING
Applying an Elastic Wrap

When applying elastic wraps, it is important to not get it too tight. This can result in
blood flow impairment, which will cause the athlete pain and have to be removed.
Only half of the stretch should be ‘‘pulled out’’ when applying elastic wraps. Pulling
all of the stretch out will result in the wrapping procedure being too tight. If not
enough stretch is pulled out, the wrap will not be supportive enough.
When starting a wrap, ‘‘dog-ear’’ the corner as you begin (see Fig. 2-19).
Basically, upon circling the body part once with the wrap, fold the top corner (at
the start) of the wrap down. On the next revolution with the wrap go right over the
‘‘dog-ear.’’ This will help ‘‘lock’’ the wrap in place to minimize slippage.
Figure 2-19 Dog-ear the wrap to help keep it in place.

Also, when applying elastic wraps start from the bottom and work up toward
the body or torso. In technical terms, start distally (away from the body/torso) and
work proximally (toward the body/torso). For example, when wrapping an ankle,
start at the base of the toes and work up toward the shin. The reason for this is
to ‘‘push’’ swelling toward the body. If the wrap was applied starting from the
top and it got too tight, swelling would accumulate below the wrap trapping it in
the extremity. This is opposite to the goal which is to get the swelling out of the
extremity. Knowing where to start an elastic wrap is crucial when wrapping the area
because of an acute (new, less than 2 weeks) injury.
After the wrap has been applied, it should be covered with one layer of light-duty,
adhesive, elastic tape. Light-duty, nonadhesive tape such as Powerflex does not work
as well here because it tends to roll down throughout the course of a practice and/or
game. The adhesive elastic tape holds much better. Again, start at the bottom of the
wrapping procedure and work upward toward the body. This tape will also give
extra support to the muscle or whatever anatomy is being wrapped. It is also a good
idea to apply a few strips of nonelastic tape over the end of the light-duty tape. This
helps prevent the light-duty elastic tape from unraveling, which it is prone to do
when not anchored down.
Wrapping Tips
If the elastic wrap tends to fall down during exercise, try spraying tape adherent over
the skin area to be wrapped before application (this tends to help quite considerably).
Figure 2-20 Low-density padding.

On a side note, wrapping over spandex/lycra type materials will result in the wrap
slipping for sure. Ideally, the wrap needs to be applied directly to the skin.
Special Considerations when Wrapping

Using Padding with Elastic Wraps
When using elastic wraps for muscle strains (stretching or tearing of muscle tissue),
it is sometimes helpful to insert low-density padding underneath the elastic wrap
(see Fig. 2-20). This increases the amount of pressure on the injured area, which
typically decreases the amount of pain. Padding may have to be applied a few days
following the injury because of the discomfort from the swelling and tenderness of
the injury.
Using low-density pads with acute injuries will also aid in the control and
prevention of swelling (see Fig. 2-21). The addition of low-density pads can help
push the swelling out of the joint, which is ideal. Swelling that accumulates and
stays in the joint will reduce the athlete’s flexibility, which will delay healing. This
swelling will also inhibit proper blood flow around the injury resulting in secondary
tissue damage. The prevention of swelling is very important.
Figure 2-21 Using low-density pads with acute injuries will also aid in the control and pre-
vention of swelling.
C H A P T E R
Basic Injury and Wound

3 Care
Objectives
X Describe the injury process
X Describe the proper treatment following an injury
X Identify common types of injuries and wounds
X Demonstrate the proper skills needed to clean and dress wounds
X Define terminology related to injuries and wound care
22
CHAPTER 3 • Basic Injury and Wound Care 23
The Injury Process

It is important to understand the basics of what happens after an injury. The injury
process is complex and made up of three different phases. It is helpful to understand
the three phases by comparing them to a ‘‘house fire.’’ The first phase resembles
the actual fire or damage caused to the house. The second phase is the process of
removing debris and starting to rebuild the damaged structure. The last phase can
be thought of as putting the final touches on the house and restoring it to its original
condition.
The first phase, the inflammatory phase, happens immediately following the
injury and lasts up to 48 to 72 hours. In this phase, the body responds to injury
by producing swelling at the injured site (see Fig. 3-1). Initially following an injury,
blood vessels around the injured site constrict (get smaller in diameter). This slows
the flow of blood and allows the damaged blood vessels time to form clots. After
a few minutes, however, the blood vessels dilate (get larger in diameter), increasing
blood flow to the area. This phase is where most of the swelling occurs.
Figure 3-1 Badly swollen ankle.
The next phase, the repair phase, starts after about 48 to 72 hours and continues
to about 3 to 4 weeks (or about 1 month) post injury. In this phase, scar tissue
develops which lays the foundation for the next phase.
The third and final stage is the remodeling phase, which starts at about a month
post injury and can last from several months to a year. In this phase, scar tissue is
‘‘remodeled’’ to form ‘‘replacement’’ tissue that was damaged in the injury.
Treating Injuries
When treating injuries, it is important to know whether the injury is acute (new,
less than 2 weeks) or chronic (old, more than 2 weeks). If the injury is acute, then
it is important to follow the RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation) method
discussed below. If the injury happens to be chronic in nature, then the RICE method
does not have to be used.
With acute injuries it is important to use the RICE method for the first 48 to
72 hours at the very least. This is the same time frame of the inflammatory phase
of the injury process. It is important to rest the injured body part during this phase
so that further injury and swelling does not occur. Also, in this phase recall how
the blood vessels constricted initially but then dilated after a few minutes. Ideally,
the blood vessels would stay constricted for a longer period of time, allowing the
damaged blood vessels more time to form clots and prevent leakage. By applying
ice to the skin, the underlying blood vessels, in theory, respond by constricting and
limiting blood flow to the area. This helps prevent a lot of additional swelling from
accumulating. The ice should be removed after 15 to 20 minutes as the body may
respond by dilating the blood vessels if left for longer period. The body typically
produces too much swelling for its own good. Ice helps override and counteract this
process to keep swelling to a minimum and at the same time providing pain control.
Compression can be applied to the injured area in the form of an elastic wrap. By
applying compression, swelling is forced out of the injured area as well as some
being prevented all together. By combining ice and compression with elevation, the
ideal treatment for acute injuries is achieved (see Fig. 3-2). Elevation utilizes gravity
to aid in reducing the amount of swelling in the injured area. Proper elevation means
that the injured body part is above the injured person’s heart. For example, an
athlete with an injured ankle should lie down and place several pillows under the
injured ankle to elevate the ankle above the heart. The RICE method is very effective
at reducing and preventing swelling if each part is followed as stated above. It is
important that heat should not be applied during the first 3 to 4 days following an
injury as it will cause more swelling. This will in turn slow down the healing process.
Figure 3-2 With acute injuries it is important to use the RICE method.
When dealing with chronic injuries, heat is the ideal choice of treatment. With
chronic injuries being old or more than 2 weeks in nature, the removal of swelling
is the main goal. The body responds to heat by dilating the blood vessels directly
underneath it. This dilation increases blood flow to the area, which can speed up the
healing process. Therefore by applying heat to the injured area several times a day
for 15 to 20 minutes, the injury can be healed at a faster rate.
The Most Common Types of Closed Injuries

and Wounds
Sprain: Damage to ligaments and/or joint capsule
Strain: Damage to muscles and/or tendons
Contusion: Bruise; compression of muscle and other soft
tissue
CHAPTER 3 • Basic Injury and Wound Care 25
Tendonitis: Inflammation of the tendon

Abrasion: Superficial burn to the skin caused by friction,
‘‘strawberry’’
Laceration: Irregular or jagged cut made by blunt object
Incision: Straight cut made by sharp object
Treating Open Wounds

Minor wounds are best treated by washing the wound with soap and water. If
hydrogen peroxide is available it can be poured over the wound. Hydrogen peroxide
has an effervescent property, which causes the wounded area to ‘‘bubble up.’’ This
‘‘bubbling’’ helps bring debris to the surface so that it can be wiped or washed away.
Next, the wound should be dried and ointment should be applied to the area such
as zinc oxide or antibiotic ointment. Then, a sterile dressing such as gauze should
be used to cover the wound. This dressing can be held in place by roll gauze or
an elastic wrap. The dressing should be changed and the area cleaned daily and
inspected for signs and symptoms of infection (see Chapter 2).
Major wounds should be treated by appropriate medical personnel as soon as
possible. It is important to control any bleeding and limit the chances of shock
until help arrives. Bleeding can usually be controlled by direct pressure over the
injury. However, if bleeding continues, the body part can be elevated and/or pressure
applied to the pressure points. The pressure points are located on the inside of the
upper arm (brachial artery) and the inside upper thigh (femoral artery). For example,
if there is a bleeding wound on the hand, pressure can be applied to the inside, upper
arm to reduce the pressure of blood flow to the wound. This reduction in blood
flow/pressure makes it easier for the damaged blood vessels of the wound to clot.
If a lot of blood is lost, the victim can go into shock. To help prevent this, place
a blanket over the victim to keep him/her warm. If there are no injuries to the leg,
hip, or spine, have the victim lie on the back and elevate his/her legs about a foot
higher than the body. This helps to keep the majority of blood in the upper part of
the body where it is needed by the vital organs.
P A R T
II
Lower Extremity
C H A P T E R
4 Lower Leg
Objectives
X Recognize basic anatomy of the lower leg
X Define basic medical terms related to the lower leg
X Recognize common mechanisms of injury of the lower leg
X Effectively tape and wrap common injuries of the lower leg
27
28 PART II • Lower Extremity
Lower Leg Anatomy

Musculature
Figure 4-1 Lower limb surface landmarks (anterior view). Location of super-
ficial muscles in leg, location of deep muscles in leg, and surface landmarks.
(From Premkumar K. The massage connection anatomy and physiology.
Baltimore: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2004.)
CHAPTER 4 • Lower Leg 29
Figure 4-2 Lower limb surface landmarks (posterior view). Location of superficial muscles of
leg, location of soleus, and surface landmarks. (From Premkumar K. The massage connection
anatomy and physiology. Baltimore: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2004.)
Figure 4-3 Tendons and vessels on the dorsum of foot. A. Location of tendons on the dorsum
of foot; B. Surface landmarks. (From Premkumar K. The massage connection anatomy and
physiology. Baltimore: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2004.)
Ankle Ligaments
Figure 4-4 Ligaments of the ankle (talocrural) joint (lateral view). (Asset provided by Anatom-
ical Chart Co.)
Figure 4-5 Ligaments of the ankle (talocrural) joint (medial view). (Asset provided by
Anatomical Chart Co.)
This procedure is used for inversion ankle sprains, eversion

Ankle sprain
ankle sprains, high-ankle sprains, and general ankle pain
Injury Description
With inversion (sole of foot facing inward) sprains, the lateral (away from middle of body) ankle ligaments/tendons are
affected. Eversion (sole of foot facing outward) sprains affect the exact opposite, the medial (toward the midline of the
body) ligaments/tendons. Inversion sprains happen about 80% of the time compared to eversion sprains. This is mainly
because of the bony anatomy of the ankle.
Goal of Procedure
To provide extra support for the ligaments and/or tendons of the injured side of the foot/ankle by limiting motion.
Supplies Needed
• Tape adherent
• Heel and lace pads
• Pre-wrap
• 1 1/2 or 2 non-elastic tape (either size can
be used but 1 1/2 is generally easier for
beginners)
Patient Positioning
Athlete should be sitting down with the lower legs extending
over the end of the table. The athlete’s lower leg should
be exposed from the base of the calf to the foot with the
foot/ankle in the neutral position (see Fig. 4-6).
Figure 4-6
(continued)
Ankle sprain
Step-by-Step
1. Apply tape adherent to the skin where the tape will be
applied. Also place lubricated heel and lace pads on the
back of the heel and top of the foot at the bends for
blister prevention. If using prewrap, apply now (see
Fig. 4-7). Remember, taping to the skin will provide
maximum support.
Figure 4-7
2. Using the 1 1/2 nonelastic tape, apply (2–3) anchor

strips around the base of the calf, slightly overlapping
each one toward the foot. Apply another anchor strip
around the midfoot making sure it is not too tight (see
Fig. 4-8).
Figure 4-8
3. Starting on the medial side of the anchor strips at the

base of the calf, apply the tape down toward the heel,
continuing underneath the heel and coming back up the
lower leg on the lateral side and ending on the anchor
strips on the lateral side of the base of the calf. Apply
(2) more of these strips, slightly overlapping each one.
These strips are called ‘‘stirrups,’’ because of the
shape or design they make (see Fig 4-9).
Figure 4-9
(continued)
Ankle sprain
4. Starting at the last anchor strip applied on the calf,

apply more strips, overlapping and working toward
the ankle. Once at the lower ankle/foot, these strips
will turn into horseshoe-shaped strips, meaning the
two ends will not meet or touch each other at the
front like the circular strips do as described earlier (see
Fig. 4-10).
Figure 4-10
5. Starting on the inside of the ankle (just like a stirrup

strip) apply the tape downward and underneath the
foot but instead of coming up on the opposite side
like a stirrup, angle the tape toward the top of the
foot and on to the original starting position of the
strip. Cross over the original strip and around the
back of the calf and meet again at the original starting
strip. This taping support strip is called a ‘‘figure 8,’’
for the shape that it makes/resembles (see Fig. 4-11).
Figure 4-11
6. Starting on the anterior (toward the front) inside of the

shin above the ankle, angle the tape behind the heel,
continuing directly underneath the foot and back over
to the top of the ankle and repeating the same
procedure going in the opposite direction. Repeat
these strips (1) more time. These strips are referred to
as ‘‘heel locks,’’ as they literally ‘‘lock’’ the heel in
place (see Fig. 4-12).
Figure 4-12
7. If using any extra support strips for added protection

for recent or not fully healed ankle sprains, do so here
right after the heel lock strips.
8. Make sure there are no holes (openings in the tape)
anywhere from anchor to anchor with the exception
of the heel being uncovered. If there are holes, fill in
as needed with tape.
9. Starting at the very first anchor strip at the base of the
calf reapply ‘‘closure’’ strips overlapping all the way
down to the ankle. Reapply another strip of tape over
the midfoot anchor (see Fig. 4-13). Figure 4-13
(continued)
Ankle sprain
10. Starting on the inside of the ankle again, apply

another ‘‘figure 8’’ strip as described in Step no. 5
(see Fig. 4-14).
11. Smooth tape down and conform to the body.
12. Have the athlete stand and put weight on the tape
and walk around a couple of times to see if the tape is
too tight or not tight enough. If it is too tight or too
loose, the athlete will need to be retaped.
Figure 4-14
TIPS, HINTS, AND TRICKS COMMON MISTAKES
When taping an eversion ankle sprain, simply reverse 1. Pulling tape too tightly around the midfoot will cause
the sides where the inversion support strips start. restriction resulting in pain
With inversion sprains as described earlier, all 2. Taping with the athlete’s foot relaxed (not in neutral
supporting strips start on the inside first. With position) which will result in the tape being too tight
eversion, all supporting strips start on the outside.
3. Applying the strips in the wrong direction (inver-
sion/eversion) which will affect the effectiveness of
the taping procedure
Special ankle
support strips These strips are used for acute and chronic ankle sprains
Injury Description
With inversion (sole of foot facing inward) sprains, the lateral (away from middle of body) ankle ligaments/tendons are
affected. Eversion (sole of foot facing outward) sprains affect the exact opposite, the medial (toward the midline of the
body) ligaments/tendons. Inversion sprains happen about 80% of the time compared to eversion sprains. This is mainly
because of the bony anatomy of the ankle.
Goal of Procedure
To provide additional support to injured ankle ligaments/tendons using heavier tape.
Supplies Needed
• 2 or 3 heavy-duty elastic tape
• Tape scissors or tape cutters
Patient Positioning
Athlete should be sitting down with the lower legs extending over the end of the table. The athlete’s lower leg should be
exposed from the base of the calf to the foot with the foot/ankle in the neutral position. This is the same position for
taping the ankle.
(continued)
Special ankle
support strips
Step-by-Step
These strips are to be applied just after the heel locks are applied in an ankle sprain taping procedure. Usually, only one
special ankle support strip is applied according to the athlete’s or the taper’s preference. Applying two or more of these
strips to a regular ankle tape job would result in too much tape to cut off.
Double Heel Lock (Helmer and Helberg) Strip

1. Using 2 or 3 adhesive, heavy-duty elastic tape, start
on the medial lower leg just like a stirrup strip and
continue underneath the foot and come over the top of
the ankle and continue into a heel lock (see Fig. 4-15).
Figure 4-15
2. On the second and final heel lock, instead of spiraling

around the lower leg, come up just like a stirrup on the
lateral leg (see Fig. 4-16). It is basically just combining
stirrups with heel locks.
Figure 4-16
Double Figure Eight (Sunderland) Strip

1. Using 2 or 3 adhesive, heavy-duty elastic tape, start
on medial lower leg just like a stirrup strip and continue
underneath the foot and come over the top of the ankle
and continue into a figure 8 strip (see Fig. 4-17).
Figure 4-17
(continued)
Special ankle
support strips
2. Instead of stopping on the same side like a figure 8

does, continue on to another figure 8 and end up in a
stirrup on the lateral leg (see Fig. 4-18). It is basically
just combining stirrups and figure 8s.
Figure 4-18
Spartan Strip
1. Cut off about a 2-ft length of 2 or 3 adhesive,
heavy-duty elastic tape and at each end cut a snip in the
middle. Grab each end of strip and apply to the plantar
(sole of foot) surface of the foot. This strip starts out just
like one big stirrup (see Fig. 4-19).
Figure 4-19
2. Take one end and stretch it upward on the outside of

the lower leg and tear the tape end down the middle
using the snip created earlier. Tear all the way until the
tear reaches the malleolus (big ankle bone sticking
out on that side). Take each end around the
ankle/lower leg. Repeat the same procedure on the
opposite side (see Fig. 4-20).
Figure 4-20
When taping an eversion ankle sprain, simply reverse 1. Pulling tape too tightly around the midfoot will cause
the sides where the inversion support strips start. restriction resulting in pain
With inversion sprains as described earlier, all 2. Taping with the athlete’s foot relaxed (not in neutral
supporting strips start on the inside first. With position) which will result in the tape being too tight
eversion, all supporting strips start on the outside.
3. Applying the strips in the wrong direction (inver-
sion/eversion) which will affect the effectiveness of
taping procedure
Achilles’
tendonitis/strain Used for Achilles’ tendonitis and Achilles’ strain
Injury Description
The Achilles’ tendon which attaches the calf muscles to the calcaneus (heel bone) is commonly injured. It can be
strained by stepping in a hole or developing tendonitis, which is an inflammation of the tendon usually caused by overuse.
Goal of Procedure
To support the Achilles’ tendon whether it be tendonitis or a strain. In essence, the taper is creating a ‘‘secondary’’
tendon to help take pressure off the real Achilles’ tendon. This is one of the main purposes for taping.
Supplies Needed
• Tape adherent
• Prewrap
• 2 or 3 light-duty elastic tape (adhesive)
• 2 or 3 heavy-duty elastic tape
• 1 1/2 nonelastic tape
Patient Positioning
Athlete should be sitting with the lower legs extending off
the edge of the table exposing the leg from the base of the
calf to the foot (see Fig. 4-21). The foot/ankle should be
relaxed when applying the Achilles’ strips. When taping the
ankle at the end of the Achilles’ procedure, the foot/ankle
should be in the neutral position (foot at 0 degrees). Because
of the tension of the Achilles’ tape, the taper will have to
use his/her chest to keep foot in neutral position to apply
ankle taping.
Figure 4-21
Step-by-Step
back of the heel and top of the foot at the bends for
blister prevention. If using prewrap, apply now (see
Fig. 4-22). Remember, taping to the skin will provide
maximum support.
Figure 4-22
(continued)
Achilles’
tendonitis/strain
2. Place a strip of 2 or 3 light-duty adhesive elastic tape

around the calf starting just above the belly of the
gastrocnemius calf muscle. It should be about 6 below
the knee cap. Apply one more strip slightly overlapping
toward the foot. These are the top anchor strips. Using
the 2 or 3 adhesive elastic tape, apply one strip to
the ball of the foot, encircling the base of the toes.
When applying the anchor strips above, make sure the
foot/ankle is in neutral position (see Fig. 4-23).
Figure 4-23
3. Have athlete relax the foot/ankle. Using the 2 or 3

heavy-duty elastic tape, apply a strip starting from the
anchor strip on the bottom of the foot at the base of the
toes and pulling it toward the anchor strips around the
calf muscles. Snip the calf end with scissors and tear the
strip down the middle until at the base of the calf. Wrap
the two ends toward the front of the lower leg. Make
sure not to pull all of the stretch out of the tape when
applying these strips. Apply two more identical strips
slightly overlapping the first strip. Pinch these three
strips together around the Achilles’ tendon area at the Figure 4-24
back of the foot. Be careful not to pinch the athlete’s
skin (see Fig. 4-24).
4. Reposition athlete into the sitting up position with legs
extended off edge of table and place the foot/ankle into
the neutral position or as close to it as possible.
Reapply the anchor strips as in Step no. 2.
5. Keeping the foot/ankle in the neutral position, apply an
inversion ankle tape job over the Achilles’ taping
procedure to prevent ankle sprains (see Fig. 4-25).
6. Smooth tape down and conform it to the body.
7. Have the athlete stand and put weight on the tape and
walk around to see if the tape is too tight or not tight
enough. If it is too tight or too loose, the athlete will Figure 4-25
need to be retaped.
This taping procedure should be combined as 1. Pulling the tape too tightly
described earlier with the inversion ankle taping 2. Not starting the anchor strips properly—either too
procedure because taping the Achilles’ tendon pulls low on the base of the calf or too high upon the
the ankle into inversion and plantar flexion (pointing midfoot
toes toward ground), thus increasing the chances of
3. Taping with the athlete’s foot in the improper posi-
the athlete spraining his/her ankle.
tion which will result in the tape being too tight or
decreasing its effectiveness
Shin splints
Used for shin splints
Injury Description
Shin splints are an overuse/fatigue condition of the lower leg muscles and/or arches of the foot. People who
over-pronate (have flat feet) are more likely to have shin splints. Increases in training without time for the body to adapt
to those increases will lead to shin splints. Any change in routine can cause them as well, such as new shoes, change in
running surface, increase in distance, time or duration, etc.
Goal of Procedure
To support the muscles of the posteriomedial (back, and inside) portion of the lower leg; namely, the posterior tibialis
muscle, which is the most commonly affected muscle in shin splints.
Supplies Needed
• Tape adherent
• Prewrap
• 2 or 3 light-duty elastic tape (either size/adhesive quality may be
used here)
Patient Positioning
Figure 4-26
Step-by-Step
applied. If using prewrap, apply now (see Fig. 4-27).
Remember, taping to the skin will provide maximum
support.
Figure 4-27
(continued)
Shin splints
2. Starting right above the bend of the ankle apply the first
adhesive or nonadhesive elastic tape strip on the front
of the shin, continuing behind the leg in a circular
pattern and ending up on the outside of the shin. Tear
tape. Continue up to the base of the calf with additional
overlapping strips. Remember the angles of the shin
discussed previously in Chapter 2 when applying the
tape strips (see Fig. 4-28).
Figure 4-28
3. Repeat Step no. 2 using the nonelastic tape this time.

Once finished, there should be two layers of tape (see
Fig. 4-29).
enough. If it is too tight or too loose, the athlete will
need to be retaped.
Figure 4-29
Because shin splints are sometimes related to 1. Pulling tape too tightly
weaknesses of the arches of the foot, not just 2. Taping with the athlete’s foot relaxed (not in neutral
muscle strain/fatigue, the athlete’s arches should be position) which will result in the tape being too tight
taped and the antipronation tape strips should be
3. Applying the strips in the wrong direction which will
used as well to achieve maximum results. The
affect the effectiveness of taping procedure
athletes who seem to never get rid of shin splint pain
are often over-pronators. These athletes usually will
require permanent orthotics (custom-made
supports) prescribed by their doctor.
Antipronation
strips Used for shin splints, arch pain
Injury Description
Shin splints are an overuse/fatigue condition of the lower leg muscles and/or arches of the foot. People who
over-pronate (have flat feet) are more likely to have shin splints. Increases in training without time for the body to adapt
to those increases will lead to shin splints. Any change in routine can cause them as well, such as new shoes, change in
running surface, increase in distance, time or duration, etc.
(continued)
Antipronation
strips
Goal of Procedure
To support muscles such as the posterior tibialis as well as the medial arch in general. The athlete usually has some
degree of pes planus (flat feet) but not always. The goal is to keep the foot from over-pronating or rolling inward,
thereby putting a lot of stress on the medial arch and musculature.
Supplies Needed
• Tape adherent
• Prewrap
Patient Positioning
foot/ankle in the neutral position (see Fig. 4-30). Once in
neutral position, place the ankle into slight inversion (sole of
foot facing inward).
Figure 4-30
Step-by-Step
applied. If using prewrap, apply now. Remember,
taping to the skin will provide maximum support (see
Fig. 4-31).
Figure 4-31
(continued)
Antipronation
strips
2. Start the first strip of 1 1/2 nonelastic tape at the top of

the foot and at the bend of the ankle and continue to
the outside of the foot, underneath and back over the
starting point making sure to go over the navicular
tubercle which can be felt as a hard, prominent lump on
the inside of the foot. Continue on around the shin
once and end the strip on the lateral side of the shin.
Apply two more of these strips to complete the
procedure (see Fig. 4-32).
4. Have the athlete stand and put weight on the tape and Figure 4-32
need to be retaped.
This taping procedure is usually combined with shin 1. Pulling tape too tightly
splint and/or arch taping to provide additional 2. Taping with the athlete’s foot relaxed or not properly
support and pain relief. This strip could also be positioned which will result in the tape being too
called a ‘‘figure 6,’’ as it forms the shape of a tight
numeral six but it is not a true ‘‘figure 6’’ strip.
affect the effectiveness of the taping procedure
Arch strain/sprain Used for fallen arches, shin splints, arch sprain, arch strain,
or plantar fasciitis plantar fasciitis
Injury Description
There are four distinct arches of the foot. The arches are formed by the bony structures and are supported by bands of
tissue that help take stress off certain areas of the bones. The main arch is the medial longitudinal arch. There are also
lower leg muscles that help support the arch such as the posterior tibialis. In some cases, the arch itself is sprained and in
others, the lower leg muscle tendons are strained. In either case, arch pain results. Pain can also be caused by the
plantar fascia (band of tissue stretching from ball of foot to the heel). It supports the arch and can sometimes get
irritated and become tight and inflamed, thereby causing pain.
Goal of Procedure
To support the muscles/tendons and arches of the foot. This may be used for an arch strain or sprain.
Supplies Needed
• Tape adherent
• Prewrap
• 2 or 3 light-duty elastic tape (adhesive works best but either can be
used)
• 1 nonelastic tape
(continued)
Arch strain/sprain
or plantar fasciitis
Patient Positioning
over the end of the table. The athlete’s foot and ankle should
be exposed. The foot/ankle should be kept in the neutral
position (see Fig. 4-33).
Figure 4-33
Step-by-Step
Remember, taping to the skin will provide maximum
support.
Figure 4-34
2. Apply the first of two anchor strips by using the 2 or

3 elastic tape to apply a strip around the ball of the
foot. Next, apply the second anchor strip from the base
of the big toe around the back of the heel to the base of
the little toe using the 1 1/2 nonelastic tape (see
Fig. 4-35).
Figure 4-35
(continued)
Arch strain/sprain
3. Apply two ‘‘X’’ strips using the 1 nonelastic tape. Start
the ‘‘X’’ strips on the bottom of the foot at the base of
the fourth/fifth toes. Continue the tape strips to the
inside back of the heel, around the heel and ending at
the base of the big toe on the bottom of the foot. This
creates an ‘‘X’’ pattern on the bottom of the foot.
Slightly overlap the second strip (see Fig. 4-36).
Figure 4-36
4. Apply two ‘‘tear-drop’’ strips using the 1 nonelastic

tape. Start the ‘‘tear-drop’’ strips at the base of the big
toe on the side of the foot continuing around the back
of the heel, under the arch and ending at the starting
point. This creates a ‘‘tear-drop’’ pattern on the bottom
of the foot. Slightly overlap the second strip (see
Fig. 4-37).
Figure 4-37
5. Starting on the outside of the heel, use the 1 1/2

nonelastic tape and pull the tape to the inside of the
foot crossing the bottom of the foot. Continue
overlapping the same strip until the foot is covered up
to the ball of the foot. Make sure tape is pulled from
outside of foot to the inside of the foot (see Fig. 4-38).
Figure 4-38
(continued)
Arch strain/sprain
6. Apply a closure strip of 1 1/2 nonelastic tape over the

second anchor strip (from the base of the big toe
around the back of the heel to the base of the little toe).
Using the 2 or 3 elastic tape, apply a second closure
strip over the first anchor strip around the ball of the
foot (see Fig. 4-39).
need to be retaped. Figure 4-39
Athletes may have flat, regular, or high arches. Flat 1. Pulling tape too tightly around the ball of the foot
arches tend to cause generalized foot pain and shin will cause restriction resulting in pain
splints. High arches tend to cause plantar fasciitis, 2. Taping with the athlete’s foot relaxed (not in neutral
higher incidence of ankle sprains, and hammer toes. position) which will result in the tape being too tight
Some athlete’s feet over-pronate (flat feet) and some
over-supinate (high arches). Over-pronators tend to
affect the effectiveness of the taping procedure
wear the inside sole of the shoes more and
over-supinators the outside soles. Those athletes
may need permanent orthotics (custom-made
supports) prescribed by a doctor.
Turf toe
Used for big toe sprain (turf toe)
Injury Description
Another description for turf toe is great toe sprain. This is a hyperextension to the great or big toe. Usually the great toe
is bent in an awkward direction damaging the ligaments on the sides of the toe. These are called ‘‘collateral (side)
ligaments.’’
Goal of Procedure
To support the ligaments of the big toe joint and to limit motion.
Supplies Needed
• Tape adherent
• 2 light-duty, elastic tape or prewrap (may use any of the previously
mentioned)
(continued)
Turf toe
Patient Positioning
position (see Fig. 4-40).
Figure 4-40
Step-by-Step
applied. If using prewrap apply now (see Fig. 4-41).
Remember, taping to the skin with the adhesive tape
will provide maximum support.
Figure 4-41
2. Start by applying (2) anchor strips. The first anchor

strip is applied around the midfoot area using the 2
adhesive tape or nonadhesive tape. The second anchor
strip is applied around the end of the big toe covering
up the nail using the 1 nonelastic tape (see Fig. 4-42).
Figure 4-42
(continued)
Turf toe
3. The next strips are called ‘‘banana’’ strips. These strips

are applied starting on the top of the foot extending
from the toe anchor strip to the midfoot anchor strip.
Keep applying these 1 nonelastic tape strips
overlapping each one until the toe is covered from top
around to the bottom (see Fig. 4-43).
Figure 4-43
4. Take the 1 nonelastic tape and tear off a strip about a
foot in length. Hold the tape at each end and slide it in
between the big toe and second toe with the adhesive
side toward the big toe. Once the tape strip is at the
base of the big toe and the big toe is in the middle,
criss-cross the tape ends forming an ‘‘X’’ pattern on the
inside of the big toe joint. Apply two more of these
strips overlapping each one (see Fig. 4-44).
Figure 4-44
5. Reapply the anchor strips as in Step no. 2 around the

end of the big toe and the midfoot to finish the
procedure (see Fig. 4-45).
need to be retaped.
Figure 4-45
Athletes with turf toe will benefit from this taping 1. Pulling tape too tightly especially around the mid-
procedure but will also be helped by a semirigid foot area
orthotic placed in the bottom of the shoe adding 2. Taping with the athlete’s foot relaxed (not in neutral
additional support. position) which will result in the tape job being too
tight
Heel bruise
Used for heel ‘‘stone’’ bruise, plantar fasciitis
Injury Description
The calcaneus (heel bone) has a fat pad on the bottom or plantar (sole of foot) surface. Stepping on a rock can cause
a bruise to the heel resulting in severe pain.
Goal of Procedure
To provide more cushion and pain relief by ‘‘squeezing’’ the fat pad on the bottom of the heel together creating more
padding.
Supplies Needed
• Tape adherent
Patient Positioning
position. Apply tape adherent to the skin where the tape will
be applied. Prewrap should not be used for this procedure as
it will drastically reduce the effectiveness. Remember, taping
to the skin will provide maximum support (see Fig. 4-46).
Figure 4-46
Step-by-Step
1. Starting underneath the lateral malleolus, apply a strip
of 1 1/2 tape, continuing around the posterior heel and
ending underneath the medial malleolus (see Fig. 4-47).
Figure 4-47
(continued)
Heel bruise
2. Using the same tape, apply a strip starting on the

previous tape strip, on the lateral heel continuing
underneath the bottom of the foot and ending on the
previous tape strip, on the inside of the foot/heel. Make
sure to put good tension on the tape when pulling this
strip toward the inside of the foot (see Fig. 4-48).
Figure 4-48
3. Next, repeat the same strip in Step no. 1 overlapping

the strip toward the bottom of the foot. Then, repeat
the same strip in Step no. 2 overlapping it toward the
toes/front of the foot. Once the whole heel is covered
with this ‘‘basket weaving’’ method the tape job is
finished (see Fig. 4-49).
need to be retaped. Figure 4-49
The effectiveness of this procedure is often 1. Pulling the tape too tightly
overlooked because of its simplicity. It may look 2. Not pulling the tape tight enough
simple but it is very effective. It works especially well
3. Not applying over the entire heel
with plantar fasciitis. Athletes will feel a noticeable
difference with this taping procedure. Also, when
using this procedure for plantar fasciitis, applying an
arch strain/sprain tape job over the heel bruise
taping procedure can bring added relief.
Ankle sprain wrap

Used for ankle sprains, foot sprains
Injury Description
With inversion (sole of foot facing inward) sprains, the lateral (toward the outside of the body) ankle
ligaments/tendons are affected. Eversion (sole of foot facing outward) sprains affect the exact opposite, the medial
(toward the middle of the body) ligaments/tendons.
Goal of Procedure
To provide compression and support to the postinjured foot/ankle joint to limit pain and swelling. This is not meant to be
worn for competition.
Supplies Needed
• 3 or 4 elastic wrap
• Low-density padding cut into horseshoe shape (can use without pad but
would not be as effective)
Patient Positioning
Figure 4-50
Step-by-Step
1. Apply the wrap starting at the base of the toes on the
top of the foot. Continue around foot and once at the
starting place, dog-ear the top edge of the starting end
and overlap it on the next revolution. It is important to
note that the wrap should be applied with more tension
at the base of the toes and as the wrap continues up
toward the calf, less tension should be applied. This
application of tension will allow swelling to not
accumulate as much in the foot/ankle and help ‘‘push’’
it toward the heart/lower leg (see Fig. 4-51).
Figure 4-51
(continued)
Ankle sprain wrap
2. Continue encircling the foot and as the bend of the

foot/ankle is reached on the top of the foot, place the
low-density pad horseshoe on the same side of the pain
and swelling. If there is pain and/or swelling on both
sides, put a pad on each side (see Fig. 4-52). As the
wrap continues over the top of the foot toward the
heel, take the wrap behind the heel, then come directly
underneath the foot and over the top of the foot
continuing this pattern on the other side once more.
These are called ‘‘heel locks,’’ just like the ones covered
in the ankle taping procedure. Figure 4-52
3. Continue the wrap over the top of the ankle and

directly over the heel coming back to the top of the
foot/ankle (see Fig. 4-53).
Figure 4-53
4. Continue the wrap underneath the foot coming up on

the other side on the top of the foot and continue the
wrap behind the lower calf, overlapping up toward the
calf until the end of the wrap is reached (see Fig. 4-54).
Figure 4-54
5. Use either the metal clips/clasps or tape to secure the

wrap. Try to end the wrap toward the front of the shin
if possible.
6. Have the athlete stand and put weight on the wrap and
walk around to see if the wrap is too tight or not tight
need to be rewrapped.
Figure 4-55
(continued)
Ankle sprain wrap
Only apply about half to three-quarters tension when 1. Pulling the wrap too tightly, thereby cutting off
applying elastic wraps. Too little or too much tension circulation
will not achieve desirable results. 2. Applying tension in the wrong direction – more at
the top than the bottom
3. Using high-density foam instead of low-density
foam, which will cause more pain
C H A P T E R
5 Knee
Objectives
X Recognize basic anatomy of the knee
X Define basic medical terms related to the knee
X Recognize common mechanisms of injury of the knee
X Effectively tape and wrap common injuries of the knee
53
Anatomy of the Knee

Musculature
Figure 5-1 Lower limb surface landmarks (anterior view). Location of mus-
cles in upper thigh, quadriceps femoris, and surface landmarks. (From
Premkumar K. The massage connection anatomy and physiology. Baltimore:
Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2004.)
CHAPTER 5 • Knee 55
Figure 5-2 Lower limb surface landmarks (posterior view). Location of superficial muscles in
the posterior aspect of thigh, location of deep muscles in the posterior aspect of thigh, and
surface landmarks. (From Premkumar K. The massage connection anatomy and physiology.
Baltimore: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2004.)
Ligaments
Figure 5-3 Ligaments of right knee joint (anterior view). (Asset provided by Anatomical Chart
Co.)
Figure 5-4 Ligaments of the right knee joint (posterior view). (Asset provided by Anatomical
Chart Co.)
Used for medial collateral ligament (MCL) and lateral

Knee sprain
collateral ligament (LCL) instability; knee hyperextension
Injury Description
Knee sprains typically injure one of the four major ligaments of the knee. The ligament on the medial (toward the middle
of the body) side of the knee is called the medial collateral ligament, or MCL, and the lateral (toward the outside
of the body) ligament, the lateral collateral ligament, or LCL. Collateral means ‘‘side.’’ The ligament of the
anterior (toward the front) knee is called the anterior cruciate ligament, or ACL, and the posterior ligament is
called the posterior cruciate ligament, or PCL. Cruciate means ‘‘cross.’’ These ligaments are strong but the knee
is one of the most unstable joints of the body. The MCL is typically injured by a valgus (knock-kneed force) stress as the
LCL is typically injured by a varus (bow-legged force) stress.
Goal of Procedure
To provide extra support to the ligaments of the knee joint; the ‘‘Xs’’ of the taping procedure cross over the ligament that
it is supporting.
Supplies Needed
• Prewrap
• 2 heavy-duty elastic tape
• 2 or 3 light-duty adhesive elastic tape (heavy-duty elastic tape can be used
but it will get bulky)
Patient Positioning
The athlete should be standing with equal weight on both
legs approximately a shoulder’s width apart. Place a roll of
tape underneath the heel of the leg to be taped. The leg
should also be slightly flexed or bent (see Fig. 5-5). Have the
athlete contract the leg muscles to ensure the tape will not
be too tight.
Figure 5-5
(continued)
Knee sprain
Step-by-Step
back of the knee at the bend for blister prevention (see
Fig. 5-6).
Figure 5-6
2. Apply prewrap starting at the base of the calf and

continue to overlap all the way up to just below
midthigh (see Fig. 5-7).
Figure 5-7
(continued)
Knee sprain
3. Using 2 or 3 light-duty elastic tape, apply a strip

around the leg at the bottom of the prewrap (base of
calf). Continue overlapping strips until about 2 or 3
below the kneecap (see Fig. 5-8).
Figure 5-8
4. Using the same tape, start applying strips around the

bottom of the thigh working up the thigh until all the
prewrap is covered (see Fig. 5-9).
Figure 5-9
(continued)
Knee sprain
5. Using 2 heavy-duty elastic tape, apply two ‘‘X’’ strips

to both sides of the knee. Start the strips from the base
of the calf as shown and criss-cross each strip over the
side of the knee. If done properly, there should be a
‘‘diamond’’ border of tape surrounding the kneecap.
Each side of the ‘‘diamond’’ tape border should be at
least 1 away from the kneecap (see Fig. 5-10).
Figure 5-10
6. Using the same heavy-duty elastic tape, apply one

hyperextension strip to each side of the knee. Start the
strip on the front of the shin at the base of the calf and
continue to the back of the knee making sure the strip
passes only at the ‘‘bend’’ of the knee. Continue up
around the other side of the thigh and ending up on the
front, top of the thigh. Apply another strip on the
opposite side of the knee (see Fig. 5-11).
Figure 5-11
(continued)
Knee sprain
7. Using 2 or 3 light-duty elastic tape, close down the

taping procedure starting at the top of the thigh and
applying overlapping strips down to just above the
kneecap. Do the same thing starting at just below the
kneecap and apply overlapping strips toward the base
of the calf (see Fig. 5-12).
need to be retaped.
Figure 5-12
This taping procedure will feel very awkward to the 1. Athlete not flexing muscles during taping, which
athlete and will cause some limitation in movement, can cause procedure to be too tight
which is the purpose of the procedure. After 10 to 2. Applying tape border too close to kneecap causing
15 minutes the tape should loosen up some more the tape to rub or push on the kneecap, which will
but the athlete must know that there has to be some cause discomfort to the athlete
restriction of movement for the taping procedure to
3. Applying the tape too tight, as this will not allow the
work.
athlete to bend the knee much at all and/or causing
too much discomfort
4. Applying the hyperextension strips too low or too
high in the back of the knee causing the tape to
pinch either the calf or hamstring muscles
Patella (knee cap)

tendonitis Used for patella tendonitis
Injury Description
The quadriceps muscles in the anterior (toward the front) thigh attach to the patella (kneecap) via the patella tendon.
This tendon continues on over the patella and inserts on the tibial tuberosity of the proximal (toward the body/torso)
tibia. This tendon takes a lot of stress and punishment from the strong quadriceps muscles. Walking, running, standing,
sitting, and jumping all place stress upon this tendon. The patella tendon can respond to these stresses by becoming
inflamed and irritated (tendonitis). The area usually affected is between the bottom of the patella and where the tendon
attaches on the tibia.
Goal of Procedure
To absorb some of the forces placed upon the patella tendon/ligament by adding a ‘‘band’’ of prewrap that applies
pressure on the tendon itself.
Supplies Needed
• Prewrap
Patient Positioning
Athlete should be standing with equal weight on both legs
(see Fig. 5-13).
Figure 5-13
(continued)
Patella (knee cap)

tendonitis
Step-by-Step
1. Apply prewrap starting at the base of the calf and
continue to overlap all the way up to just below
midthigh (see Fig. 5-14).
Figure 5-14
2. Starting at the thigh end, roll the prewrap down to just

below the kneecap. Take the calf end and roll upward
until both rolls are touching (see Fig. 5-15).
Figure 5-15
(continued)
Patella (knee cap)

tendonitis
3. Take one roll and overlap the other creating a ‘‘band.’’

Adjust the band if needed so that it is just below the
kneecap in the ‘‘soft, mushy’’ part which is the mid
tendon (see Fig. 5-16).
walk around a couple of times to see if the wrap is too
tight. If it is too tight, it will need to be loosened by
pulling or tugging outward on the band of prewrap.
Figure 5-16
The band should be snug but it can get too tight. If it 1. Pulling the prewrap too tight
starts to cut off circulation, is painful, or the calf 2. Not pulling the prewrap tight enough
muscles start cramping, then stick two fingers
underneath the band and tug outward. This will
loosen the band a little. In the case of hairy legs, it is
less painful to shave the area beforehand, as the
prewrap will pull on hair when rolling the ends. It can
be done without shaving but there will be a lot of hair
pulling (pain) involved.
Used for knee sprain/strain, knee hyperextension, knee

Basic knee wrap
bursitis, general knee swelling
Injury Description
The ligament on the medial (toward the midline of the body) side of the knee is called the medial collateral
ligament, or MCL, and the lateral (away from the midline of the body) ligament, the lateral collateral ligament,
or LCL. Collateral means ‘‘side.’’ The ligament of the anterior (toward the front) knee is called the anterior
cruciate ligament, or ACL, and the posterior ligament is called the posterior cruciate ligament, or PCL.
Cruciate means ‘‘cross.’’ These ligaments are strong but the knee is one of the most unstable joints of the body. The
MCL is typically injured by a valgus (knock-kneed force) stress as the LCL is typically injured by a varus (bow-legged
force) stress.
Goal of Procedure
To keep constant pressure on the knee joint causing any excess swelling to be ‘‘pushed’’ out of the area. If applied soon
after injury, this procedure will also help prevent further swelling. If padding is available, apply to both sides of the knee
just over the MCL and LCL ligaments. This procedure is not meant to be worn for competition.
Supplies Needed
• 6 elastic wrap
• Low-density padding, if available
Patient Positioning
Athlete can be lying down or standing for this procedure
depending on whether they can bear any weight on the leg
or not (see Fig. 5-17).
Figure 5-17
(continued)
Basic knee wrap
Step-by-Step
1. Apply wrap starting at the base of the calf muscle and
continue around the leg. ‘‘Dog ear’’ the top corner of
the start of the wrap and on the next revolution cover
up the dog ear. This will lock the wrap in place and
keep it from slipping (see Fig. 5-18).
Figure 5-18
2. Keep overlapping the wrap up toward the thigh. Once

the wrap is just below the kneecap, if padding is
available, apply low-density padding to both sides of the
knee joint and continue the wrap upward (see
Fig. 5-19).
Figure 5-19
(continued)
Basic knee wrap
3. Continue the wrap upward remembering that the wrap

should be snugger at the bottom and looser at the top
(see Fig. 5-20).
4. Try to end the wrap on the front of the thigh if possible.
This makes it easier for the athlete to remove later. Use
the metal clips that come with the wrap or tape can also
be used to keep the end of the wrap in place. The end
of the wrap should be at least 6 above the kneecap.
Figure 5-20
Another wrap can be used if one is not enough to 1. Applying the wrap too tight which will constrict
properly cover the appropriate area. Double-length blood flow and cause numbness and pain
wraps can also be purchased from medical supply 2. Overlapping the wrap too much to where there is
companies in 4 or 6 lengths. not enough wrap left to finish the procedure
C H A P T E R
6 Hip/Thigh
Objectives
X Recognize basic anatomy of the hip
X Define basic medical terms related to the hip
X Recognize common mechanisms of injury of the hip
X Effectively tape and wrap common injuries of the hip
69
Anatomy of the Hip

Musculature
Figure 6-1 Lower limb surface landmarks (anterior view). Location of muscles
in upper thigh, quadriceps femoris, and surface landmarks. (From Premkumar K.
The massage connection anatomy and physiology. Baltimore: Lippincott Williams
& Wilkins; 2004.)
CHAPTER 6 • Hip/Thigh 71
Figure 6-2 Lower limb surface landmarks (posterior view). Location of superficial muscles in the
posterior aspect of thigh, location of deep muscles in the posterior aspect of thigh, and surface
landmarks. (From Premkumar K. The massage connection anatomy and physiology. Baltimore:
Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2004.)
Ligaments
Figure 6-3 Ligaments of the right hip joint (anterior view). (Asset provided by
Figure 6-4 Ligaments of the right hip joint (posterior view). (Asset provided
by Anatomical Chart Co.)
Hip pointer
contusion (bruise) Used for hip bruise
Injury Description
The area that is affected is the iliac crest of the pelvis. It is the top of what is considered the ‘‘hip’’ or pelvis bone. The
bony area is superficial (close to the skin’s surface) and has little soft tissue to absorb an impact. Several muscles are
attached on the iliac crest so when the area is bruised, those muscles are affected as well. Typically, there is significant
bleeding/swelling that occurs in this area; that makes it a fairly painful injury.
Goal of Procedure
To apply pressure and provide protection to the area of the hip that is bruised.
Supplies Needed
• 6 elastic wrap (depending upon size of athlete, another wrap may be
needed)
• High-density padding, if available
• 2 or 3 light-duty adhesive elastic tape
(continued)
Hip pointer
contusion (bruise)
Patient Positioning
approximately shoulder width apart (see Fig. 6-5). The area
of the injured hip should be exposed. Have the athlete
pull shorts/pants down enough to expose area. Maintain
athlete’s decency as much as possible.
Figure 6-5
Step-by-Step
1. Apply high-density padding if available over area that is
injured. Start applying wrap around the waist and upper
hip area over the pad. Make sure to ‘‘dog ear’’ the
wrap and lock it in place on the next ‘‘pass.’’ Make sure
the athlete inhales and holds the breath while applying
the elastic wrap. If needed, the athlete can take another
breath and hold it in if it takes longer than expected (see
Fig. 6-6).
Figure 6-6
(continued)
Hip pointer
contusion (bruise)
2. Continue overlapping wrap until there is no more wrap.

Try to end the wrap in the front of the waist or side of
the hip. Apply elastic clips or use tape to secure the end
of the wrap in place (see Fig. 6-7).
Figure 6-7
3. Using 2 or 3 light-duty, elastic tape, apply

overlapping strips over the top of the wrap starting at
the top and working down. This will help keep the
elastic wrap in place and prevent it from rolling. Make
sure the athlete inhales and holds the breath again
when applying tape over the wrap (see Fig. 6-8).
Figure 6-8
(continued)
Hip pointer
contusion (bruise)
Make sure the padding is at least twice the size of 1. Not making the padding big enough for the injured
the injury. Cut an ‘‘X’’ in the middle of the pad area
directly over the site of injury. This helps disperse the 2. Pulling the wrap too tight or not tight enough
blow to the uninjured area. 3. Applying wrap over spandex or lycra material which
will cause slippage
4. Not covering wrap with light-duty elastic tape, thus
letting the wrap slip down
Hip flexor strain

Used for hip flexor muscle strain
Injury Description
The hip flexor muscle group flexes the hip. These muscles are located in the front, upper thigh and help raise the leg.
Raising the knee up toward the chest is an example of hip flexion. The hip flexors are usually injured in running and
jumping activities. This muscle group is commonly strained.
Goal of Procedure
To provide support and restriction to the injured hip flexor muscle or muscle group.
Supplies Needed
• 4 or 6 elastic wrap (depending upon size, another wrap may be needed
for added length)
(continued)
Hip flexor strain
Patient Positioning
approximately shoulder width apart. Injured leg should be
slightly in front of other leg with knee bent slightly (see Fig.
6-9).
Figure 6-9
Step-by-Step
1. Apply wrap starting at mid-thigh and continue around
the leg. ‘‘Dog ear’’ the top corner of the start of the
wrap and on the next revolution cover the dog ear. This
will lock the wrap in place and keep it from slipping (see
Fig. 6-10).
Figure 6-10
(continued)
Hip flexor strain
2. Keep overlapping the wrap up the thigh toward the

waist. Once the wrap is just below the injured area, if
padding is available, apply low-density padding and
continue the wrap upward (see Fig. 6-11).
Figure 6-11
3. Once at the top of the thigh, continue around the waist

and back toward the top of the thigh. The wrap should
create an ‘‘X’’ over the top, front of the thigh. Make
sure the ‘‘X’’ is directly in the center of the thigh and
not to either side (see Fig. 6-12).
Figure 6-12
(continued)
Hip flexor strain
4. Try to end the wrap on the front of the thigh or waist if

possible. This makes it easier for the athlete to remove
it later. Use the metal clips that come with the wrap or
tape can also be used to keep the end of the wrap in
place.
either the lower thigh or waist and working the
opposite direction. This will help keep the elastic wrap
in place and prevent it from rolling (see Fig. 6-13).
Figure 6-13
Another wrap can be used if one is not enough to 1. Applying the wrap too tight, which can constrict
properly cover the appropriate area. Double-length blood flow causing numbness and pain
companies in 4 or 6 lengths. Make sure the pad is not enough wrap left to finish the procedure
twice the size of the injured area. 3. Criss-crossing the wrap (the ‘‘X’’) in front of the leg
too much to the inside, which can bind the genitalia
4. Athlete not flexing muscles during taping, which
can cause procedure to be too tight
Groin strain
Used for groin or adductor muscle strain
Injury Description
The groin or adductor muscle group adducts (toward the midline of body) the leg. These muscles are located in the
front, inside upper thigh and help pull the leg inward. Bringing the thighs together is an example of hip adduction. The
groin muscles are typically injured in running, jumping, and cutting activities. This muscle group is commonly strained.
Goal of Procedure
To provide support and restriction to the injured groin or adductor muscle or muscle group.
Supplies Needed
• 4 or 6 elastic wrap (depending upon size, another wrap may be needed
for added length)
Patient Positioning
slightly in front of other leg with knee bent slightly. The
injured leg should also be rotated to the inside (the knee
pointing toward the other knee). Finally, have the athlete
turn the torso (upper body) toward the injured side (see
Fig. 6-14).
Figure 6-14
(continued)
Groin strain
Step-by-Step
1. Apply wrap starting at mid-thigh and continuing around
the leg in an inside to outside direction. ‘‘Dog ear’’ the
top corner of the start of the wrap and on the next
revolution cover the dog ear. This will lock the wrap in
place and keep it from slipping (see Fig. 6-15).
Figure 6-15
2. Keep overlapping the wrap up the thigh toward the

waist. Once the wrap is just below the injured area, if
Figure 6-16
(continued)
Groin strain
3. Once at the top of the thigh, continue around the waist

and back toward the top of the thigh. The wrap should
create an ‘‘X’’ over the top, front, inside area of the
thigh. Make sure the ‘‘X’’ is just to the inside of the
center of the thigh (see Fig. 6-17).
Figure 6-17
4. Try to end the wrap on the front of the thigh or waist if

possible. This makes it easier for the athlete to remove
it later. Use the metal clips that come with the wrap or
tape can also be used to keep the end of the wrap in
place.
either the lower thigh or waist and working the
opposite direction. This will help keep the elastic wrap
in place and prevent it from rolling (see Fig. 6-18).
Figure 6-18
(continued)
Groin strain
twice the size of the injured area. Also, cut the corner 3. Criss-crossing the wrap (the ‘‘X’’) in front of the leg
of the padding off that goes up next to the genitalia. too much to the inside, which can bind genitalia
4. Athlete not flexing muscles during taping which can
cause procedure to be too tight
Quadriceps/
hamstring strain Used for quadriceps or hamstring muscle strain
Injury Description
The quadriceps and hamstring muscles are located in the front and back thigh, respectively, and help straighten and bend
the knee. They are the most commonly strained muscle groups of the thigh. They are typically injured in running and
jumping activities.
Goal of Procedure
To provide support to the injured quadriceps/hamstring muscle or muscle group.
Supplies Needed
• 6 elastic wrap
(continued)
Quadriceps/
hamstring strain
Patient Positioning
slightly in front of other leg with knee bent slightly (see
Fig. 6-19).
Figure 6-19
Step-by-Step
1. Apply wrap starting at lower thigh, just above the knee
cap and continue around the leg. ‘‘Dog ear’’ the top
corner of the start of the wrap and on the next
revolution cover the dog ear. This will lock the wrap in
place and keep it from slipping (see Fig. 6-20).
Figure 6-20
(continued)
Quadriceps/
hamstring strain
2. Keep overlapping the wrap up toward the top of the

thigh. Once the wrap is just below the injured area, if
Figure 6-21
3. Try to end the wrap on the front of the thigh if possible.

This makes it easier for the athlete to remove it later.
Use the metal clips that come with the wrap or tape can
also be used to keep the end of the wrap in place (see
Fig. 6-22).
Figure 6-22
(continued)
Quadriceps/
hamstring strain

the top of the thigh and continue down toward the
lower thigh. This will help keep the elastic wrap in place
and prevent it from rolling (see Fig. 6-23).
Figure 6-23
twice the size of the injured area.
3. Athlete not flexing muscles during taping which can
cause procedure to be too tight
Thigh contusion
(bruise) Used for quadriceps contusion (bruise)
Injury Description
The quadriceps muscle group is more susceptible to bruises as it is located on the anterior (toward the front) thigh.
Bruises in this area need to be protected as serious complications can develop such as bone growth inside the muscle
tissue.
Goal of Procedure
To apply pressure and provide protection to the area of the thigh that is bruised.
Supplies Needed
• 6 elastic wrap
• High-density padding
Patient Positioning
slightly in front of other leg with knee bent slightly (see
Fig. 6-24).
Figure 6-24
(continued)
Thigh contusion
(bruise)
Step-by-Step
1. Apply high-density padding over the injured area (see
Fig. 6-25).
Figure 6-25
2. Next, apply a quadriceps/hamstring strain wrap to the

thigh (see Fig. 6-26).
Figure 6-26
(continued)
Thigh contusion
(bruise)
twice the size of the injured area. Cut an ‘‘X’’ in the 3. Athlete not flexing muscles during taping which can
middle of the pad directly over the site of injury. This cause procedure to be too tight
helps disperse the blow to the uninjured area. If
available, cover this pad with a hard shell for further
protection during competition. When icing this injury,
keep the knee flexed (bent) at the same time.
P A R T
III
Upper Extremity
C H A P T E R
7 Lower Arm/Wrist/Hand
Objectives
X Recognize basic anatomy of the lower arm
X Define basic medical terms related to the lower arm
X Recognize common mechanisms of injury of the lower arm
X Effectively tape and wrap common injuries of the lower arm
91
92 PART III • Upper Extremity
Anatomy of the Lower Arm

Musculature
Figure 7-1 Upper limb surface landmarks (anterior and posterior views). Loca-
tion of muscles in upper arm (anterior aspect), surface landmarks in upper arm
(anterior aspect), location of muscles in forearm (anterior aspect), and surface
landmarks in forearm and hand (anterior aspect). (From Premkumar K. The
massage connection anatomy and physiology. Baltimore: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins; 2004.)
CHAPTER 7 • Lower Arm/Wrist/Hand 93
Figure 7-2 Upper limb surface landmarks (anterior and posterior views). Location of
muscles on the posterior aspect of upper arm, surface landmarks (posterior aspect
of upper arm), location of muscles on the posterior aspect of forearm, and surface
landmarks (posterior aspect of forearm). (From Premkumar K. The massage connection
Ligaments
Figure 7-3 Ligaments of the left wrist (superficial volar dorsal view). (Asset
provided by Anatomical Chart Co.)
Figure 7-4 Ligaments of the left wrist (superficial dorsal view). (Asset
provided by Anatomical Chart Co.)
Wrist sprain/strain
Used for wrist sprain or strain; general wrist pain
Injury Description
The ligaments of the wrist are affected in a wrist sprain. This results from hyperflexion (beyond normal flexion) or
hyperextension (beyond normal extension) of the wrist. These mechanisms of injury can also injure the tendons in the
wrist area. Hyperflexion of the wrist can produce a stretch injury to the wrist extensors, a group of forearm muscles that
extends to the wrist. The opposite is also true in that hyperextension of the wrist can injure the wrist flexor muscle group.
The most common cause of this injury is falling on an out stretched hand (FOOSH).
Goal of Procedure
To support the ligaments and/or tendons of the wrist by limiting motion.
Supplies Needed
• Prewrap
• Tape adherent
(continued)
Wrist sprain/strain
Patient Positioning
Athlete should be sitting or standing, whichever is more
comfortable for the taper. Have athlete extend arm outward,
horizontally with the thumb and fingers spread apart. The
athlete may use the other arm to hold or support the arm
being taped (see Fig. 7-5).
Figure 7-5
Step-by-Step
Figure 7-6
2. Using the nonelastic tape, start applying overlapping

circular strips about 3 or 4 above the wrist on the
forearm. Continue downward toward the wrist. Make
sure to continue to just below the wrist for maximum
support (see Fig. 7-7).
4. Have athlete make sure tape is not too tight or too
loose in which case it needs to be retaped.
Figure 7-7
If athlete needs more support, try using the hand 1. Pulling the tape too tight and cutting off blood
and wrist taping procedure. Also, another trick is to circulation
‘‘roll’’ the tape into a roll and apply it around the wrist 2. Not taping far enough toward the hand as this adds
and then tape over it. This will provide much more more support
restriction of movement and support.
Hand and wrist Used for wrist sprain or strain; wrist hyperextension; general
sprain/strain wrist pain
Injury Description
Goal of Procedure
To support the ligaments and tendons of the wrist by limiting motion.
Supplies Needed
• Prewrap
• Tape adherent
Patient Positioning
horizontally with the thumb and fingers spread apart (see
Fig. 7-8). The athlete may use the other arm to hold or
support the arm being taped.
Figure 7-8
Step-by-Step
Figure 7-9
(continued)
Hand and wrist

sprain/strain
2. Using the nonelastic tape, start applying overlapping

circular strips about 3 or 4 above the wrist on the
forearm. Continue downward toward the wrist (see
Fig. 7-10).
Figure 7-10
3. Once at the wrist, apply strip around the wrist and

continue over the hand, in between the thumb and
index finger, and back around the wrist (figure 8).
Repeat this procedure three to four times. Alternate
each strip with one passing over the dorsum (back) of
the hand and the other passing over the palm of the
hand. More strips equal more support (see
Fig. 7-11).
Figure 7-11
4. Repeat Step 2 (see Fig. 7-12).

Figure 7-12
The hand and wrist provide more support to the 1. Taping too tight around the hand, cutting in on the
wrist than just the wrist taping procedure. If the thumb and outside of hand impeding circulation
athlete still needs more support, another trick is to and causing pain
‘‘roll’’ the tape into a roll and apply it around the wrist 2. Taping too tight around the wrist
and then tape over it. This will provide much more
restriction of movement and support.
Thumb sprain
Used for thumb sprain
Injury Description
A sprain of the thumb can injure its ligaments, most commonly the ulnar/medial collateral ligament. When this
ligament is injured it is virtually impossible to pinch a piece of paper and hold on to it while someone tries to pull it away.
This injury is often referred to as ‘‘game keeper’s’’ or ‘‘skier’s thumb.’’
Goal of Procedure
To support the ligaments of the thumb by limiting motion.
Supplies Needed
• Prewrap
• Tape adherent
Patient Positioning
horizontally with the thumb and fingers spread apart (see
Figure 7-13
Step-by-Step
Figure 7-14
(continued)
Thumb sprain
2. Using the nonelastic tape, apply a strip of tape around

the base of the thumb joint and the wrist. Repeat this
procedure at least two more times. This spica strip
may be repeated in the opposite direction another two
to three times for more support. Make sure to hold the
tape when pulling from the thumb to around the wrist
to avoid the tape being too tight (see Fig. 7-15).
Figure 7-15
If athlete needs more support, try using the thumb 1. Overlapping the tape higher than the base of the
check-rein procedure in addition to this procedure. thumb; the tip of the thumb should be able to move
about freely
2. Putting too much tension on the tape when pulling
around the thumb causing it to be too tight thus
impeding circulation
Thumb check-rein
Used for thumb sprain
Injury Description
A sprain of the thumb can injure its ligaments, most commonly the ulnar/medial collateral ligament. When this
ligament is injured it is virtually impossible to pinch a piece of paper and hold on to it while someone tries to pull it away.
This injury is often referred to as ‘‘game keeper’s’’ or ‘‘skier’s thumb.’’
Goal of Procedure
To support the ligaments of the thumb by limiting motion.
Supplies Needed
(continued)
Thumb check-rein
Patient Positioning
horizontally. The thumb and index finger should be in a
‘‘pinch’’ position with about a 2 to 3 gap between them
(see Fig. 7-16). The athlete may use the other arm to hold
or support the arm being taped.
Figure 7-16
Step-by-Step
1. Using the nonelastic tape, apply a strip of tape around
the base of the thumb and the base of the adjacent
index finger. Overlap strip at least once more (see
Fig. 7-17).
Figure 7-17
2. Pinch the tape together between the thumb and index

finger and take a small strip of tape and wrap around
the pinched area (see Fig. 7-18).
Figure 7-18
(continued)
Thumb check-rein
Make sure that the thumb and index finger are not 1. Taping thumb and index finger too close to each
too close or too far apart. If they are too close to other, which will hurt athlete’s performance
each other, the athlete may not be able to catch the 2. Taping thumb and index finger too far apart, which
ball properly and if they are too far apart, the taping will negate the supportive effects of the procedure
procedure will not do its job. For best results, if the
3. Not taping around the bases of the thumb and
athlete is a football player, have him or her grip a
finger
football and use that same grip to tape from. If it is a
volleyball player, have him or her grip the volleyball
as if he or she is going to set someone and use that
position to tape from, etc.
Finger sprain
Used for finger sprain, finger dislocation
Injury Description
A sprain of the finger can injure ligaments such as the lateral or medial collateral ligaments of the finger. These
ligaments are found on each side of each finger joint.
Goal of Procedure
To support the ligaments of the finger joint by limiting motion.
Supplies Needed
• 1/2 nonelastic tape
• 2 or 3 light-duty elastic tape (adhesive or nonadhesive)
Patient Positioning
comfortable for the taper. Have athlete extend arm out-
ward, hand horizontal with the affected finger extended (see
Figure 7-19
(continued)
Finger sprain
Step-by-Step
1. Using the nonelastic tape, apply an anchor strip of tape
around the finger just above and below the injured joint
(see Fig. 7-20).
Figure 7-20
2. Next, apply an ‘‘X’’ pattern strip to each side of the

injured finger starting at one anchor and ending on the
other. The ‘‘Xs’’ intersect on the side of the injured
joint on both sides (see Fig. 7-21).
Figure 7-21
3. Using the elastic tape, cover the area from anchor to

anchor. Apply two to three layers for more cushioning
and support (see Fig. 7-22).
loose in which case either needs to be retaped.
Figure 7-22
If athlete needs more support, try using the buddy 1. Pulling the tape too tight or not tight enough
taping procedure in conjunction with the finger 2. Not taping directly over the injured ligament/joint
sprain procedure.
Finger ‘‘buddy’’
taping Used for finger sprain, finger dislocation, finger fracture
Injury Description
A sprain of the finger can injure ligaments such as the lateral or medial collateral ligaments of the finger. These
ligaments are found on each side of each finger joint.
Goal of Procedure
To support the ligaments of the finger joint by limiting motion.
Supplies Needed
• 1/2 or 1 nonelastic tape (depending on the size of individual)
Patient Positioning
hand horizontal with the thumb and fingers spread apart (see
Figure 7-23
Step-by-Step
1. Using the nonelastic tape, apply an anchor strip of tape
around the two fingers just above and below the injured
joint (see Fig. 7-24). The buddy fingers are the index
and middle fingers and the ring and pinky fingers.
Figure 7-24
2. Using the light-duty elastic tape, cover both fingers from

anchor to anchor. Apply two to three layers for more
cushioning and support (see Fig. 7-25).
loose in which case either needs to be retaped.
Figure 7-25
(continued)
Finger ‘‘buddy’’
taping
For the most support, use the finger sprain taping 1. Pulling the tape too tight or not tight enough
procedure in conjunction with buddy taping. 2. Taping directly over the injured joint instead of
above and below
Used for wrist sprain or strain; wrist hyperextension; general

Basic wrist wrap
wrist pain and/or swelling
Injury Description
Goal of Procedure
To support the ligaments and tendons of the wrist and to limit and/or reduce any swelling in the area. The pressure of the
wrap will in most cases help decrease the pain as well.
Supplies Needed
Patient Positioning
hand horizontal with the thumb, and fingers spread apart
(see Fig. 7-26). The athlete may use the other arm to hold
or support the arm being wrapped.
Figure 7-26
(continued)
Basic wrist wrap
Step-by-Step
1. Apply wrap starting at the wrist and continue around
the wrist and then in between the thumb and index
finger. ‘‘Dog ear’’ the top corner of the start of the
wrap and on the next revolution cover the dog ear. This
will lock the wrap in place and keep it from slipping (see
Fig. 7-27).
Figure 7-27
2. Keep overlapping the wrap several times around the

hand and wrist. After several times around, continue up
the forearm and end the wrap about 3 or 4 above the
wrist (see Fig. 7-28).
3. Try to end the wrap on the top of the wrist if possible.
This makes it easier for the athlete to remove later. Use
the metal clips that come with the wrap or tape can
also be used to keep the end of the wrap in place.
4. Have athlete make sure wrap is not too tight or too
loose in which case either needs to be rewrapped.
Figure 7-28
COMMON MISTAKES
1. Applying the wrap too tight, which can constrict

blood flow causing numbness and pain
2. Overlapping the wrap too much to where there is
not enough wrap left to finish the procedure
C H A P T E R
8 Elbow
Objectives
X Recognize basic anatomy of the elbow
X Define basic medical terms related to the elbow
X Recognize common mechanisms of injury of the elbow
X Effectively tape and wrap common injuries of the elbow
107
Anatomy of the Elbow

Musculature
Figure 8-1 Upper limb surface landmarks (anterior and posterior views). Location
of muscles in upper arm (anterior aspect), surface landmarks in upper arm (anterior
aspect), location of muscles in forearm (anterior aspect), and surface landmarks in
forearm and hand (anterior aspect). (From Premkumar K. The massage connection
CHAPTER 8 • Elbow 109
muscles on the posterior aspect of upper arm, surface landmarks (posterior aspect of
upper arm), location of muscles on the posterior aspect of forearm, and surface landmarks
(posterior aspect of forearm). (From Premkumar K. The massage connection anatomy and
Ligaments
Figure 8-3 Ligaments of the right elbow (lateral view). (Asset provided by
Figure 8-4 Ligaments of the right elbow (medial view). (Asset provided
by Anatomical Chart Co.)
Elbow sprain
Used for elbow sprain; elbow strain; elbow hyperextension
Injury Description
Elbow sprains typically injure the medial (toward the inside of the body) and lateral (toward the outside of the body)
collateral (side) ligaments of the elbow. The medial collateral ligament (MCL) is typically injured by a valgus
(knock-kneed force) stress as the lateral collateral ligament (LCL) is typically injured by a varus (bow-legged force) stress.
Goal of Procedure
To support the ligaments of the elbow by limiting mobility.
Supplies Needed
• Tape adherent
• Prewrap
• Heel and Lace Pads
• Tape cutters or scissors
Patient Positioning
comfortable for the taper. Have athlete extend arm outward.
Have the athlete make a fist and flex the wrist with the elbow
slightly bent if injury allows it (see Fig. 8-5). This will contract
(flex) the muscles so that the tape will not be too tight.
Figure 8-5
Step-by-Step
1. Spray the taping area with tape adherent. Apply heel
and lace pads to the bend of the elbow (see Fig. 8-6).
Figure 8-6
(continued)
Elbow sprain
2. Apply prewrap starting at midforearm and continue to

overlap all the way up to the belly of the biceps muscle
(see Fig. 8-7).
Figure 8-7

around the midforearm. Continue overlapping strips
until just below the elbow joint. Start again just above
the elbow and continue overlapping up toward the
biceps muscle belly (see Fig. 8-8).
Figure 8-8
4. Using 2 heavy-duty elastic tape, apply two ‘‘X’’ strips

to both sides of the elbow. Start the strips from the
midforearm as shown and criss-cross each strip over the
sides of the elbow (see Fig. 8-9).
Figure 8-9
5. Using the same heavy-duty elastic tape, apply one

hyperextension strip to each side of the elbow. Start the
strip on the front, midforearm, and continue to the back
of the elbow making sure the strip passes only through
the ‘‘bend’’ of the elbow. Continue up around the other
side of the elbow ending up on the front, top of the
biceps muscle. Apply another strip on the opposite side
of the elbow (see Fig. 8-10).
Figure 8-10
(continued)
Elbow sprain

taping procedure starting at the top of the elbow and
elbow. Do the same thing starting at just below the
elbow and apply overlapping strips toward the
midforearm (see Fig. 8-11).
Figure 8-11
athlete and will cause a certain limitation in can cause procedure to be too tight
movement, which is the purpose of the procedure. 2. Applying the tape too tight, as this will not allow
After 10 to 15 minutes the tape should loosen up the athlete to bend the elbow much at all and/or
some more but the athlete must know that there has causing too much discomfort
to be some restriction of movement for the taping
3. Applying the hyperextension (beyond normal
procedure to work.
extension) strips too low or too high in the front
of the elbow causing the tape to pinch the forearm
or bicep muscles
Elbow
hyperextension Used for elbow hyperextension
Injury Description
Hyperextension (beyond normal extension) of the elbow can injure the joint capsule. The elbow is pushed beyond its
normal motion resulting in injury.
Goal of Procedure
To support the ligaments of the elbow by limiting mobility.
Supplies Needed
• Tape adherent
• Prewrap
• Heel and Lace Pads
• Tape cutters or scissors
(continued)
Elbow
hyperextension
Patient Positioning
Have the athlete make a fist and flex the wrist with the
elbow slightly bent if injury allows it (see Fig. 8-12). This will
contract (flex) the muscles so that the tape will not be too
tight.
Figure 8-12
Step-by-Step
1. Spray the taping area with tape adherent. Apply heel
and lace pads to the bend of the elbow (see Fig. 8-13).
Figure 8-13
2. Apply prewrap starting at midforearm and continue to

overlap all the way up to the belly of the biceps muscle
(see Fig. 8-14).
Figure 8-14

around the midforearm. Continue overlapping strips
until just below the elbow joint. Start again just above
the elbow and continue overlapping up toward the
biceps muscle belly (see Fig. 8-15).
Figure 8-15
(continued)
Elbow
hyperextension
4. Using the heavy-duty elastic tape, apply one

hyperextension strip to each side of the elbow. Start the
strip on the front, midforearm, and continue to the back
of the elbow making sure the strip passes only through
the ‘‘bend’’ of the elbow. Continue up around the other
side of the elbow ending up on the front, top of the
biceps muscle. Apply another strip on the opposite side
of the elbow (see Fig. 8-16).
Figure 8-16

taping procedure starting at the top of the elbow and
elbow. Do the same thing starting at just below the
elbow and apply overlapping strips toward the
midforearm (see Fig. 8-17).
Figure 8-17
athlete and will cause a certain limitation in can cause procedure to be too tight
movement, which is the purpose of the procedure. 2. Applying the tape too tight, as this will not allow
After 10 to 15 minutes, the tape should loosen up the athlete to bend the elbow much at all and/or
some more but the athlete must know that there has causing too much discomfort
to be some restriction of movement for the taping
3. Applying the hyperextension strips too low or too
procedure to work. If required, a fan strip can also
high in the front of the elbow causing the tape to
be added to the anterior (toward the front) elbow
pinch the forearm or bicep muscles
before the hyperextension strips are applied to
provide additional support and limitation of
movement.
Used for elbow sprain or strain; elbow hyperextension;

Basic elbow wrap
general elbow pain
Injury Description
Elbow sprains typically injure the medial (toward the inside of the body) and lateral (toward the outside of the body)
collateral (side) ligaments of the elbow. The MCL is typically injured by a valgus (knock-kneed force) stress as the LCL
is typically injured by a varus (bow-legged force) stress. Hyperextension (beyond normal extension) of the elbow can
injure the joint capsule.
Goal of Procedure
To support the ligaments and tendons of the elbow and prevent/reduce swelling in the joint. The pressure of the wrap
will in most cases help decrease the pain as well. This procedure is not meant to be worn for competition.
Supplies Needed
Patient Positioning
Have the athlete make a fist and flex the wrist with the
elbow slightly bent if injury allows it (see Fig. 8-18). This will
contract (flex) the muscles so that the wrap will not be too
tight.
Figure 8-18
Step-by-Step
1. Apply wrap starting at midforearm and continue
overlapping to the belly of the biceps muscle. ‘‘Dog
ear’’ the top corner of the start of the wrap and on the
next ‘‘pass’’ cover it. This will lock the wrap in place
and keep it from slipping (see Fig. 8-19).
Figure 8-19
(continued)
Basic elbow wrap
2. Try to end the wrap on the top, front belly of the biceps
if possible. This makes it easier for the athlete to
remove later. Use the metal clips that come with the
wrap or tape can also be used to keep the end of the
wrap in place (see Fig. 8-20).
loose in which case it needs to be rewrapped.
Figure 8-20
Please see the enclosed CD for an additional or 1. Applying the wrap too tight, which can constrict
alternative elbow wrapping procedure. blood flow causing numbness and pain
3. Athlete not flexing muscles during wrapping, which
can cause procedure to be too tight
C H A P T E R
9 Shoulder/Thorax
Objectives
X Recognize basic anatomy of the shoulder
X Define basic medical terms related to the shoulder
X Recognize common mechanisms of injury of the shoulder
X Effectively tape and wrap common injuries of the shoulder
118
CHAPTER 9 • Shoulder/Thorax 119
Anatomy of the Shoulder

Musculature
Figure 9-1 Upper limb surface landmarks (anterior and posterior views). Location
of muscles in upper arm (anterior aspect), surface landmarks in upper arm (anterior
aspect), location of muscles in forearm (anterior aspect), and surface landmarks in
forearm and hand (anterior aspect). (From Premkumar K. The massage connection
muscles on the posterior aspect of upper arm, surface landmarks (posterior aspect of
upper arm), location of muscles on the posterior aspect of forearm, and surface landmarks
(posterior aspect of forearm). (From Premkumar K. The massage connection anatomy and
Figure 9-3 Trunk surface landmarks (posterior view). Location of superficial (right)
and deep (left) muscles in the posterior aspect of trunk and surface landmarks. (From
Premkumar K. The massage connection anatomy and physiology. Baltimore: Lippincott
Williams & Wilkins; 2004.)
Ligaments
Figure 9-4 Ligaments of the left shoulder (anterior view). (Asset provided by Anatomical
Chart Co.)
Figure 9-5 Ligaments of the left shoulder (posterior view).

(Asset provided by Anatomical Chart Co.)
Basic shoulder
wrap Used for shoulder sprain; shoulder dislocation (instability)
Injury Description
A sprain to the shoulder can injure the ligaments holding the shoulder joint in place. If the damage is serious enough, joint
instability can result. The anterior (toward the front) gleno (part of shoulder blade that joins with the
humerus)-humeral (humerus, upper arm bone) ligaments of the shoulder are commonly injured and can lead to anterior
instability. The glenohumeral ligaments protect the infamous ‘‘ball and socket’’ joint which is one of the most unstable
joints of the body.
Goal of Procedure
To support the ligaments of the shoulder joint by limiting motion. By applying pressure the wrap will in most cases help
decrease the pain as well as help stabilize the joint. This spica or figure 8 wrap can be somewhat effective in
controlling anterior instability of the shoulder. It is also helpful in holding an ice pack or padding in place.
Supplies Needed
• 4 elastic wrap (depending on size, a double-length wrap may be
necessary)
(continued)
Basic shoulder
wrap
Patient Positioning
Athlete should be standing upright. Have athlete place hand
of injured arm on the ipsilateral (same side) hip (see Fig.
9-6).
Figure 9-6
Step-by-Step
1. Start applying wrap around the belly of the biceps on
the inside and overlapping upward toward the shoulder
(see Fig. 9-7). Make sure to ‘‘dog ear’’ the wrap and
lock it in place on the next revolution. Make sure the
athlete inhales and holds the breath while applying the
elastic wrap around the chest. If needed, the athlete can
take another breath and hold it in if it takes longer than
expected.
Figure 9-7
2. After overlapping the biceps a few times, continue

across the front of the shoulder and under the opposite
arm. Continue around the athlete’s back and around
the biceps again. Repeat this process of going around
the upper torso and upper arm overlapping the wrap
each time around (see Fig 9-8).
Figure 9-8
(continued)
Basic shoulder
wrap
3. Continue overlapping wrap until there is no more wrap.

Try to end the wrap in the front or side of the torso.
Apply elastic clips or use tape to secure the end of the
wrap in place (see Fig. 9-9).
Figure 9-9
4. Using 2 or 3 light-duty elastic tape, apply continuous

the biceps and working around the body. This will help
keep the elastic wrap in place and prevent it from
rolling. Make sure the athlete inhales and holds the
breath again when applying tape over the wrap (see
Fig. 9-10).
Figure 9-10
COMMON MISTAKES
1. Applying the wrap too tight which can constrict

breathing
3. Athlete not holding breath while applying the wrap
thus making the wrap too tight
4. Applying wrap in wrong direction thus decreasing
the stabilization of the wrap
5. Wrap being too tight around upper arm, putting
excessive pressure on the brachial artery
Acromioclavicular Used for acromioclavicular joint separation/sprain;

joint
separation/bruise
acromioclavicular bruise
Injury Description
The acromioclavicular (AC) joint is made up of two bones, the acromion process of the scapula (shoulder blade) and the
end of the clavicle (collar bone). This joint is held together by a strong ligament. This joint is typically injured when
falling directly on the shoulder and when falling on an outstretched arm. Athletes who injure this joint are very tender over
the top of the shoulder where the joint is located.
Goal of Procedure
To support the ligaments of the acromioclavicular joint. By applying pressure the wrap will in most cases help decrease
the pain as well as help stabilize the joint. This wrapping procedure will help protect the injured area.
Supplies Needed
necessary)
• High-density foam padding (if available)
Patient Positioning
Athlete should be standing upright. Have athlete place hand
of injured arm on the ipsilateral (same side) hip (see Fig.
9-11).
Figure 9-11
Step-by-Step
1. Apply padding if available over area that is injured (see
Fig. 9-12).
Figure 9-12
(continued)
Acromioclavicular
joint
separation/bruise
2. Next, apply a basic shoulder wrap over the padding (see

Fig. 9-13).
Figure 9-13
Make sure the padding is at least twice the size of 1. Applying the wrap too tight which can constrict
the injury. Cut an ‘‘X’’ in the middle of the pad breathing
directly over the site of injury to disperse the force 2. Overlapping the wrap too much to where there is
equally over the entire pad. not enough wrap left to finish the procedure
4. Wrap being too tight around upper arm putting
excessive pressure on the brachial artery
Rib bruise wrap

Used for rib bruise, rib separation
Injury Description
Injuries to the ribs are typically from blunt trauma resulting in a bruise. Because the rib cage expands while breathing and
muscles are attached to the ribs, it can be a very painful injury. Proper padding must be applied to help protect the
bruised area.
Goal of Procedure
To support and protect the ribs and the cartilage between them. The pressure of the wrap will in most cases help
decrease the pain as well.
Supplies Needed
necessary)
• High-density padding, if available
(continued)
Rib bruise wrap
Patient Positioning
Athlete should be standing upright with hands on their hips
or head (see Fig. 9-14).
Figure 9-14
Step-by-Step
1. Apply high-density padding if available over area that is
injured.
2. Start applying circular wrap around the bottom of the
chest and overlapping upward (see Fig. 9-15). Make
sure to ‘‘dog ear’’ the wrap and lock it in place on the
next revolution. Make sure the athlete inhales and holds
the breath while applying the elastic wrap. If needed,
the athlete can take another breath and hold it in if it
takes longer than expected.
Figure 9-15
3. Continue overlapping wrap until there is no more wrap

(see Fig. 9-16). Try to end the wrap in the front or side
of the chest. Apply elastic clips or use tape to secure
the end of the wrap in place.
Figure 9-16
(continued)
Rib bruise wrap
4. Using 2 or 3 light-duty elastic tape, apply overlapping

strips over the top of the wrap starting at the top and
working the way down. This will help keep the elastic
wrap in place and prevent it from rolling. Make sure the
athlete inhales and holds the breath again when
applying tape over the wrap (see Fig. 9-17).
Figure 9-17
Make sure the padding is at least twice the size of 1. Applying the wrap too tight which can constrict
the injury. Cut an ‘‘X’’ in the middle of the pad breathing
directly over the site of injury. 2. Overlapping the wrap too much to where there is
A P P E N D I X
Anatomical Position
A and Terminology
130
APPENDIX A • Anatomical Position and Terminology 131
The anatomical position must be used when referring to anatomy of the body. This
is used universally in the medical field so that one can describe the exact location
of a body part. The anatomical position refers to a human being standing with face
front, arms at the side, and palms facing forward. When trying to describe a body
part, always picture the body in the anatomical position (see Figure A-1):
Figure A-1 Planes of reference. (From Oatis CA. Kinesiology. The mechanics
and pathomechanics of human movement. Baltimore: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins; 2003.)
A P P E N D I X
Individual
Taping/Wrapping Skill
B Performance Sheet
132
APPENDIX B • Individual Taping/Wrapping Skill Performance Sheet 133
Name:
Procedure:
Date:
1 = Excellent
2 = Good
3 = Fair
4 = Poor
5 = Unacceptable
Patient Setup/Positioning 1 2 3 4 5
Comments:
Taping Area Management 1 2 3 4 5
Comments:
Procedure Performed
Aesthetically Pleasing 1 2 3 4 5
Comments:
Functional 1 2 3 4 5
Comments:
Acceptable Time ( : ) 1 2 3 4 5
Comments:
TOTAL:* ÷5=
*The final score should be at least 3 or higher to be considered passing.

A P P E N D I X
C Glossary
134
APPENDIX C • Glossary 135
Abrasion: superficial burn to the skin caused by friction; ‘‘strawberry’’
Acute: new; generally less than 2 weeks old
Adducts: movement toward the midline of the body
Anterior: toward the front of the body
Anti: against; anti-inflammatory = against inflammation
Chronic: old; generally more than 2 weeks old
Collateral: side
Conform: mold to; shape
Constrict: get smaller in diameter
Contusion: bruise; compression of muscle and other soft tissue
Cruciate: cross
Dilate: get larger in diameter
Dislocation: displacement of one or more bones; luxation (full) and subluxation

(partial)
Distal: away from the body or torso
Dorsum: back or posterior side
Effervescent: bubbling effect
Eversion: sole of foot facing outward
Extension: increase the angle of a joint; ‘‘to straighten’’
Flexion: decrease the angle of a joint; ‘‘to flex or bend’’
Groin: slang term for inside area of thigh
Hyperextension: going beyond normal extension of a joint
Hyperflexion: going beyond normal flexion of a joint
Incision: straight cut made by sharp object
Inferior: toward the feet
Instability: unstable; not stable
Inversion: sole of foot facing inward
Ipsilateral: same side
Joint: two or more bones joined together by ligaments
Laceration: irregular or jagged cut made by blunt object
Lateral: away from the middle of the body

136 APPENDIX C • Glossary
Ligament: connects bone to bone
Malleolus: bone that sticks out on each side of the ankle; medial—tibia; lateral—
fibula
Medial: toward the middle of the body
Muscle: contractile tissue responsible for movement of the body
Orthotic: custom made support device; that is, brace and splint
Over-pronate: slightly more than usual inward rolling motion of foot during weight
bearing; see pes planus or flat feet
Over-supinate: slightly more than usual outward rolling motion of foot during
weight bearing; see pes cavus or high arches
Patella: knee cap
Plantar: sole; bottom surface of the foot
Pes Cavus: high arches
Pes Planus: flat feet
Plantar flexion: the motion of pointing toes toward the ground or standing on toes
Posterior: toward the back of the body
Prone: lying on the stomach, face down
Proximal: toward the body or torso
Spica: taping or wrapping a smaller body part to a larger body part
Sprain: stretching or tearing (damage) of ligaments and/or joint capsule
Strain: stretching or tearing (damage) of muscle and/or tendons
Superficial: close to the surface
Superior: toward the head
Supine: lying down on the back, face up
Tendon: connects muscle to bone
Tendonitis: inflammation of the tendon
Tubercle: small bony protuberance (bump); place for ligament and/or tendon
attachment
Tuberosity: larger bony protuberance (bump); place for ligament and/or tendon
attachment
Valgus: angled outward; knock-kneed force
Varus: angled inward; bow-legged force

Index
KWWSERRNVPHGLFRVRUJ
Note: Page numbers followed by f denote figures; followed by b indicate box; followed by fs indicate field strategies.
Abductor pollicis brevis, 93f, 109f Annular ligament, 110f Collateral (side) ligaments, 45f
Abductor pollicis longus, 93f, 120f Anterior border of tibia, 28f Compression, application of, 24
Abrasion, 25 Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), 56f–57f Conoid ligament, 122f–123f
Achilles’ tendon, 29f–30f Anterior inferior iliac spine (AIIS), 72f Contusion, 24
Achilles’ tendon strain, taping for, 15 Anterior ligament, 110f Coracoacromial ligament, 122f
common errors, 38b Anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS), 72f Coracoid process, 122f
goal of procedure, 37 Anterior talofibular ligament, 30f Cramer, 7
injury description, 37 Anterior tibiofibular ligament, 30f Cramer Shark, 5, 13
patient positioning, 37fs Antibiotics, 25 Cutters, for tape, 5, 5f
procedure, 37fs–38fs Antipronation strips, taping with
supplies needed, 37 common errors, 42b Deltoid, 92f–93f, 108f–109f, 119f–121f
tips, 38b goal of procedure, 41 Deltoid ligament, 31f
Acromioclavicular (AC) joint injury description, 40 Deltoid muscle, 121f
separation/bruise patient positioning, 41fs Dilate phase, of injury process, 23
common errors, 127b procedure, 41fs–42fs Distal interphalangeal joint, 94f–95f
goal of procedure, 126 supplies needed, 41 Dorsal venous arch, 28f
injury description, 126 tips, 42b Double figure eight (Sunderland) strip,
patient positioning, 126fs Arch strain/sprain, taping for taping procedure, 35fs–36fs
supplies needed, 126 common errors, 45b Double heel lock (Helmer and Helberg) strip,
taping procedure, 126fs–127fs goal of procedure, 42 taping procedure, 35fs
tips, 127b injury description, 42 Dressing, of wounds, 25
Acromioclavicular ligament, 122f–123f patient positioning, 42fs
Acromion process, 121f–123f procedure, 42fs–45fs
Adductor longus, 54f, 70f supplies needed, 42 Elastic wraps, 6, 19–20, 6f, 19fs
Adductor magnus, 55f, 71f tips, 45b Elastikon, 4
Adherents, of tape, 4, 4f Arm (brachial), 92f Elastoplast, 4
Adhesive light-duty elastic tape, 3 Armpit, 92f Elbow hyperextension
Aerosol spray cans, 4, 15 Armpit (axillary), 108f, 119f common errors, 115b
Alert Pro, 5f Axila, 108f, 119f goal of procedure, 113
Alert Services, Inc., 7 Axilla, 92f injury description, 113
Allergic reactions, 17 Axillary nerve, 93f, 109f patient positioning, 114fs
Anatomy supplies needed, 113
elbow, 108f–110f Band-aids, 18 taping procedure, 114fs–115fs
hip, 70f–73f Basic tape strips, 15 tips, 115b
knee, 54f–57f Basilic vein, 92f, 108f Elbow sprains, 116
lower arm, 92f–95f Benadryl cream, 17 common errors, 113b
lower leg, 28f–31f Biceps brachii, 92f, 108f, 119f goal of procedure, 111
shoulder, 119f–123f Biceps (femoris), 29f, 55f, 71f injury description, 111
significance in taping, 15 Bifurcated ‘‘Y’’ ligament, 30f patient positioning, 111fs
Anchor strips, 15 Bleeding, control of, 25 supplies needed, 111
Anconeus, 93f, 109f, 120f Blisters, 17–18 taping procedure, 111fs–113fs
Ankle sprain, taping for Body angles, 13f tips, 113b
common errors, 34b Brachialis, 92f, 108f, 119f Elbow wrap, basic
goal of procedure, 31 Brachioradialis, 92f–93f, 108f–109f, common errors, 117b
injury description, 31 119f–120f goal of procedure, 116
patient positioning, 31fs Brachium, 92f, 108f injury description, 116
procedure, 31fs–34fs Bracing, 18–19 patient positioning, 116fs
supplies needed, 31 Buttock (gluteal), 55f, 71f supplies needed, 116
support strips, 34 taping procedure, 116fs–117fs
common errors, 36b Calcaneal tendon, 29f Elevation, 24
taping procedure, 35fs–36fs Calcaneofibular ligament, 30f EMT shears, 5f
tips, 36b Calcaneous, 29f Erector spinae, 121f
tips, 34b Carpals, 94f–95f Extensor carpi radialis brevis, 92f–93f,
Ankle sprain wrap Cephalic vein, 92f, 108f, 119f 108f–109f, 119f–120f
common errors, 52b Cervical vertebrae, 121f Extensor carpi radialis longus, 92f–93f,
goal of procedure, 50 Check reins, 15, 16f 108f–109f, 119f–120f
injury description, 50 Claus. See Super Pro Extensor carpi ulnaris, 93f, 109f, 120f
patient positioning, 50fs Clavicle, 122f–123f Extensor digiti minimi, 93f, 120f
procedure, 50fs–52fs Clippers. See Razor Extensor digitorum, 93f, 109f, 120f
supplies needed, 50 Closed-cell padding. See High-density Extensor digitorum longus, 28f
tips, 52b padding Extensor hallucis longus, 28f
Ankle (tarsal), 28f Closure strips, 15 Extensor hallucis longus tendon, 30f
137
138 Index
Extensor pollicis brevis, 93f, Heel bruise, taping for Leg anatomy, lower
109f, 120f common errors, 49b ankle ligaments, 30f–31f
Extensor retinaculum, 93f, goal of procedure, 48 musculature, 28f–30f
109f, 120f injury description, 48 Leg (crural), 28f
External oblique, 121f patient positioning, 48fs Lesser trochanter, 72f–73f
procedure, 48fs–49fs Lesser tubercle, 122f
Fan strip, 15, 17f supplies needed, 48 Levator scapulae, 121f
Felt, 7 tips, 49b Ligament (s),
Femur, 28f–29f, 56f–57f, 71f–73f Henry Schein, Inc., 7 of the ankle, 30f–31f
Fibula, 28f, 30f, 56f–57f High-density padding, 7 of Bigelow, 72f–73f
Fibular head, 56f–57f Hip flexor strain, taping for of the left elbow, 110f
Finger ‘‘buddy’’ taping common errors, 79b of the left shoulder, 122f–123f
common errors, 105b goal of procedure, 76 of the left wrist, 94f–95f
goal of procedure, 104 injury description, 76 of the right hip joint, 72f–73f
injury description, 104 patient positioning, 77fs of right knee, 56f
patient positioning, 104fs procedure, 77fs–79fs Light-duty elastic tape, 3 –4, 3f
procedure, 104fs supplies needed, 76 Lightplast, 3
supplies needed, 104 tips, 79b Lines, of the body, 12
tips, 105b Hip pointer contusion, taping for Lister, 5f
Finger sprain common errors, 76b Low-density padding, 7, 20f–21f
common errors, 103b goal of procedure, 73 Lower limb surface, 54f–55f, 70f–71f
goal of procedure, 102 injury description, 73
injury description, 102 patient positioning, 73fs Manipulation, of tape, 12
patient positioning, 102fs procedure, 73fs–75fs Manufacturers, sports medicine product, 7
procedure, 103fs supplies needed, 73 Medco Supply Co., 7
supplies needed, 102 tips, 76b Medial antebrachial vein, 92f
tips, 103b Humerus, 110f, 122f–123f Medial collateral ligament (MCL), 56f, 100
Fingers (digital/phalangeal), 92f, 108f Hydrogen peroxide, 25 Medial epicondyle, 108f, 119f
Flexor carpi radialis, 92f, 108f, 119f Hyperextension Medial epicondyle of humerus, 92f–93f,
Flexor carpi ulnaris, 92f–93f, 108f–109f, of elbow, 116 108f–109f, 119f–120f
119f–120f of wrist, 105b Medial malleolus, 30f–31f
Flexor digitorum longus, 30f Hyperflexion, of wrist, 105b Medial meniscus, 56f–57f
Flexor digitorum superficialis, 108f, 119f Hypoallergenic tapes, 17 Median antebrachial vein, 108f, 119f
Flexor hallucis longus tendon, 30f Median cubital vein, 92f, 119f
Foam, 7 Iliac crest, 72f–73f, 121f Metacarpals, 94f–95f
Foot (pedal), 28f Iliofemoral ligament, 72f–73f Metacarpophalangeal joint, 94f–95f
Forearm (antebrachial), 92f, 108f, 119f Iliopsoas, 54f, 70f Metatarsals, 30f–31f
Front of elbow (antecubital), 108f Iliotibial tract, 28f, 54f–55f, 70f–71f Moore Medical Co., 7
Furrow over spinous processes, of thoracic Ilium, 72f–73f Mueller, 7
vertebrae, 121f Incision, 25
Inferior angle of scapula, 121f Navicular tubercle, 31f
Gastrocnemius, 28f–29f, 55f, 71f Inferior gemellus, 71f Nonadhesive light-duty elastic tape, 3 –4
lateral and medial heads, 29f Inflammatory phase, of injury process, 23 Nonelastic tape, 3, 3f
Gel, 7 Infraspinatus, 121f manipulation, 12
Glenohumeral ligament, 122f–123f Injuries, treatment of, 23–24
Gluteus maximus, 55f, 71f Injury prevention aid, 3 Obturator internus, 71f
Gluteus medius, 55f, 71f Injury process, 23 Olecranon of ulna, 93f, 109f, 120f
Gracilis, 54f–55f, 70f–71f Internal oblique, 121f Olecranon process, 110f
Great saphenous vein, 28f Ischial tuberosity, 71f Open-cell padding. See Low-density padding
Greater trochanter, 72f–73f Ischium, 72f–73f
Greater tubercle, 122f–123f Padding, 7–7f
Groin (inguinal), 70f Johnson & Johnson, 7 low-density, 20f–21f
Groin strain, taping for Pain reduction aid, 3
common errors, 83b Knee sprain, taping for Palmaris longus, 92f, 108f, 119f
goal of procedure, 80 common errors, 62b Palm (palmar), 92f, 108f, 119f
injury description, 80 goal of procedure, 58 Palpation site, 29f
patient positioning, 80fs injury description, 58 of posterior tibial artery, 29f
procedure, 81fs–82fs patient positioning, 58fs Patella, 28f, 54f, 70f
supplies needed, 80 procedure, 59fs–62fs Patella (kneecap) tendonitis, taping for
tips, 83b supplies needed, 58 common errors, 65b
tips, 62b goal of procedure, 63
Hand and wrist sprain/strain, taping for Knee wrap, basic injury description, 63
common errors, 98b common errors, 68b patient positioning, 63fs
goal of procedure, 97 goal of procedure, 66 procedure, 64fs–65fs
injury description, 97 injury description, 66 supplies needed, 63
patient positioning, 97fs patient positioning, 66fs tips, 65b
procedure, 97fs–98fs procedure, 67fs–68fs Patellar tendon, 28f
supply needed, 97 supplies needed, 66 Pectineus, 54f, 70f
tips, 98b tips, 68b Pectoralis major, 92f, 108f, 119f
Head of fibula, 28f Peroneal nerve, 29f
Head of ulna, 92f, 108f, 119f Laceration, 25 Peroneous longus, 28f
Healing method. See RICE method, of Lateral collateral ligament (LCL), 56f–57f Petroleum jelly, 18
treating injuries Lateral epicondyle, 108f, 119f Phalanges, 30f–31f, 94f–95f
Heat, role in healing process, 24 Lateral femoral condyle, 56f Pisiform bone, 92f, 108f, 119f
Heavy-duty elastic tape, 4, 4f Lateral malleolus, 28f–29f Pisohamate ligament, 94f
tearing of, 9 Lateral meniscus, 56f–57f Plantar fasciitis. See Arch strain/sprain
Heel and lace pads, 5, 18, 5f , 18f Latissimus dorsi muscle, 121f Plantaris, 29f
Index 139
Posterior cruciate ligament (ACL), 56f–57f injury description, 123 Thumb strain, taping for
Posterior inferior iliac spine (PIIS), 72f patient positioning, 124fs common errors, 100b
Posterior ligament, 110f supplies needed, 123 goal of procedure, 99
Posterior superior iliac spine (PSIS), 72f taping procedure, 124fs–125fs injury description, 99
Posterior talofibular ligament, 30f Skin wounds (hot spots), 17–18 patient positioning, 99fs
Posterior tibiofibular ligament, 30f Soleus, 28f–29f, 55f procedure, 99fs–100fs
Powerflex, 4, 20 Solutions, for tape removal, 15 supplies needed, 99
Prewrap, 4, 4f Spartan strip, taping procedure, tips, 100b
vs straight to the skin, 18 35fs–36fs Tibia, 28f–31f, 56f
Pronator teres, 92f, 108f, 119f Spica strips, 15, 16f Tibial tuberosity, 28f, 54f, 56f, 70f
Proximal interphalangeal joint, 94f–95f Spine of scapula, 123f Tibialis anterior, 28f
Pubis, 72f–73f Splenius capitis, 121f Tibialis anterior tendon, 30f
Pubofemoral ligament, 72f–73f Sports medicine companies, 7 Tibialis posterior tendon, 30f
Sprain, defined, 24 Trapezius, 121f
Q.D.A. See Tape adherent Spring ligament, 31f Trapezius muscle, 121f
Quadratus, 71f Sternocleidomastoid, 121f Trapezoid ligament, 122f–123f
Quadriceps or hamstring muscle strain, Sticking aid. See Tape adherent Triceps brachii, 92f–93f, 108f–109f,
taping for Strain, defined, 24 119f–121f
common errors, 86b Styloid process Trunk surface, 121f
goal of procedure, 83 of fifth metatarsal, 30f Tuberosity of calcaneus, 29f
injury description, 83 of ulna, 94f–95f Tuff-Skin. See Tape adherent
patient positioning, 84fs Superior angle of scapula, 121f Turf toe, taping for
procedure, 84fs–85fs Super Pro, 5f common errors, 47b
supplies needed, 83 Supply companies, of sports medicine, 7 goal of procedure, 45
tips, 86b Support strips, 15 injury description, 45
Suprascapular ligament, 123f patient positioning, 46fs
Radial collateral ligament, 94f Supraspinatus, 121f procedure, 46fs–47fs
Radial head, 110f Sustentaculum tali, 31f supplies needed, 45
Radioulnar ligament, 94f–95f Swelling tips, 47b
Radius, 94f–95f, 110f control and prevention of, 21, 23–24
Razor, 6, 6f development, 23 Ulna, 94f, 110f
Rectus femoris, 54f, 70f prevention aid, 3 Ulnar collateral ligament, 94f,
Rectus femoris tendon, 28f, 54f, 70f 100, 110f
Remodeling phase, of injury process, 23 Taping. See also Tearing of tape Ulnar nerve, 93f, 120f
Removal procedure, 13–15 benefits, 3 Underwrap. See Prewrap
from the ankle, 13–14, 14fs product manufacturers, 7 Upper limb surface, 92f–93f, 108f–109f,
peeling off from skin, 14, 14fs smoothing of, 12 119f–120f
Remover, for tape, 6, 6f supplies, 3 –7
Repair phase, of injury process, 23 supply companies, 7 Varus (bow-legged force) stress,
Rhomboideus major, 121f Taping procedure, 12 –13 116
Rhomboideus minor, 121f advantages and disadvantages, 19t Vastus intermedius, 54f, 70f
Rib bruise wrap anatomy, significance in taping, 15 Vastus lateralis, 28f, 54f, 70f
common errors, 129b athlete/patient cooperation, 16–17 Vastus medialis, 28f, 54f, 70f
goal of procedure, 127 for skin wound and/or blister, 17 Vertebra prominens, 121f
injury description, 127 straight to the skin vs prewrap, 18
patient positioning, 128fs Tear light, 3 Websites, for sports medicine supply
procedure, 128fs–129fs Tearing of tape, 9fs–10fs companies, 7
supplies needed, 127 mistakes, 10fs–12fs Wounds, treatment of, 25
tips, 129b Tendocalcaneus, 29f–30f Wrapping
RICE method, of treating injuries, 23 –24, Tendon of semitendinosus, 55f, 71f applying an elastic wrap, 19–20, 19fs
24f Tendonitis, 25 over spandex/lycra type materials, 21
Tendons of extensor digitorum longus, 28f special considerations, 21
Sartorius, 54f–55f, 70f–71f Tension, of tape, 12–13 tips, 20–21
Sartorius tendon, 28f Tensor fascia lata, 54f, 70f and use of low-density pads, 21
Scapula, 122f–123f Teres major, 121f Wrinkles, in the tape, 12
Scar tissue, development, 23 Teres minor, 121f Wrist (carpal), 92f, 108f, 119f
School Health Corp., 7 Thigh contusion (bruise), taping for Wrist sprain/strain, taping for
Scissors, for tape removal, 5, 5f common errors, 89b common errors, 96b
Semimembranosus, 29f, 55f, 71f goal of procedure, 86 goal of procedure, 95
Semispinalis capitis, 121f injury description, 86 injury description, 95
Semitendinosus, 29f, 55f, 71f patient positioning, 87fs patient positioning, 96fs
Serratus anterior, 121f procedure, 87fs–88fs procedure, 96fs
Serratus inferior, 121f supplies needed, 86 supplies needed, 95
Serratus posterior, 121f tips, 89b tips, 96b
Shin splints, taping for Thigh (femoral), 54f, 70f Wrist wrap, basic
common errors, 40b Thoracolumbar fascia, 121f common errors, 106b
goal of procedure, 39 Thumb check rein goal of procedure, 105
injury description, 39 common errors, 102b injury description, 105
patient positioning, 39fs goal of procedure, 100 patient positioning, 105fs
procedure, 39fs–40fs injury description, 100 procedure, 106fs
supplies needed, 39 patient positioning, 101fs supplies needed, 105
tips, 40b procedure, 101fs
Shoulder wrap, basic supplies needed, 100 Zinc oxide, 25
common errors, 125b tips, 102b Zinc oxide bleached tape, 3
goal of procedure, 123 Thumb (pollex), 92f, 108f, 119f

Taping and Wrapping Made Simple

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Taping and Wrapping Made Simple

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Taping and Wrapping

Brad A. Abell, MEd, ATC, LAT

© 2010 by LIPPINCOTT WILLIAMS & WILKINS, a Wolters Kluwer business

530 Walnut Street

Printed in the USA

Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data

Taping and Wrapping Basics

Chapter 1 Introduction to Taping and Wrapping Supplies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Chapter 2 Basic Skills of Taping and Wrapping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Chapter 3 Basic Injury and Wound Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Chapter 4 Lower Leg . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Chapter 8 Elbow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107

Chapter 9 Shoulder/Thorax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118

Appendix A Anatomical Positioning and Terminology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130

Bridget Avery, MS, ATC

Chris Franklin, ATC

Philip Hackmann, ATC, LATC, EMT-I

Linda S. Levy, EdD, ATC

Kyle Momsen, MA, ATC

Michael Moore, PhD, ATC

Dexter Nelson, MSc, CAT(C)

Jennifer O’Donoghue, MA, ATC, CSCS

Patrick Olsen, MS, ATC

Jennifer M. Plos, EdD, ATC

Renee L. Polubinsky, EdD, ATC, CSCS

Jack Ransone, PhD, ATC, FACSM

Tracye Rawls-Martin, MS, ATC

Hal Strough, PhD

Tom Stueber, MS, ATC

Janet Wilbert, EdD

Greg Zuest, PhD, ATC

nfortunately athletic trainers aren’t in every sports setting or team situation.

X Describe the beneﬁts of taping/wrapping

X Identify various taping/wrapping supplies

X Determine what supplies are needed for taping/wrapping

X Distinguish between the different types of tapes and foams

X Describe what each common taping/wrapping supply

X Deﬁne terminology related to taping/wrapping

Why use tape? Taping is beneﬁcial because it can:

Taping and Wrapping Supplies

Light-Duty Elastic Tape (see Fig. 1-2)

• Used primarily as a base for nonelastic

Heavy-Duty Elastic Tape (see Fig. 1-3)

Prewrap or Underwrap (see Fig. 1-4)

Tape Adherent (see Fig. 1-5)

Tape Cutters (see Fig. 1-6)

Tape Scissors (see Fig. 1-7)

Heel and Lace Pads (see Fig. 1-8)

Tape Remover (see Fig. 1-9)

Razor/Clippers (see 1-10)

Elastic Wraps (see Fig. 1-11)

Padding (see Fig. 1-12)

Sports Medicine Product Manufacturers

Sports Medicine Supply Companies

X Demonstrate the proper skills needed to tear tape

X Identify common mistakes made when trying to tear tape

X Identify important aspects to consider when taping/wrapping

X Demonstrate the proper skills needed to remove tape

X Deﬁne terminology related to taping/wrapping

Step 4: As tension is applied, move the tape roll toward or away

Mistake no. 2: There is space between the thumbs and/or index

Mistake no. 4: Not applying enough pressure with the thumbs. It is

When practicing to tear tape, it is common to develop blisters or even calluses

Tape Manipulation and Body Angles