Sports Strapping Tape – Preparation and Removal

Before you apply the tape, you need to prepare the area to be taped by:

• Shaving the area - for best results, wet-shaving the skin 12 hours before or using an electric razor just prior.
• Cleaning the area by using a tape remover to remove the body oil.
• Covering any rashes or broken skin with a non-stick wound pad such as Elastoplast Soft Feel Compress.
• Applying an underwrap to the area, (optional). An underwrap, such as Elastoplast Sport Adhesive Underwrap will help protect tape-sensitive skin.

• Flexing the muscles when applying the tape will help you get the correct tension.
• Check that the tape is not too tight by pinching the skin below the tape for a few seconds. The skin should return to its normal colour when released.
• If the tape is too loose, it will not support the joint.
• If it is too tight, then it could cut off the blood supply.
• If numbness and tingling result, remove tape or bandage and reapply with reduced tightness.

• Joints are normally strapped in their "at rest" position.
• Do not use the limb to pull against when getting the tape off the roll.
• Hold the roll in one hand and pull the tape off with the other hand, then apply gently OR cut off the required number of strips of the correct length before you start applying. Elastoplast’s Hand Tearable Elastic Adhesive Bandages make tape application quick and easy with no scissors required.

For maximum strength, overlap each layer of strapping tape by 1/3-1/2.

The amount you use depends upon the amount of support you need. If you use too little, then you are not providing enough support to the joint. If you use too much, then you could reduce the mobility of surrounding muscles.

• Remove the tape as soon as you have finished training or playing.

• Ideally, remove the tape using bandage scissors. Place the scissors over a soft part of the limb (not over the bone) then slide under the tape and cut.
• Peel down over the top of the tape. Do not peel at right angles away from the limb.
• Peel gently and evenly - do not rip.
• A tape remover can help to quickly and painlessly remove tapes and bandages. It also helps to remove any tape residue from the skin.

To restrict joint movement, it is best to use a rigid strapping tape, such as Elastoplast Rigid Strapping Tape.

USE:	PRODUCT:
Preventative ankle taping	Rigid Strapping Tape 38mm or 50mm for large joints
Treatment such as injured ankle, elbow, fingers	Rigid Strapping Tape 25mm or 12.5mm
Treatment such as injured shoulder, knee, feet	Rigid Strapping Tape 50mm

 

To compress and support joints or muscles, use an elastic adhesive bandage, like Elastoplast’s Elastic Adhesive Bandage.

USE:	PRODUCT:
For strong compression when returning from injury, eg sprained knee. To be used over rigid tape.	Elastic Adhesive Bandage 75mm
For initial compression, eg, acute ankle sprain	Elastic Adhesive Bandage 50mm

 

Always see your doctor if the wound is deep, bleeding or shows signs of infection like reddening, swelling or warmth.  

Also make sure to seek medical help if you are not able to clean the wound properly.
In case you have diabetes a proper wound care is of special importance. Always discuss any concerns you may have with your doctor and/or podiatrist, even for the care of minor wounds and skin cracks – especially on your feet.
 
Please note that none of the above given tips or recommendations substitute medical advice. Carefully read the instructions for use given in our products‘ packages. Important: consult a health professional in case of any uncertainty of treating your wound properly.
 
The information provided through this website should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease. It is not a substitute for professional care or advice. If you have or suspect a health problem, you should consult your doctor. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it, because of something you have read on this website.

For further information regarding Elastoplast products, please contact us via email on anz.consumerservices@beiersdorf.com. Carefully read the instructions for use given in our products' packages.