Taping and wrapping techniques:
Introduction
As athletic trainers, we rely on taping and wrapping to provide support, immobilization, and
protection for injured athletes. These techniques allow athletes to continue competing and
training even when recovering from various musculoskeletal injuries. It is imperative that
we develop mastery over a variety of taping styles so that we can properly apply them in
clinical settings.
This hands-on assignment will provide opportunities to practice foundational taping and
wrapping methods. Through demonstrations, return demonstrations, and case studies,
students will develop competency in techniques for the ankle, knee, shoulder, wrist/hand
and other body regions. Emphasis will be placed on indications, contraindications,
materials and step-by-step application procedures. The goal is to leave feeling confident
applying evidenced-based taping techniques that optimize injury management.
Section 1: Ankle Taping
Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries seen in sports which puts clinical
competency in ankle taping at a premium. Let’s review proper procedures:
Demonstration: Apply prewrap and heel/toe pads to ensure skin protection and padding.
Use rigid athletic tape (1.5”-2”) starting proximally at the malleoli.
Start with a plantar flexion protective strap by wrapping under the foot and over the malleoli
3 times for added stability.
Next, apply inferior stirrup taps by wrapping around the forefoot behind the malleoli and
crossing under the arch to reinforce the lateral ligaments.
Follow with a figure-8 technique looping around the ankle laterally and medially for further
support of weak ligaments.
Finish with an external buttress component wrapping around the leg above the malleoli for
compression before trimming excess tape.
Check for proper tension, overlap, and skin protection before clearing the athlete to return
to activity appropriately braced. Reapply as needed, usually every 5-7 days.
Return Demonstration: Return demonstration reveals student has successfully mastered
the ankle taping procedure with correctly applied plantarflexion strap, stirrup taps, figure-8,
and external buttress components providing uniform compression across the ankle joint.
The taping technique was smoothly performed in under 10 minutes with no skin
compromise from the rigid tape.
Discussion: Routine ankle taping improves joint position sense and proprioception which
in turn decreases reinjury risk during rehabilitation. Developing craft with this common
injury prevents time lost for athletes in recovery. Ongoing practice ensures competency
with this fundamental taping method.
Section 2: Knee Bracing & Taping
The ACL in particular is vulnerable to reinjury, so protective knee bracing and taping
techniques for stabilizing collateral and cruciate ligaments are important clinical skills:
Demonstration: For an ACL injury in need of light bracing during rehab, apply a prewrap and
then a basic knee sleeve or band wrapped around the patella tendon. The compressive
sleeve provides proprioceptive feedback without limiting motion.
For more substantial knee instability, apply rigid tape (2”) starting superior to the patella by
wrapping circumferentially around the knee while applying medial and lateral tension for
stability. Reinforce this hinge taping with additional figure-8 passes around the joint line.
Bracing the collaterals further involves applying vertical medial and lateral heel locks
running from the knee to just below the tibial tubercle. Finish by firmly patting the tape and
checking for proper compression and skin protection.
As needed, reinforce existing bracing with athletic tape application focusing on specific
ligament deficiencies identified during knee exams. Monitor for proper fit, tension and skin
issues with bracing over time.
Return Demonstration: Student accurately performs knee taping utilizing the figure-8,
circumferential hinge and heel lock components with even tension across collateral and
cruciate ligament insertions on both sides of the knee. Proper technique was
demonstrated efficiently and without tape overhang or skin compromise.
Discussion: Developing proficiency with taping and bracing techniques for the vulnerable
knee protects healing tissues and progression during rehab. Ongoing practice ensures best
outcomes when stabilizing knee injuries are case specific. Improving efficiency also
optimizes treatment.
Section 3: Shoulder Stabilization
Subacromial impingement and instability are frequent shoulder issues requiring protective
taping:
Demonstration: Begin by applying prewrap and circular shoulder pads placed below and
medial to the acromion. Use rigid tape (1.5”) starting high on the upper arm posteriorly.
Apply figure-of-8 circles around the scapula crossing the medial border to provide
compression medially for impingement symptoms.
Then reinforce with circular passes spiraling down around the humerus providing stability
to the glenohumeral joint.
Finish with a posterior sling crossing the tapes behind the shoulder from back to front
adding further compression to the anterior capsule.
Recheck tension and ensure padding prior to clearing the athlete. Re-tape every 5-7 days or
as skin compromise occurs.
Return Demonstration: The student successfully applies shoulder taping with appropriate
tensioning of figure-8 and circular components to compress the impingement point and
stabilize the glenohumeral joint. Padding is correctly placed and prewrap applied smoothly
without wrinkles or compression of vasculature. Proper taping was performed efficiently.
Discussion: Continued practice applying supportive yet restrictive shoulder taping
methods strengthens skills in managing common shoulder injuries. Refining efficiency
optimizes treatment outcomes through repeat reliable applications meeting individual
patient needs.
Section 4: Wrist & Hand Immobilization
The ultra-mobile wrist and hand require special consideration when stabilizing fractures
and soft tissue injuries:
Demonstration: Clean and pad any bony prominences before applying prewrap for skinned
protection. Use a removable self-adherent wrap starting distally at the fingers and spiraling
circumferentially upwards toward the forearm.
Next, reinforce with overlapping figure-8s spanning between the thenar and hypothenar
eminences for thumb and small finger stability. Ensure intact digital flexion by padding
between each finger.
Finish proximally by applying coban around the forearm for further immobilization while
allowing gentle wrist motion as healing allows. Pad all areas and check motion, sensation
and vascularity before and after application.
Monitor closely for skin compromise from circumferential immobilization and swelling.
Adjust wrappings to prevent further injury as needed.
Return Demonstration: The student correctly padded bony prominences before applying
smoothly overlapping layers from fingertips to forearm with gentle flexion preserved
between each digit. The self-adherent wrap was smoothly applied and reinforced with
figure-8s perfectly spanning thenar to hypothenar areas. Wrist and finger mobility,
sensation and circulation were appropriately checked before and after application meeting
technique standards. Wrapping was performed efficiently in under 15 minutes.
Discussion: Gaining experience stabilizing delicate hand and wrist injuries optimizes
immobilization for healing while allowing safe return to function. Continued practice
refines technique efficiency and individualized modifications meeting patient needs.
Section 5: Hamstring & Thigh Wrapping
Soft tissue injuries of the lower extremity require different stabilization strategies:
Demonstration: Clean and apply prewrap followed by non-elastic self-adherent wrap
starting at the distal thigh just proximal to the knee joint.
Overlap circular layers proximally in a flossing motion isolating the hamstring musculature
during the wrap. Pad behind the knee if intact.
Apply moderate initial tension avoiding excessive pressure distally which may affect
circulation. Monitor close contours and skin compromise as swelling fluctuates.
Re-wrap every 2-3 days during acute healing or as needed based on skin integrity, tension
or swelling changes. Adjust flossing patterns to accommodate specific injury sites.
Return Demonstration: The student applies overlapping concentric wraps smoothly from
knee to hip isolating the hamstrings with gentle but sufficient tensioning. The padding was
correctly placed and wrap smoothed around contours without excessive pressure
proximally or distally. Rechecking for vascularity, sensation and skin compromise was also
appropriately demonstrated meeting proficiency standards.
Discussion: Practicing lower extremity wrapping aids developing judgment to individualize
rigidity levels meeting rehab needs. Refining craft optimizes tissue protection and joint
stability promoting quick returns.
Section 6: Advanced Ankle Bracing
Let’s review options for more serious ankle instability:
Demonstration: For moderate ankle sprains with ligament laxity, reinforce standard ankle
taping with a figure-8 tape brace circumferentially wrapping immediately above and below
the malleoli. Apply rigidity with multiple passes.
For severe injuries, also incorporate an air stirrup brace underneath the tape brace.
Position the plantar shell component under the foot and secure the upright stirrup posts
lateral and medial to the malleoli. Inflate as indicated.
Custom ankle orthoses can provide integrated plastic semi-rigid shells and straps to
maximize immobilization during healing. Carefully measure, apply and adjust the fitting per
orthotist recommendations.
Re-evaluate rigidity as healing allows, substituting taping only once residual laxity resolves
with advanced progressive bracing.
Return Demonstration: The student accurately layers ankle taping applied with a figure-8
brace for added rigidity in a severe inversion sprain case study. Strategies for incorporating
additional air stirrup bracing or custom ankle-foot orthoses were also thoughtfully reviewed
meeting the objective.
Discussion: Understanding progressive bracing options optimizes outcomes for significant
ankle instability beyond basic taping alone. Referencing advanced resources aids clinical
decision making and injury management.
Section 7: Case Study Practice
Students will now have hands-on practice partnering to individually apply different taping
and wrapping techniques on each other covering injuries addressed in this course under
instructor guidance and feedback.
Case 1 – A collegiate lacrosse player sustains an ankle inversion sprain. Apply standard
ankle taping.
Assessment: Student correctly applies prewrap, heel/toe pads and the foundational ankle
taping technique—including plantarflexion strap, inferior stirrup taps and figure-8
components—to support the injured ankle. Tension is appropriate and all components are
smoothly applied meeting course standards.
Case 2 – A recreational runner experiences lateral knee pain on trails. Apply basic knee
sleeve bracing.
Assessment: The knee sleeve bracing is smoothly applied with proper tensioning centered
over the patella tendon providing good proprioceptive feedback without compromising
knee motion for this case. Application meets expectations.
Case 3 – A high school baseball pitcher has shoulder pain aggravating activity. Apply
supportive shoulder taping.
Assessment: The shoulder taping is correctly applied with rigid tape figure-8s and circular
reinforcements appropriately tensioned to compress the painful impingement point under
the acromion and stabilize the glenohumeral joint. Padding is correctly positioned and
taping smoothly applied per demonstration standards.
Conclusion
Thank you for the opportunity to practice and demonstrate important taping and wrapping
techniques. Developing proficiency in stabilizing techniques for common sports injuries
strengthens clinical skills and promotes best practices in injury management. Ongoing
practice applying varied techniques to mock patient case studies optimizes preparedness
to confidently Brace real-world acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions.
Introduction
As athletic trainers, we rely on taping and wrapping to provide support, immobilization, and
protection for injured athletes. These techniques allow athletes to continue competing and
training even when recovering from various musculoskeletal injuries. It is imperative that
we develop mastery over a variety of taping styles so that we can properly apply them in
clinical settings.
This hands-on assignment will provide opportunities to practice foundational taping and
wrapping methods. Through demonstrations, return demonstrations, and case studies,
students will develop competency in techniques for the ankle, knee, shoulder, wrist/hand
and other body regions. Emphasis will be placed on indications, contraindications,
materials and step-by-step application procedures. The goal is to leave feeling confident
applying evidenced-based taping techniques that optimize injury management.
Section 1: Ankle Taping
Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries seen in sports which puts clinical
competency in ankle taping at a premium. Let’s review proper procedures:
Demonstration: Apply prewrap and heel/toe pads to ensure skin protection and padding.
Use rigid athletic tape (1.5”-2”) starting proximally at the malleoli.
Start with a plantar flexion protective strap by wrapping under the foot and over the malleoli
3 times for added stability.
Next, apply inferior stirrup taps by wrapping around the forefoot behind the malleoli and
crossing under the arch to reinforce the lateral ligaments.
Follow with a figure-8 technique looping around the ankle laterally and medially for further
support of weak ligaments.
Finish with an external buttress component wrapping around the leg above the malleoli for
compression before trimming excess tape.
Check for proper tension, overlap, and skin protection before clearing the athlete to return
to activity appropriately braced. Reapply as needed, usually every 5-7 days.
Return Demonstration: Return demonstration reveals student has successfully mastered
the ankle taping procedure with correctly applied plantarflexion strap, stirrup taps, figure-8,
and external buttress components providing uniform compression across the ankle joint.
The taping technique was smoothly performed in under 10 minutes with no skin
compromise from the rigid tape.
Discussion: Routine ankle taping improves joint position sense and proprioception which
in turn decreases reinjury risk during rehabilitation. Developing craft with this common
injury prevents time lost for athletes in recovery. Ongoing practice ensures competency
with this fundamental taping method.
Section 2: Knee Bracing & Taping
The ACL in particular is vulnerable to reinjury, so protective knee bracing and taping
techniques for stabilizing collateral and cruciate ligaments are important clinical skills:
Demonstration: For an ACL injury in need of light bracing during rehab, apply a prewrap and
then a basic knee sleeve or band wrapped around the patella tendon. The compressive
sleeve provides proprioceptive feedback without limiting motion.
For more substantial knee instability, apply rigid tape (2”) starting superior to the patella by
wrapping circumferentially around the knee while applying medial and lateral tension for
stability. Reinforce this hinge taping with additional figure-8 passes around the joint line.
Bracing the collaterals further involves applying vertical medial and lateral heel locks
running from the knee to just below the tibial tubercle. Finish by firmly patting the tape and
checking for proper compression and skin protection.
As needed, reinforce existing bracing with athletic tape application focusing on specific
ligament deficiencies identified during knee exams. Monitor for proper fit, tension and skin
issues with bracing over time.
Return Demonstration: Student accurately performs knee taping utilizing the figure-8,
circumferential hinge and heel lock components with even tension across collateral and
cruciate ligament insertions on both sides of the knee. Proper technique was
demonstrated efficiently and without tape overhang or skin compromise.
Discussion: Developing proficiency with taping and bracing techniques for the vulnerable
knee protects healing tissues and progression during rehab. Ongoing practice ensures best
outcomes when stabilizing knee injuries are case specific. Improving efficiency also
optimizes treatment.
Section 3: Shoulder Stabilization
Subacromial impingement and instability are frequent shoulder issues requiring protective
taping:
Demonstration: Begin by applying prewrap and circular shoulder pads placed below and
medial to the acromion. Use rigid tape (1.5”) starting high on the upper arm posteriorly.
Apply figure-of-8 circles around the scapula crossing the medial border to provide
compression medially for impingement symptoms.
Then reinforce with circular passes spiraling down around the humerus providing stability
to the glenohumeral joint.
Finish with a posterior sling crossing the tapes behind the shoulder from back to front
adding further compression to the anterior capsule.
Recheck tension and ensure padding prior to clearing the athlete. Re-tape every 5-7 days or
as skin compromise occurs.
Return Demonstration: The student successfully applies shoulder taping with appropriate
tensioning of figure-8 and circular components to compress the impingement point and
stabilize the glenohumeral joint. Padding is correctly placed and prewrap applied smoothly
without wrinkles or compression of vasculature. Proper taping was performed efficiently.
Discussion: Continued practice applying supportive yet restrictive shoulder taping
methods strengthens skills in managing common shoulder injuries. Refining efficiency
optimizes treatment outcomes through repeat reliable applications meeting individual
patient needs.
Section 4: Wrist & Hand Immobilization
The ultra-mobile wrist and hand require special consideration when stabilizing fractures
and soft tissue injuries:
Demonstration: Clean and pad any bony prominences before applying prewrap for skinned
protection. Use a removable self-adherent wrap starting distally at the fingers and spiraling
circumferentially upwards toward the forearm.
Next, reinforce with overlapping figure-8s spanning between the thenar and hypothenar
eminences for thumb and small finger stability. Ensure intact digital flexion by padding
between each finger.
Finish proximally by applying coban around the forearm for further immobilization while
allowing gentle wrist motion as healing allows. Pad all areas and check motion, sensation
and vascularity before and after application.
Monitor closely for skin compromise from circumferential immobilization and swelling.
Adjust wrappings to prevent further injury as needed.
Return Demonstration: The student correctly padded bony prominences before applying
smoothly overlapping layers from fingertips to forearm with gentle flexion preserved
between each digit. The self-adherent wrap was smoothly applied and reinforced with
figure-8s perfectly spanning thenar to hypothenar areas. Wrist and finger mobility,
sensation and circulation were appropriately checked before and after application meeting
technique standards. Wrapping was performed efficiently in under 15 minutes.
Discussion: Gaining experience stabilizing delicate hand and wrist injuries optimizes
immobilization for healing while allowing safe return to function. Continued practice
refines technique efficiency and individualized modifications meeting patient needs.
Section 5: Hamstring & Thigh Wrapping
Soft tissue injuries of the lower extremity require different stabilization strategies:
Demonstration: Clean and apply prewrap followed by non-elastic self-adherent wrap
starting at the distal thigh just proximal to the knee joint.
Overlap circular layers proximally in a flossing motion isolating the hamstring musculature
during the wrap. Pad behind the knee if intact.
Apply moderate initial tension avoiding excessive pressure distally which may affect
circulation. Monitor close contours and skin compromise as swelling fluctuates.
Re-wrap every 2-3 days during acute healing or as needed based on skin integrity, tension
or swelling changes. Adjust flossing patterns to accommodate specific injury sites.
Return Demonstration: The student applies overlapping concentric wraps smoothly from
knee to hip isolating the hamstrings with gentle but sufficient tensioning. The padding was
correctly placed and wrap smoothed around contours without excessive pressure
proximally or distally. Rechecking for vascularity, sensation and skin compromise was also
appropriately demonstrated meeting proficiency standards.
Discussion: Practicing lower extremity wrapping aids developing judgment to individualize
rigidity levels meeting rehab needs. Refining craft optimizes tissue protection and joint
stability promoting quick returns.
Section 6: Advanced Ankle Bracing
Let’s review options for more serious ankle instability:
Demonstration: For moderate ankle sprains with ligament laxity, reinforce standard ankle
taping with a figure-8 tape brace circumferentially wrapping immediately above and below
the malleoli. Apply rigidity with multiple passes.
For severe injuries, also incorporate an air stirrup brace underneath the tape brace.
Position the plantar shell component under the foot and secure the upright stirrup posts
lateral and medial to the malleoli. Inflate as indicated.
Custom ankle orthoses can provide integrated plastic semi-rigid shells and straps to
maximize immobilization during healing. Carefully measure, apply and adjust the fitting per
orthotist recommendations.
Re-evaluate rigidity as healing allows, substituting taping only once residual laxity resolves
with advanced progressive bracing.
Return Demonstration: The student accurately layers ankle taping applied with a figure-8
brace for added rigidity in a severe inversion sprain case study. Strategies for incorporating
additional air stirrup bracing or custom ankle-foot orthoses were also thoughtfully reviewed
meeting the objective.
Discussion: Understanding progressive bracing options optimizes outcomes for significant
ankle instability beyond basic taping alone. Referencing advanced resources aids clinical
decision making and injury management.
Section 7: Case Study Practice
Students will now have hands-on practice partnering to individually apply different taping
and wrapping techniques on each other covering injuries addressed in this course under
instructor guidance and feedback.
Case 1 – A collegiate lacrosse player sustains an ankle inversion sprain. Apply standard
ankle taping.
Assessment: Student correctly applies prewrap, heel/toe pads and the foundational ankle
taping technique—including plantarflexion strap, inferior stirrup taps and figure-8
components—to support the injured ankle. Tension is appropriate and all components are
smoothly applied meeting course standards.
Case 2 – A recreational runner experiences lateral knee pain on trails. Apply basic knee
sleeve bracing.
Assessment: The knee sleeve bracing is smoothly applied with proper tensioning centered
over the patella tendon providing good proprioceptive feedback without compromising
knee motion for this case. Application meets expectations.
Case 3 – A high school baseball pitcher has shoulder pain aggravating activity. Apply
supportive shoulder taping.
Assessment: The shoulder taping is correctly applied with rigid tape figure-8s and circular
reinforcements appropriately tensioned to compress the painful impingement point under
the acromion and stabilize the glenohumeral joint. Padding is correctly positioned and
taping smoothly applied per demonstration standards.
Conclusion
Thank you for the opportunity to practice and demonstrate important taping and wrapping
techniques. Developing proficiency in stabilizing techniques for common sports injuries
strengthens clinical skills and promotes best practices in injury management. Ongoing
practice applying varied techniques to mock patient case studies optimizes preparedness
to confidently Brace real-world acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions.
Introduction
As athletic trainers, we rely on taping and wrapping to provide support, immobilization, and
protection for injured athletes. These techniques allow athletes to continue competing and
training even when recovering from various musculoskeletal injuries. It is imperative that
we develop mastery over a variety of taping styles so that we can properly apply them in
clinical settings.
This hands-on assignment will provide opportunities to practice foundational taping and
wrapping methods. Through demonstrations, return demonstrations, and case studies,
students will develop competency in techniques for the ankle, knee, shoulder, wrist/hand
and other body regions. Emphasis will be placed on indications, contraindications,
materials and step-by-step application procedures. The goal is to leave feeling confident
applying evidenced-based taping techniques that optimize injury management.
Section 1: Ankle Taping
Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries seen in sports which puts clinical
competency in ankle taping at a premium. Let’s review proper procedures:
Demonstration: Apply prewrap and heel/toe pads to ensure skin protection and padding.
Use rigid athletic tape (1.5”-2”) starting proximally at the malleoli.
Start with a plantar flexion protective strap by wrapping under the foot and over the malleoli
3 times for added stability.
Next, apply inferior stirrup taps by wrapping around the forefoot behind the malleoli and
crossing under the arch to reinforce the lateral ligaments.
Follow with a figure-8 technique looping around the ankle laterally and medially for further
support of weak ligaments.
Finish with an external buttress component wrapping around the leg above the malleoli for
compression before trimming excess tape.
Check for proper tension, overlap, and skin protection before clearing the athlete to return
to activity appropriately braced. Reapply as needed, usually every 5-7 days.
Return Demonstration: Return demonstration reveals student has successfully mastered
the ankle taping procedure with correctly applied plantarflexion strap, stirrup taps, figure-8,
and external buttress components providing uniform compression across the ankle joint.
The taping technique was smoothly performed in under 10 minutes with no skin
compromise from the rigid tape.
Discussion: Routine ankle taping improves joint position sense and proprioception which
in turn decreases reinjury risk during rehabilitation. Developing craft with this common
injury prevents time lost for athletes in recovery. Ongoing practice ensures competency
with this fundamental taping method.
Section 2: Knee Bracing & Taping
The ACL in particular is vulnerable to reinjury, so protective knee bracing and taping
techniques for stabilizing collateral and cruciate ligaments are important clinical skills:
Demonstration: For an ACL injury in need of light bracing during rehab, apply a prewrap and
then a basic knee sleeve or band wrapped around the patella tendon. The compressive
sleeve provides proprioceptive feedback without limiting motion.
For more substantial knee instability, apply rigid tape (2”) starting superior to the patella by
wrapping circumferentially around the knee while applying medial and lateral tension for
stability. Reinforce this hinge taping with additional figure-8 passes around the joint line.
Bracing the collaterals further involves applying vertical medial and lateral heel locks
running from the knee to just below the tibial tubercle. Finish by firmly patting the tape and
checking for proper compression and skin protection.
As needed, reinforce existing bracing with athletic tape application focusing on specific
ligament deficiencies identified during knee exams. Monitor for proper fit, tension and skin
issues with bracing over time.
Return Demonstration: Student accurately performs knee taping utilizing the figure-8,
circumferential hinge and heel lock components with even tension across collateral and
cruciate ligament insertions on both sides of the knee. Proper technique was
demonstrated efficiently and without tape overhang or skin compromise.
Discussion: Developing proficiency with taping and bracing techniques for the vulnerable
knee protects healing tissues and progression during rehab. Ongoing practice ensures best
outcomes when stabilizing knee injuries are case specific. Improving efficiency also
optimizes treatment.
Section 3: Shoulder Stabilization
Subacromial impingement and instability are frequent shoulder issues requiring protective
taping:
Demonstration: Begin by applying prewrap and circular shoulder pads placed below and
medial to the acromion. Use rigid tape (1.5”) starting high on the upper arm posteriorly.
Apply figure-of-8 circles around the scapula crossing the medial border to provide
compression medially for impingement symptoms.
Then reinforce with circular passes spiraling down around the humerus providing stability
to the glenohumeral joint.
Finish with a posterior sling crossing the tapes behind the shoulder from back to front
adding further compression to the anterior capsule.
Recheck tension and ensure padding prior to clearing the athlete. Re-tape every 5-7 days or
as skin compromise occurs.
Return Demonstration: The student successfully applies shoulder taping with appropriate
tensioning of figure-8 and circular components to compress the impingement point and
stabilize the glenohumeral joint. Padding is correctly placed and prewrap applied smoothly
without wrinkles or compression of vasculature. Proper taping was performed efficiently.
Discussion: Continued practice applying supportive yet restrictive shoulder taping
methods strengthens skills in managing common shoulder injuries. Refining efficiency
optimizes treatment outcomes through repeat reliable applications meeting individual
patient needs.
Section 4: Wrist & Hand Immobilization
The ultra-mobile wrist and hand require special consideration when stabilizing fractures
and soft tissue injuries:
Demonstration: Clean and pad any bony prominences before applying prewrap for skinned
protection. Use a removable self-adherent wrap starting distally at the fingers and spiraling
circumferentially upwards toward the forearm.
Next, reinforce with overlapping figure-8s spanning between the thenar and hypothenar
eminences for thumb and small finger stability. Ensure intact digital flexion by padding
between each finger.
Finish proximally by applying coban around the forearm for further immobilization while
allowing gentle wrist motion as healing allows. Pad all areas and check motion, sensation
and vascularity before and after application.
Monitor closely for skin compromise from circumferential immobilization and swelling.
Adjust wrappings to prevent further injury as needed.
Return Demonstration: The student correctly padded bony prominences before applying
smoothly overlapping layers from fingertips to forearm with gentle flexion preserved
between each digit. The self-adherent wrap was smoothly applied and reinforced with
figure-8s perfectly spanning thenar to hypothenar areas. Wrist and finger mobility,
sensation and circulation were appropriately checked before and after application meeting
technique standards. Wrapping was performed efficiently in under 15 minutes.
Discussion: Gaining experience stabilizing delicate hand and wrist injuries optimizes
immobilization for healing while allowing safe return to function. Continued practice
refines technique efficiency and individualized modifications meeting patient needs.
Section 5: Hamstring & Thigh Wrapping
Soft tissue injuries of the lower extremity require different stabilization strategies:
Demonstration: Clean and apply prewrap followed by non-elastic self-adherent wrap
starting at the distal thigh just proximal to the knee joint.
Overlap circular layers proximally in a flossing motion isolating the hamstring musculature
during the wrap. Pad behind the knee if intact.
Apply moderate initial tension avoiding excessive pressure distally which may affect
circulation. Monitor close contours and skin compromise as swelling fluctuates.
Re-wrap every 2-3 days during acute healing or as needed based on skin integrity, tension
or swelling changes. Adjust flossing patterns to accommodate specific injury sites.
Return Demonstration: The student applies overlapping concentric wraps smoothly from
knee to hip isolating the hamstrings with gentle but sufficient tensioning. The padding was
correctly placed and wrap smoothed around contours without excessive pressure
proximally or distally. Rechecking for vascularity, sensation and skin compromise was also
appropriately demonstrated meeting proficiency standards.
Discussion: Practicing lower extremity wrapping aids developing judgment to individualize
rigidity levels meeting rehab needs. Refining craft optimizes tissue protection and joint
stability promoting quick returns.
Section 6: Advanced Ankle Bracing
Let’s review options for more serious ankle instability:
Demonstration: For moderate ankle sprains with ligament laxity, reinforce standard ankle
taping with a figure-8 tape brace circumferentially wrapping immediately above and below
the malleoli. Apply rigidity with multiple passes.
For severe injuries, also incorporate an air stirrup brace underneath the tape brace.
Position the plantar shell component under the foot and secure the upright stirrup posts
lateral and medial to the malleoli. Inflate as indicated.
Custom ankle orthoses can provide integrated plastic semi-rigid shells and straps to
maximize immobilization during healing. Carefully measure, apply and adjust the fitting per
orthotist recommendations.
Re-evaluate rigidity as healing allows, substituting taping only once residual laxity resolves
with advanced progressive bracing.
Return Demonstration: The student accurately layers ankle taping applied with a figure-8
brace for added rigidity in a severe inversion sprain case study. Strategies for incorporating
additional air stirrup bracing or custom ankle-foot orthoses were also thoughtfully reviewed
meeting the objective.
Discussion: Understanding progressive bracing options optimizes outcomes for significant
ankle instability beyond basic taping alone. Referencing advanced resources aids clinical
decision making and injury management.
Section 7: Case Study Practice
Students will now have hands-on practice partnering to individually apply different taping
and wrapping techniques on each other covering injuries addressed in this course under
instructor guidance and feedback.
Case 1 – A collegiate lacrosse player sustains an ankle inversion sprain. Apply standard
ankle taping.
Assessment: Student correctly applies prewrap, heel/toe pads and the foundational ankle
taping technique—including plantarflexion strap, inferior stirrup taps and figure-8
components—to support the injured ankle. Tension is appropriate and all components are
smoothly applied meeting course standards.
Case 2 – A recreational runner experiences lateral knee pain on trails. Apply basic knee
sleeve bracing.
Assessment: The knee sleeve bracing is smoothly applied with proper tensioning centered
over the patella tendon providing good proprioceptive feedback without compromising
knee motion for this case. Application meets expectations.
Case 3 – A high school baseball pitcher has shoulder pain aggravating activity. Apply
supportive shoulder taping.
Assessment: The shoulder taping is correctly applied with rigid tape figure-8s and circular
reinforcements appropriately tensioned to compress the painful impingement point under
the acromion and stabilize the glenohumeral joint. Padding is correctly positioned and
taping smoothly applied per demonstration standards.
Conclusion
Thank you for the opportunity to practice and demonstrate important taping and wrapping
techniques. Developing proficiency in stabilizing techniques for common sports injuries
strengthens clinical skills and promotes best practices in injury management. Ongoing
practice applying varied techniques to mock patient case studies optimizes preparedness
to confidently Brace real-world acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions.
Introduction
As athletic trainers, we rely on taping and wrapping to provide support, immobilization, and
protection for injured athletes. These techniques allow athletes to continue competing and
training even when recovering from various musculoskeletal injuries. It is imperative that
we develop mastery over a variety of taping styles so that we can properly apply them in
clinical settings.
This hands-on assignment will provide opportunities to practice foundational taping and
wrapping methods. Through demonstrations, return demonstrations, and case studies,
students will develop competency in techniques for the ankle, knee, shoulder, wrist/hand
and other body regions. Emphasis will be placed on indications, contraindications,
materials and step-by-step application procedures. The goal is to leave feeling confident
applying evidenced-based taping techniques that optimize injury management.
Section 1: Ankle Taping
Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries seen in sports which puts clinical
competency in ankle taping at a premium. Let’s review proper procedures:
Demonstration: Apply prewrap and heel/toe pads to ensure skin protection and padding.
Use rigid athletic tape (1.5”-2”) starting proximally at the malleoli.
Start with a plantar flexion protective strap by wrapping under the foot and over the malleoli
3 times for added stability.
Next, apply inferior stirrup taps by wrapping around the forefoot behind the malleoli and
crossing under the arch to reinforce the lateral ligaments.
Follow with a figure-8 technique looping around the ankle laterally and medially for further
support of weak ligaments.
Finish with an external buttress component wrapping around the leg above the malleoli for
compression before trimming excess tape.
Check for proper tension, overlap, and skin protection before clearing the athlete to return
to activity appropriately braced. Reapply as needed, usually every 5-7 days.
Return Demonstration: Return demonstration reveals student has successfully mastered
the ankle taping procedure with correctly applied plantarflexion strap, stirrup taps, figure-8,
and external buttress components providing uniform compression across the ankle joint.
The taping technique was smoothly performed in under 10 minutes with no skin
compromise from the rigid tape.
Discussion: Routine ankle taping improves joint position sense and proprioception which
in turn decreases reinjury risk during rehabilitation. Developing craft with this common
injury prevents time lost for athletes in recovery. Ongoing practice ensures competency
with this fundamental taping method.
Section 2: Knee Bracing & Taping
The ACL in particular is vulnerable to reinjury, so protective knee bracing and taping
techniques for stabilizing collateral and cruciate ligaments are important clinical skills:
Demonstration: For an ACL injury in need of light bracing during rehab, apply a prewrap and
then a basic knee sleeve or band wrapped around the patella tendon. The compressive
sleeve provides proprioceptive feedback without limiting motion.
For more substantial knee instability, apply rigid tape (2”) starting superior to the patella by
wrapping circumferentially around the knee while applying medial and lateral tension for
stability. Reinforce this hinge taping with additional figure-8 passes around the joint line.
Bracing the collaterals further involves applying vertical medial and lateral heel locks
running from the knee to just below the tibial tubercle. Finish by firmly patting the tape and
checking for proper compression and skin protection.
As needed, reinforce existing bracing with athletic tape application focusing on specific
ligament deficiencies identified during knee exams. Monitor for proper fit, tension and skin
issues with bracing over time.
Return Demonstration: Student accurately performs knee taping utilizing the figure-8,
circumferential hinge and heel lock components with even tension across collateral and
cruciate ligament insertions on both sides of the knee. Proper technique was
demonstrated efficiently and without tape overhang or skin compromise.
Discussion: Developing proficiency with taping and bracing techniques for the vulnerable
knee protects healing tissues and progression during rehab. Ongoing practice ensures best
outcomes when stabilizing knee injuries are case specific. Improving efficiency also
optimizes treatment.
Section 3: Shoulder Stabilization
Subacromial impingement and instability are frequent shoulder issues requiring protective
taping:
Demonstration: Begin by applying prewrap and circular shoulder pads placed below and
medial to the acromion. Use rigid tape (1.5”) starting high on the upper arm posteriorly.
Apply figure-of-8 circles around the scapula crossing the medial border to provide
compression medially for impingement symptoms.
Then reinforce with circular passes spiraling down around the humerus providing stability
to the glenohumeral joint.
Finish with a posterior sling crossing the tapes behind the shoulder from back to front
adding further compression to the anterior capsule.
Recheck tension and ensure padding prior to clearing the athlete. Re-tape every 5-7 days or
as skin compromise occurs.
Return Demonstration: The student successfully applies shoulder taping with appropriate
tensioning of figure-8 and circular components to compress the impingement point and
stabilize the glenohumeral joint. Padding is correctly placed and prewrap applied smoothly
without wrinkles or compression of vasculature. Proper taping was performed efficiently.
Discussion: Continued practice applying supportive yet restrictive shoulder taping
methods strengthens skills in managing common shoulder injuries. Refining efficiency
optimizes treatment outcomes through repeat reliable applications meeting individual
patient needs.
Section 4: Wrist & Hand Immobilization
The ultra-mobile wrist and hand require special consideration when stabilizing fractures
and soft tissue injuries:
Demonstration: Clean and pad any bony prominences before applying prewrap for skinned
protection. Use a removable self-adherent wrap starting distally at the fingers and spiraling
circumferentially upwards toward the forearm.
Next, reinforce with overlapping figure-8s spanning between the thenar and hypothenar
eminences for thumb and small finger stability. Ensure intact digital flexion by padding
between each finger.
Finish proximally by applying coban around the forearm for further immobilization while
allowing gentle wrist motion as healing allows. Pad all areas and check motion, sensation
and vascularity before and after application.
Monitor closely for skin compromise from circumferential immobilization and swelling.
Adjust wrappings to prevent further injury as needed.
Return Demonstration: The student correctly padded bony prominences before applying
smoothly overlapping layers from fingertips to forearm with gentle flexion preserved
between each digit. The self-adherent wrap was smoothly applied and reinforced with
figure-8s perfectly spanning thenar to hypothenar areas. Wrist and finger mobility,
sensation and circulation were appropriately checked before and after application meeting
technique standards. Wrapping was performed efficiently in under 15 minutes.
Discussion: Gaining experience stabilizing delicate hand and wrist injuries optimizes
immobilization for healing while allowing safe return to function. Continued practice
refines technique efficiency and individualized modifications meeting patient needs.
Section 5: Hamstring & Thigh Wrapping
Soft tissue injuries of the lower extremity require different stabilization strategies:
Demonstration: Clean and apply prewrap followed by non-elastic self-adherent wrap
starting at the distal thigh just proximal to the knee joint.
Overlap circular layers proximally in a flossing motion isolating the hamstring musculature
during the wrap. Pad behind the knee if intact.
Apply moderate initial tension avoiding excessive pressure distally which may affect
circulation. Monitor close contours and skin compromise as swelling fluctuates.
Re-wrap every 2-3 days during acute healing or as needed based on skin integrity, tension
or swelling changes. Adjust flossing patterns to accommodate specific injury sites.
Return Demonstration: The student applies overlapping concentric wraps smoothly from
knee to hip isolating the hamstrings with gentle but sufficient tensioning. The padding was
correctly placed and wrap smoothed around contours without excessive pressure
proximally or distally. Rechecking for vascularity, sensation and skin compromise was also
appropriately demonstrated meeting proficiency standards.
Discussion: Practicing lower extremity wrapping aids developing judgment to individualize
rigidity levels meeting rehab needs. Refining craft optimizes tissue protection and joint
stability promoting quick returns.
Section 6: Advanced Ankle Bracing
Let’s review options for more serious ankle instability:
Demonstration: For moderate ankle sprains with ligament laxity, reinforce standard ankle
taping with a figure-8 tape brace circumferentially wrapping immediately above and below
the malleoli. Apply rigidity with multiple passes.
For severe injuries, also incorporate an air stirrup brace underneath the tape brace.
Position the plantar shell component under the foot and secure the upright stirrup posts
lateral and medial to the malleoli. Inflate as indicated.
Custom ankle orthoses can provide integrated plastic semi-rigid shells and straps to
maximize immobilization during healing. Carefully measure, apply and adjust the fitting per
orthotist recommendations.
Re-evaluate rigidity as healing allows, substituting taping only once residual laxity resolves
with advanced progressive bracing.
Return Demonstration: The student accurately layers ankle taping applied with a figure-8
brace for added rigidity in a severe inversion sprain case study. Strategies for incorporating
additional air stirrup bracing or custom ankle-foot orthoses were also thoughtfully reviewed
meeting the objective.
Discussion: Understanding progressive bracing options optimizes outcomes for significant
ankle instability beyond basic taping alone. Referencing advanced resources aids clinical
decision making and injury management.
Section 7: Case Study Practice
Students will now have hands-on practice partnering to individually apply different taping
and wrapping techniques on each other covering injuries addressed in this course under
instructor guidance and feedback.
Case 1 – A collegiate lacrosse player sustains an ankle inversion sprain. Apply standard
ankle taping.
Assessment: Student correctly applies prewrap, heel/toe pads and the foundational ankle
taping technique—including plantarflexion strap, inferior stirrup taps and figure-8
components—to support the injured ankle. Tension is appropriate and all components are
smoothly applied meeting course standards.
Case 2 – A recreational runner experiences lateral knee pain on trails. Apply basic knee
sleeve bracing.
Assessment: The knee sleeve bracing is smoothly applied with proper tensioning centered
over the patella tendon providing good proprioceptive feedback without compromising
knee motion for this case. Application meets expectations.
Case 3 – A high school baseball pitcher has shoulder pain aggravating activity. Apply
supportive shoulder taping.
Assessment: The shoulder taping is correctly applied with rigid tape figure-8s and circular
reinforcements appropriately tensioned to compress the painful impingement point under
the acromion and stabilize the glenohumeral joint. Padding is correctly positioned and
taping smoothly applied per demonstration standards.
Conclusion
Thank you for the opportunity to practice and demonstrate important taping and wrapping
techniques. Developing proficiency in stabilizing techniques for common sports injuries
strengthens clinical skills and promotes best practices in injury management. Ongoing
practice applying varied techniques to mock patient case studies optimizes preparedness
to confidently Brace real-world acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions.
Introduction
As athletic trainers, we rely on taping and wrapping to provide support, immobilization, and
protection for injured athletes. These techniques allow athletes to continue competing and
training even when recovering from various musculoskeletal injuries. It is imperative that
we develop mastery over a variety of taping styles so that we can properly apply them in
clinical settings.
This hands-on assignment will provide opportunities to practice foundational taping and
wrapping methods. Through demonstrations, return demonstrations, and case studies,
students will develop competency in techniques for the ankle, knee, shoulder, wrist/hand
and other body regions. Emphasis will be placed on indications, contraindications,
materials and step-by-step application procedures. The goal is to leave feeling confident
applying evidenced-based taping techniques that optimize injury management.
Section 1: Ankle Taping
Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries seen in sports which puts clinical
competency in ankle taping at a premium. Let’s review proper procedures:
Demonstration: Apply prewrap and heel/toe pads to ensure skin protection and padding.
Use rigid athletic tape (1.5”-2”) starting proximally at the malleoli.
Start with a plantar flexion protective strap by wrapping under the foot and over the malleoli
3 times for added stability.
Next, apply inferior stirrup taps by wrapping around the forefoot behind the malleoli and
crossing under the arch to reinforce the lateral ligaments.
Follow with a figure-8 technique looping around the ankle laterally and medially for further
support of weak ligaments.
Finish with an external buttress component wrapping around the leg above the malleoli for
compression before trimming excess tape.
Check for proper tension, overlap, and skin protection before clearing the athlete to return
to activity appropriately braced. Reapply as needed, usually every 5-7 days.
Return Demonstration: Return demonstration reveals student has successfully mastered
the ankle taping procedure with correctly applied plantarflexion strap, stirrup taps, figure-8,
and external buttress components providing uniform compression across the ankle joint.
The taping technique was smoothly performed in under 10 minutes with no skin
compromise from the rigid tape.
Discussion: Routine ankle taping improves joint position sense and proprioception which
in turn decreases reinjury risk during rehabilitation. Developing craft with this common
injury prevents time lost for athletes in recovery. Ongoing practice ensures competency
with this fundamental taping method.
Section 2: Knee Bracing & Taping
The ACL in particular is vulnerable to reinjury, so protective knee bracing and taping
techniques for stabilizing collateral and cruciate ligaments are important clinical skills:
Demonstration: For an ACL injury in need of light bracing during rehab, apply a prewrap and
then a basic knee sleeve or band wrapped around the patella tendon. The compressive
sleeve provides proprioceptive feedback without limiting motion.
For more substantial knee instability, apply rigid tape (2”) starting superior to the patella by
wrapping circumferentially around the knee while applying medial and lateral tension for
stability. Reinforce this hinge taping with additional figure-8 passes around the joint line.
Bracing the collaterals further involves applying vertical medial and lateral heel locks
running from the knee to just below the tibial tubercle. Finish by firmly patting the tape and
checking for proper compression and skin protection.
As needed, reinforce existing bracing with athletic tape application focusing on specific
ligament deficiencies identified during knee exams. Monitor for proper fit, tension and skin
issues with bracing over time.
Return Demonstration: Student accurately performs knee taping utilizing the figure-8,
circumferential hinge and heel lock components with even tension across collateral and
cruciate ligament insertions on both sides of the knee. Proper technique was
demonstrated efficiently and without tape overhang or skin compromise.
Discussion: Developing proficiency with taping and bracing techniques for the vulnerable
knee protects healing tissues and progression during rehab. Ongoing practice ensures best
outcomes when stabilizing knee injuries are case specific. Improving efficiency also
optimizes treatment.
Section 3: Shoulder Stabilization
Subacromial impingement and instability are frequent shoulder issues requiring protective
taping:
Demonstration: Begin by applying prewrap and circular shoulder pads placed below and
medial to the acromion. Use rigid tape (1.5”) starting high on the upper arm posteriorly.
Apply figure-of-8 circles around the scapula crossing the medial border to provide
compression medially for impingement symptoms.
Then reinforce with circular passes spiraling down around the humerus providing stability
to the glenohumeral joint.
Finish with a posterior sling crossing the tapes behind the shoulder from back to front
adding further compression to the anterior capsule.
Recheck tension and ensure padding prior to clearing the athlete. Re-tape every 5-7 days or
as skin compromise occurs.
Return Demonstration: The student successfully applies shoulder taping with appropriate
tensioning of figure-8 and circular components to compress the impingement point and
stabilize the glenohumeral joint. Padding is correctly placed and prewrap applied smoothly
without wrinkles or compression of vasculature. Proper taping was performed efficiently.
Discussion: Continued practice applying supportive yet restrictive shoulder taping
methods strengthens skills in managing common shoulder injuries. Refining efficiency
optimizes treatment outcomes through repeat reliable applications meeting individual
patient needs.
Section 4: Wrist & Hand Immobilization
The ultra-mobile wrist and hand require special consideration when stabilizing fractures
and soft tissue injuries:
Demonstration: Clean and pad any bony prominences before applying prewrap for skinned
protection. Use a removable self-adherent wrap starting distally at the fingers and spiraling
circumferentially upwards toward the forearm.
Next, reinforce with overlapping figure-8s spanning between the thenar and hypothenar
eminences for thumb and small finger stability. Ensure intact digital flexion by padding
between each finger.
Finish proximally by applying coban around the forearm for further immobilization while
allowing gentle wrist motion as healing allows. Pad all areas and check motion, sensation
and vascularity before and after application.
Monitor closely for skin compromise from circumferential immobilization and swelling.
Adjust wrappings to prevent further injury as needed.
Return Demonstration: The student correctly padded bony prominences before applying
smoothly overlapping layers from fingertips to forearm with gentle flexion preserved
between each digit. The self-adherent wrap was smoothly applied and reinforced with
figure-8s perfectly spanning thenar to hypothenar areas. Wrist and finger mobility,
sensation and circulation were appropriately checked before and after application meeting
technique standards. Wrapping was performed efficiently in under 15 minutes.
Discussion: Gaining experience stabilizing delicate hand and wrist injuries optimizes
immobilization for healing while allowing safe return to function. Continued practice
refines technique efficiency and individualized modifications meeting patient needs.
Section 5: Hamstring & Thigh Wrapping
Soft tissue injuries of the lower extremity require different stabilization strategies:
Demonstration: Clean and apply prewrap followed by non-elastic self-adherent wrap
starting at the distal thigh just proximal to the knee joint.
Overlap circular layers proximally in a flossing motion isolating the hamstring musculature
during the wrap. Pad behind the knee if intact.
Apply moderate initial tension avoiding excessive pressure distally which may affect
circulation. Monitor close contours and skin compromise as swelling fluctuates.
Re-wrap every 2-3 days during acute healing or as needed based on skin integrity, tension
or swelling changes. Adjust flossing patterns to accommodate specific injury sites.
Return Demonstration: The student applies overlapping concentric wraps smoothly from
knee to hip isolating the hamstrings with gentle but sufficient tensioning. The padding was
correctly placed and wrap smoothed around contours without excessive pressure
proximally or distally. Rechecking for vascularity, sensation and skin compromise was also
appropriately demonstrated meeting proficiency standards.
Discussion: Practicing lower extremity wrapping aids developing judgment to individualize
rigidity levels meeting rehab needs. Refining craft optimizes tissue protection and joint
stability promoting quick returns.
Section 6: Advanced Ankle Bracing
Let’s review options for more serious ankle instability:
Demonstration: For moderate ankle sprains with ligament laxity, reinforce standard ankle
taping with a figure-8 tape brace circumferentially wrapping immediately above and below
the malleoli. Apply rigidity with multiple passes.
For severe injuries, also incorporate an air stirrup brace underneath the tape brace.
Position the plantar shell component under the foot and secure the upright stirrup posts
lateral and medial to the malleoli. Inflate as indicated.
Custom ankle orthoses can provide integrated plastic semi-rigid shells and straps to
maximize immobilization during healing. Carefully measure, apply and adjust the fitting per
orthotist recommendations.
Re-evaluate rigidity as healing allows, substituting taping only once residual laxity resolves
with advanced progressive bracing.
Return Demonstration: The student accurately layers ankle taping applied with a figure-8
brace for added rigidity in a severe inversion sprain case study. Strategies for incorporating
additional air stirrup bracing or custom ankle-foot orthoses were also thoughtfully reviewed
meeting the objective.
Discussion: Understanding progressive bracing options optimizes outcomes for significant
ankle instability beyond basic taping alone. Referencing advanced resources aids clinical
decision making and injury management.
Section 7: Case Study Practice
Students will now have hands-on practice partnering to individually apply different taping
and wrapping techniques on each other covering injuries addressed in this course under
instructor guidance and feedback.
Case 1 – A collegiate lacrosse player sustains an ankle inversion sprain. Apply standard
ankle taping.
Assessment: Student correctly applies prewrap, heel/toe pads and the foundational ankle
taping technique—including plantarflexion strap, inferior stirrup taps and figure-8
components—to support the injured ankle. Tension is appropriate and all components are
smoothly applied meeting course standards.
Case 2 – A recreational runner experiences lateral knee pain on trails. Apply basic knee
sleeve bracing.
Assessment: The knee sleeve bracing is smoothly applied with proper tensioning centered
over the patella tendon providing good proprioceptive feedback without compromising
knee motion for this case. Application meets expectations.
Case 3 – A high school baseball pitcher has shoulder pain aggravating activity. Apply
supportive shoulder taping.
Assessment: The shoulder taping is correctly applied with rigid tape figure-8s and circular
reinforcements appropriately tensioned to compress the painful impingement point under
the acromion and stabilize the glenohumeral joint. Padding is correctly positioned and
taping smoothly applied per demonstration standards.
Conclusion
Thank you for the opportunity to practice and demonstrate important taping and wrapping
techniques. Developing proficiency in stabilizing techniques for common sports injuries
strengthens clinical skills and promotes best practices in injury management. Ongoing
practice applying varied techniques to mock patient case studies optimizes preparedness
to confidently Brace real-world acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions.
Introduction
As athletic trainers, we rely on taping and wrapping to provide support, immobilization, and
protection for injured athletes. These techniques allow athletes to continue competing and
training even when recovering from various musculoskeletal injuries. It is imperative that
we develop mastery over a variety of taping styles so that we can properly apply them in
clinical settings.
This hands-on assignment will provide opportunities to practice foundational taping and
wrapping methods. Through demonstrations, return demonstrations, and case studies,
students will develop competency in techniques for the ankle, knee, shoulder, wrist/hand
and other body regions. Emphasis will be placed on indications, contraindications,
materials and step-by-step application procedures. The goal is to leave feeling confident
applying evidenced-based taping techniques that optimize injury management.
Section 1: Ankle Taping
Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries seen in sports which puts clinical
competency in ankle taping at a premium. Let’s review proper procedures:
Demonstration: Apply prewrap and heel/toe pads to ensure skin protection and padding.
Use rigid athletic tape (1.5”-2”) starting proximally at the malleoli.
Start with a plantar flexion protective strap by wrapping under the foot and over the malleoli
3 times for added stability.
Next, apply inferior stirrup taps by wrapping around the forefoot behind the malleoli and
crossing under the arch to reinforce the lateral ligaments.
Follow with a figure-8 technique looping around the ankle laterally and medially for further
support of weak ligaments.
Finish with an external buttress component wrapping around the leg above the malleoli for
compression before trimming excess tape.
Check for proper tension, overlap, and skin protection before clearing the athlete to return
to activity appropriately braced. Reapply as needed, usually every 5-7 days.
Return Demonstration: Return demonstration reveals student has successfully mastered
the ankle taping procedure with correctly applied plantarflexion strap, stirrup taps, figure-8,
and external buttress components providing uniform compression across the ankle joint.
The taping technique was smoothly performed in under 10 minutes with no skin
compromise from the rigid tape.
Discussion: Routine ankle taping improves joint position sense and proprioception which
in turn decreases reinjury risk during rehabilitation. Developing craft with this common
injury prevents time lost for athletes in recovery. Ongoing practice ensures competency
with this fundamental taping method.
Section 2: Knee Bracing & Taping
The ACL in particular is vulnerable to reinjury, so protective knee bracing and taping
techniques for stabilizing collateral and cruciate ligaments are important clinical skills:
Demonstration: For an ACL injury in need of light bracing during rehab, apply a prewrap and
then a basic knee sleeve or band wrapped around the patella tendon. The compressive
sleeve provides proprioceptive feedback without limiting motion.
For more substantial knee instability, apply rigid tape (2”) starting superior to the patella by
wrapping circumferentially around the knee while applying medial and lateral tension for
stability. Reinforce this hinge taping with additional figure-8 passes around the joint line.
Bracing the collaterals further involves applying vertical medial and lateral heel locks
running from the knee to just below the tibial tubercle. Finish by firmly patting the tape and
checking for proper compression and skin protection.
As needed, reinforce existing bracing with athletic tape application focusing on specific
ligament deficiencies identified during knee exams. Monitor for proper fit, tension and skin
issues with bracing over time.
Return Demonstration: Student accurately performs knee taping utilizing the figure-8,
circumferential hinge and heel lock components with even tension across collateral and
cruciate ligament insertions on both sides of the knee. Proper technique was
demonstrated efficiently and without tape overhang or skin compromise.
Discussion: Developing proficiency with taping and bracing techniques for the vulnerable
knee protects healing tissues and progression during rehab. Ongoing practice ensures best
outcomes when stabilizing knee injuries are case specific. Improving efficiency also
optimizes treatment.
Section 3: Shoulder Stabilization
Subacromial impingement and instability are frequent shoulder issues requiring protective
taping:
Demonstration: Begin by applying prewrap and circular shoulder pads placed below and
medial to the acromion. Use rigid tape (1.5”) starting high on the upper arm posteriorly.
Apply figure-of-8 circles around the scapula crossing the medial border to provide
compression medially for impingement symptoms.
Then reinforce with circular passes spiraling down around the humerus providing stability
to the glenohumeral joint.
Finish with a posterior sling crossing the tapes behind the shoulder from back to front
adding further compression to the anterior capsule.
Recheck tension and ensure padding prior to clearing the athlete. Re-tape every 5-7 days or
as skin compromise occurs.
Return Demonstration: The student successfully applies shoulder taping with appropriate
tensioning of figure-8 and circular components to compress the impingement point and
stabilize the glenohumeral joint. Padding is correctly placed and prewrap applied smoothly
without wrinkles or compression of vasculature. Proper taping was performed efficiently.
Discussion: Continued practice applying supportive yet restrictive shoulder taping
methods strengthens skills in managing common shoulder injuries. Refining efficiency
optimizes treatment outcomes through repeat reliable applications meeting individual
patient needs.
Section 4: Wrist & Hand Immobilization
The ultra-mobile wrist and hand require special consideration when stabilizing fractures
and soft tissue injuries:
Demonstration: Clean and pad any bony prominences before applying prewrap for skinned
protection. Use a removable self-adherent wrap starting distally at the fingers and spiraling
circumferentially upwards toward the forearm.
Next, reinforce with overlapping figure-8s spanning between the thenar and hypothenar
eminences for thumb and small finger stability. Ensure intact digital flexion by padding
between each finger.
Finish proximally by applying coban around the forearm for further immobilization while
allowing gentle wrist motion as healing allows. Pad all areas and check motion, sensation
and vascularity before and after application.
Monitor closely for skin compromise from circumferential immobilization and swelling.
Adjust wrappings to prevent further injury as needed.
Return Demonstration: The student correctly padded bony prominences before applying
smoothly overlapping layers from fingertips to forearm with gentle flexion preserved
between each digit. The self-adherent wrap was smoothly applied and reinforced with
figure-8s perfectly spanning thenar to hypothenar areas. Wrist and finger mobility,
sensation and circulation were appropriately checked before and after application meeting
technique standards. Wrapping was performed efficiently in under 15 minutes.
Discussion: Gaining experience stabilizing delicate hand and wrist injuries optimizes
immobilization for healing while allowing safe return to function. Continued practice
refines technique efficiency and individualized modifications meeting patient needs.
Section 5: Hamstring & Thigh Wrapping
Soft tissue injuries of the lower extremity require different stabilization strategies:
Demonstration: Clean and apply prewrap followed by non-elastic self-adherent wrap
starting at the distal thigh just proximal to the knee joint.
Overlap circular layers proximally in a flossing motion isolating the hamstring musculature
during the wrap. Pad behind the knee if intact.
Apply moderate initial tension avoiding excessive pressure distally which may affect
circulation. Monitor close contours and skin compromise as swelling fluctuates.
Re-wrap every 2-3 days during acute healing or as needed based on skin integrity, tension
or swelling changes. Adjust flossing patterns to accommodate specific injury sites.
Return Demonstration: The student applies overlapping concentric wraps smoothly from
knee to hip isolating the hamstrings with gentle but sufficient tensioning. The padding was
correctly placed and wrap smoothed around contours without excessive pressure
proximally or distally. Rechecking for vascularity, sensation and skin compromise was also
appropriately demonstrated meeting proficiency standards.
Discussion: Practicing lower extremity wrapping aids developing judgment to individualize
rigidity levels meeting rehab needs. Refining craft optimizes tissue protection and joint
stability promoting quick returns.
Section 6: Advanced Ankle Bracing
Let’s review options for more serious ankle instability:
Demonstration: For moderate ankle sprains with ligament laxity, reinforce standard ankle
taping with a figure-8 tape brace circumferentially wrapping immediately above and below
the malleoli. Apply rigidity with multiple passes.
For severe injuries, also incorporate an air stirrup brace underneath the tape brace.
Position the plantar shell component under the foot and secure the upright stirrup posts
lateral and medial to the malleoli. Inflate as indicated.
Custom ankle orthoses can provide integrated plastic semi-rigid shells and straps to
maximize immobilization during healing. Carefully measure, apply and adjust the fitting per
orthotist recommendations.
Re-evaluate rigidity as healing allows, substituting taping only once residual laxity resolves
with advanced progressive bracing.
Return Demonstration: The student accurately layers ankle taping applied with a figure-8
brace for added rigidity in a severe inversion sprain case study. Strategies for incorporating
additional air stirrup bracing or custom ankle-foot orthoses were also thoughtfully reviewed
meeting the objective.
Discussion: Understanding progressive bracing options optimizes outcomes for significant
ankle instability beyond basic taping alone. Referencing advanced resources aids clinical
decision making and injury management.
Section 7: Case Study Practice
Students will now have hands-on practice partnering to individually apply different taping
and wrapping techniques on each other covering injuries addressed in this course under
instructor guidance and feedback.
Case 1 – A collegiate lacrosse player sustains an ankle inversion sprain. Apply standard
ankle taping.
Assessment: Student correctly applies prewrap, heel/toe pads and the foundational ankle
taping technique—including plantarflexion strap, inferior stirrup taps and figure-8
components—to support the injured ankle. Tension is appropriate and all components are
smoothly applied meeting course standards.
Case 2 – A recreational runner experiences lateral knee pain on trails. Apply basic knee
sleeve bracing.
Assessment: The knee sleeve bracing is smoothly applied with proper tensioning centered
over the patella tendon providing good proprioceptive feedback without compromising
knee motion for this case. Application meets expectations.
Case 3 – A high school baseball pitcher has shoulder pain aggravating activity. Apply
supportive shoulder taping.
Assessment: The shoulder taping is correctly applied with rigid tape figure-8s and circular
reinforcements appropriately tensioned to compress the painful impingement point under
the acromion and stabilize the glenohumeral joint. Padding is correctly positioned and
taping smoothly applied per demonstration standards.
Conclusion
Thank you for the opportunity to practice and demonstrate important taping and wrapping
techniques. Developing proficiency in stabilizing techniques for common sports injuries
strengthens clinical skills and promotes best practices in injury management. Ongoing
practice applying varied techniques to mock patient case studies optimizes preparedness
to confidently Brace real-world acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions.
Introduction
As athletic trainers, we rely on taping and wrapping to provide support, immobilization, and
protection for injured athletes. These techniques allow athletes to continue competing and
training even when recovering from various musculoskeletal injuries. It is imperative that
we develop mastery over a variety of taping styles so that we can properly apply them in
clinical settings.
This hands-on assignment will provide opportunities to practice foundational taping and
wrapping methods. Through demonstrations, return demonstrations, and case studies,
students will develop competency in techniques for the ankle, knee, shoulder, wrist/hand
and other body regions. Emphasis will be placed on indications, contraindications,
materials and step-by-step application procedures. The goal is to leave feeling confident
applying evidenced-based taping techniques that optimize injury management.
Section 1: Ankle Taping
Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries seen in sports which puts clinical
competency in ankle taping at a premium. Let’s review proper procedures:
Demonstration: Apply prewrap and heel/toe pads to ensure skin protection and padding.
Use rigid athletic tape (1.5”-2”) starting proximally at the malleoli.
Start with a plantar flexion protective strap by wrapping under the foot and over the malleoli
3 times for added stability.
Next, apply inferior stirrup taps by wrapping around the forefoot behind the malleoli and
crossing under the arch to reinforce the lateral ligaments.
Follow with a figure-8 technique looping around the ankle laterally and medially for further
support of weak ligaments.
Finish with an external buttress component wrapping around the leg above the malleoli for
compression before trimming excess tape.
Check for proper tension, overlap, and skin protection before clearing the athlete to return
to activity appropriately braced. Reapply as needed, usually every 5-7 days.
Return Demonstration: Return demonstration reveals student has successfully mastered
the ankle taping procedure with correctly applied plantarflexion strap, stirrup taps, figure-8,
and external buttress components providing uniform compression across the ankle joint.
The taping technique was smoothly performed in under 10 minutes with no skin
compromise from the rigid tape.
Discussion: Routine ankle taping improves joint position sense and proprioception which
in turn decreases reinjury risk during rehabilitation. Developing craft with this common
injury prevents time lost for athletes in recovery. Ongoing practice ensures competency
with this fundamental taping method.
Section 2: Knee Bracing & Taping
The ACL in particular is vulnerable to reinjury, so protective knee bracing and taping
techniques for stabilizing collateral and cruciate ligaments are important clinical skills:
Demonstration: For an ACL injury in need of light bracing during rehab, apply a prewrap and
then a basic knee sleeve or band wrapped around the patella tendon. The compressive
sleeve provides proprioceptive feedback without limiting motion.
For more substantial knee instability, apply rigid tape (2”) starting superior to the patella by
wrapping circumferentially around the knee while applying medial and lateral tension for
stability. Reinforce this hinge taping with additional figure-8 passes around the joint line.
Bracing the collaterals further involves applying vertical medial and lateral heel locks
running from the knee to just below the tibial tubercle. Finish by firmly patting the tape and
checking for proper compression and skin protection.
As needed, reinforce existing bracing with athletic tape application focusing on specific
ligament deficiencies identified during knee exams. Monitor for proper fit, tension and skin
issues with bracing over time.
Return Demonstration: Student accurately performs knee taping utilizing the figure-8,
circumferential hinge and heel lock components with even tension across collateral and
cruciate ligament insertions on both sides of the knee. Proper technique was
demonstrated efficiently and without tape overhang or skin compromise.
Discussion: Developing proficiency with taping and bracing techniques for the vulnerable
knee protects healing tissues and progression during rehab. Ongoing practice ensures best
outcomes when stabilizing knee injuries are case specific. Improving efficiency also
optimizes treatment.
Section 3: Shoulder Stabilization
Subacromial impingement and instability are frequent shoulder issues requiring protective
taping:
Demonstration: Begin by applying prewrap and circular shoulder pads placed below and
medial to the acromion. Use rigid tape (1.5”) starting high on the upper arm posteriorly.
Apply figure-of-8 circles around the scapula crossing the medial border to provide
compression medially for impingement symptoms.
Then reinforce with circular passes spiraling down around the humerus providing stability
to the glenohumeral joint.
Finish with a posterior sling crossing the tapes behind the shoulder from back to front
adding further compression to the anterior capsule.
Recheck tension and ensure padding prior to clearing the athlete. Re-tape every 5-7 days or
as skin compromise occurs.
Return Demonstration: The student successfully applies shoulder taping with appropriate
tensioning of figure-8 and circular components to compress the impingement point and
stabilize the glenohumeral joint. Padding is correctly placed and prewrap applied smoothly
without wrinkles or compression of vasculature. Proper taping was performed efficiently.
Discussion: Continued practice applying supportive yet restrictive shoulder taping
methods strengthens skills in managing common shoulder injuries. Refining efficiency
optimizes treatment outcomes through repeat reliable applications meeting individual
patient needs.
Section 4: Wrist & Hand Immobilization
The ultra-mobile wrist and hand require special consideration when stabilizing fractures
and soft tissue injuries:
Demonstration: Clean and pad any bony prominences before applying prewrap for skinned
protection. Use a removable self-adherent wrap starting distally at the fingers and spiraling
circumferentially upwards toward the forearm.
Next, reinforce with overlapping figure-8s spanning between the thenar and hypothenar
eminences for thumb and small finger stability. Ensure intact digital flexion by padding
between each finger.
Finish proximally by applying coban around the forearm for further immobilization while
allowing gentle wrist motion as healing allows. Pad all areas and check motion, sensation
and vascularity before and after application.
Monitor closely for skin compromise from circumferential immobilization and swelling.
Adjust wrappings to prevent further injury as needed.
Return Demonstration: The student correctly padded bony prominences before applying
smoothly overlapping layers from fingertips to forearm with gentle flexion preserved
between each digit. The self-adherent wrap was smoothly applied and reinforced with
figure-8s perfectly spanning thenar to hypothenar areas. Wrist and finger mobility,
sensation and circulation were appropriately checked before and after application meeting
technique standards. Wrapping was performed efficiently in under 15 minutes.
Discussion: Gaining experience stabilizing delicate hand and wrist injuries optimizes
immobilization for healing while allowing safe return to function. Continued practice
refines technique efficiency and individualized modifications meeting patient needs.
Section 5: Hamstring & Thigh Wrapping
Soft tissue injuries of the lower extremity require different stabilization strategies:
Demonstration: Clean and apply prewrap followed by non-elastic self-adherent wrap
starting at the distal thigh just proximal to the knee joint.
Overlap circular layers proximally in a flossing motion isolating the hamstring musculature
during the wrap. Pad behind the knee if intact.
Apply moderate initial tension avoiding excessive pressure distally which may affect
circulation. Monitor close contours and skin compromise as swelling fluctuates.
Re-wrap every 2-3 days during acute healing or as needed based on skin integrity, tension
or swelling changes. Adjust flossing patterns to accommodate specific injury sites.
Return Demonstration: The student applies overlapping concentric wraps smoothly from
knee to hip isolating the hamstrings with gentle but sufficient tensioning. The padding was
correctly placed and wrap smoothed around contours without excessive pressure
proximally or distally. Rechecking for vascularity, sensation and skin compromise was also
appropriately demonstrated meeting proficiency standards.
Discussion: Practicing lower extremity wrapping aids developing judgment to individualize
rigidity levels meeting rehab needs. Refining craft optimizes tissue protection and joint
stability promoting quick returns.
Section 6: Advanced Ankle Bracing
Let’s review options for more serious ankle instability:
Demonstration: For moderate ankle sprains with ligament laxity, reinforce standard ankle
taping with a figure-8 tape brace circumferentially wrapping immediately above and below
the malleoli. Apply rigidity with multiple passes.
For severe injuries, also incorporate an air stirrup brace underneath the tape brace.
Position the plantar shell component under the foot and secure the upright stirrup posts
lateral and medial to the malleoli. Inflate as indicated.
Custom ankle orthoses can provide integrated plastic semi-rigid shells and straps to
maximize immobilization during healing. Carefully measure, apply and adjust the fitting per
orthotist recommendations.
Re-evaluate rigidity as healing allows, substituting taping only once residual laxity resolves
with advanced progressive bracing.
Return Demonstration: The student accurately layers ankle taping applied with a figure-8
brace for added rigidity in a severe inversion sprain case study. Strategies for incorporating
additional air stirrup bracing or custom ankle-foot orthoses were also thoughtfully reviewed
meeting the objective.
Discussion: Understanding progressive bracing options optimizes outcomes for significant
ankle instability beyond basic taping alone. Referencing advanced resources aids clinical
decision making and injury management.
Section 7: Case Study Practice
Students will now have hands-on practice partnering to individually apply different taping
and wrapping techniques on each other covering injuries addressed in this course under
instructor guidance and feedback.
Case 1 – A collegiate lacrosse player sustains an ankle inversion sprain. Apply standard
ankle taping.
Assessment: Student correctly applies prewrap, heel/toe pads and the foundational ankle
taping technique—including plantarflexion strap, inferior stirrup taps and figure-8
components—to support the injured ankle. Tension is appropriate and all components are
smoothly applied meeting course standards.
Case 2 – A recreational runner experiences lateral knee pain on trails. Apply basic knee
sleeve bracing.
Assessment: The knee sleeve bracing is smoothly applied with proper tensioning centered
over the patella tendon providing good proprioceptive feedback without compromising
knee motion for this case. Application meets expectations.
Case 3 – A high school baseball pitcher has shoulder pain aggravating activity. Apply
supportive shoulder taping.
Assessment: The shoulder taping is correctly applied with rigid tape figure-8s and circular
reinforcements appropriately tensioned to compress the painful impingement point under
the acromion and stabilize the glenohumeral joint. Padding is correctly positioned and
taping smoothly applied per demonstration standards.
Conclusion
Thank you for the opportunity to practice and demonstrate important taping and wrapping
techniques. Developing proficiency in stabilizing techniques for common sports injuries
strengthens clinical skills and promotes best practices in injury management. Ongoing
practice applying varied techniques to mock patient case studies optimizes preparedness
to confidently Brace real-world acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions.
Introduction
As athletic trainers, we rely on taping and wrapping to provide support, immobilization, and
protection for injured athletes. These techniques allow athletes to continue competing and
training even when recovering from various musculoskeletal injuries. It is imperative that
we develop mastery over a variety of taping styles so that we can properly apply them in
clinical settings.
This hands-on assignment will provide opportunities to practice foundational taping and
wrapping methods. Through demonstrations, return demonstrations, and case studies,
students will develop competency in techniques for the ankle, knee, shoulder, wrist/hand
and other body regions. Emphasis will be placed on indications, contraindications,
materials and step-by-step application procedures. The goal is to leave feeling confident
applying evidenced-based taping techniques that optimize injury management.
Section 1: Ankle Taping
Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries seen in sports which puts clinical
competency in ankle taping at a premium. Let’s review proper procedures:
Demonstration: Apply prewrap and heel/toe pads to ensure skin protection and padding.
Use rigid athletic tape (1.5”-2”) starting proximally at the malleoli.
Start with a plantar flexion protective strap by wrapping under the foot and over the malleoli
3 times for added stability.
Next, apply inferior stirrup taps by wrapping around the forefoot behind the malleoli and
crossing under the arch to reinforce the lateral ligaments.
Follow with a figure-8 technique looping around the ankle laterally and medially for further
support of weak ligaments.
Finish with an external buttress component wrapping around the leg above the malleoli for
compression before trimming excess tape.
Check for proper tension, overlap, and skin protection before clearing the athlete to return
to activity appropriately braced. Reapply as needed, usually every 5-7 days.
Return Demonstration: Return demonstration reveals student has successfully mastered
the ankle taping procedure with correctly applied plantarflexion strap, stirrup taps, figure-8,
and external buttress components providing uniform compression across the ankle joint.
The taping technique was smoothly performed in under 10 minutes with no skin
compromise from the rigid tape.
Discussion: Routine ankle taping improves joint position sense and proprioception which
in turn decreases reinjury risk during rehabilitation. Developing craft with this common
injury prevents time lost for athletes in recovery. Ongoing practice ensures competency
with this fundamental taping method.
Section 2: Knee Bracing & Taping
The ACL in particular is vulnerable to reinjury, so protective knee bracing and taping
techniques for stabilizing collateral and cruciate ligaments are important clinical skills:
Demonstration: For an ACL injury in need of light bracing during rehab, apply a prewrap and
then a basic knee sleeve or band wrapped around the patella tendon. The compressive
sleeve provides proprioceptive feedback without limiting motion.
For more substantial knee instability, apply rigid tape (2”) starting superior to the patella by
wrapping circumferentially around the knee while applying medial and lateral tension for
stability. Reinforce this hinge taping with additional figure-8 passes around the joint line.
Bracing the collaterals further involves applying vertical medial and lateral heel locks
running from the knee to just below the tibial tubercle. Finish by firmly patting the tape and
checking for proper compression and skin protection.
As needed, reinforce existing bracing with athletic tape application focusing on specific
ligament deficiencies identified during knee exams. Monitor for proper fit, tension and skin
issues with bracing over time.
Return Demonstration: Student accurately performs knee taping utilizing the figure-8,
circumferential hinge and heel lock components with even tension across collateral and
cruciate ligament insertions on both sides of the knee. Proper technique was
demonstrated efficiently and without tape overhang or skin compromise.
Discussion: Developing proficiency with taping and bracing techniques for the vulnerable
knee protects healing tissues and progression during rehab. Ongoing practice ensures best
outcomes when stabilizing knee injuries are case specific. Improving efficiency also
optimizes treatment.
Section 3: Shoulder Stabilization
Subacromial impingement and instability are frequent shoulder issues requiring protective
taping:
Demonstration: Begin by applying prewrap and circular shoulder pads placed below and
medial to the acromion. Use rigid tape (1.5”) starting high on the upper arm posteriorly.
Apply figure-of-8 circles around the scapula crossing the medial border to provide
compression medially for impingement symptoms.
Then reinforce with circular passes spiraling down around the humerus providing stability
to the glenohumeral joint.
Finish with a posterior sling crossing the tapes behind the shoulder from back to front
adding further compression to the anterior capsule.
Recheck tension and ensure padding prior to clearing the athlete. Re-tape every 5-7 days or
as skin compromise occurs.
Return Demonstration: The student successfully applies shoulder taping with appropriate
tensioning of figure-8 and circular components to compress the impingement point and
stabilize the glenohumeral joint. Padding is correctly placed and prewrap applied smoothly
without wrinkles or compression of vasculature. Proper taping was performed efficiently.
Discussion: Continued practice applying supportive yet restrictive shoulder taping
methods strengthens skills in managing common shoulder injuries. Refining efficiency
optimizes treatment outcomes through repeat reliable applications meeting individual
patient needs.
Section 4: Wrist & Hand Immobilization
The ultra-mobile wrist and hand require special consideration when stabilizing fractures
and soft tissue injuries:
Demonstration: Clean and pad any bony prominences before applying prewrap for skinned
protection. Use a removable self-adherent wrap starting distally at the fingers and spiraling
circumferentially upwards toward the forearm.
Next, reinforce with overlapping figure-8s spanning between the thenar and hypothenar
eminences for thumb and small finger stability. Ensure intact digital flexion by padding
between each finger.
Finish proximally by applying coban around the forearm for further immobilization while
allowing gentle wrist motion as healing allows. Pad all areas and check motion, sensation
and vascularity before and after application.
Monitor closely for skin compromise from circumferential immobilization and swelling.
Adjust wrappings to prevent further injury as needed.
Return Demonstration: The student correctly padded bony prominences before applying
smoothly overlapping layers from fingertips to forearm with gentle flexion preserved
between each digit. The self-adherent wrap was smoothly applied and reinforced with
figure-8s perfectly spanning thenar to hypothenar areas. Wrist and finger mobility,
sensation and circulation were appropriately checked before and after application meeting
technique standards. Wrapping was performed efficiently in under 15 minutes.
Discussion: Gaining experience stabilizing delicate hand and wrist injuries optimizes
immobilization for healing while allowing safe return to function. Continued practice
refines technique efficiency and individualized modifications meeting patient needs.
Section 5: Hamstring & Thigh Wrapping
Soft tissue injuries of the lower extremity require different stabilization strategies:
Demonstration: Clean and apply prewrap followed by non-elastic self-adherent wrap
starting at the distal thigh just proximal to the knee joint.
Overlap circular layers proximally in a flossing motion isolating the hamstring musculature
during the wrap. Pad behind the knee if intact.
Apply moderate initial tension avoiding excessive pressure distally which may affect
circulation. Monitor close contours and skin compromise as swelling fluctuates.
Re-wrap every 2-3 days during acute healing or as needed based on skin integrity, tension
or swelling changes. Adjust flossing patterns to accommodate specific injury sites.
Return Demonstration: The student applies overlapping concentric wraps smoothly from
knee to hip isolating the hamstrings with gentle but sufficient tensioning. The padding was
correctly placed and wrap smoothed around contours without excessive pressure
proximally or distally. Rechecking for vascularity, sensation and skin compromise was also
appropriately demonstrated meeting proficiency standards.
Discussion: Practicing lower extremity wrapping aids developing judgment to individualize
rigidity levels meeting rehab needs. Refining craft optimizes tissue protection and joint
stability promoting quick returns.
Section 6: Advanced Ankle Bracing
Let’s review options for more serious ankle instability:
Demonstration: For moderate ankle sprains with ligament laxity, reinforce standard ankle
taping with a figure-8 tape brace circumferentially wrapping immediately above and below
the malleoli. Apply rigidity with multiple passes.
For severe injuries, also incorporate an air stirrup brace underneath the tape brace.
Position the plantar shell component under the foot and secure the upright stirrup posts
lateral and medial to the malleoli. Inflate as indicated.
Custom ankle orthoses can provide integrated plastic semi-rigid shells and straps to
maximize immobilization during healing. Carefully measure, apply and adjust the fitting per
orthotist recommendations.
Re-evaluate rigidity as healing allows, substituting taping only once residual laxity resolves
with advanced progressive bracing.
Return Demonstration: The student accurately layers ankle taping applied with a figure-8
brace for added rigidity in a severe inversion sprain case study. Strategies for incorporating
additional air stirrup bracing or custom ankle-foot orthoses were also thoughtfully reviewed
meeting the objective.
Discussion: Understanding progressive bracing options optimizes outcomes for significant
ankle instability beyond basic taping alone. Referencing advanced resources aids clinical
decision making and injury management.
Section 7: Case Study Practice
Students will now have hands-on practice partnering to individually apply different taping
and wrapping techniques on each other covering injuries addressed in this course under
instructor guidance and feedback.
Case 1 – A collegiate lacrosse player sustains an ankle inversion sprain. Apply standard
ankle taping.
Assessment: Student correctly applies prewrap, heel/toe pads and the foundational ankle
taping technique—including plantarflexion strap, inferior stirrup taps and figure-8
components—to support the injured ankle. Tension is appropriate and all components are
smoothly applied meeting course standards.
Case 2 – A recreational runner experiences lateral knee pain on trails. Apply basic knee
sleeve bracing.
Assessment: The knee sleeve bracing is smoothly applied with proper tensioning centered
over the patella tendon providing good proprioceptive feedback without compromising
knee motion for this case. Application meets expectations.
Case 3 – A high school baseball pitcher has shoulder pain aggravating activity. Apply
supportive shoulder taping.
Assessment: The shoulder taping is correctly applied with rigid tape figure-8s and circular
reinforcements appropriately tensioned to compress the painful impingement point under
the acromion and stabilize the glenohumeral joint. Padding is correctly positioned and
taping smoothly applied per demonstration standards.
Conclusion
Thank you for the opportunity to practice and demonstrate important taping and wrapping
techniques. Developing proficiency in stabilizing techniques for common sports injuries
strengthens clinical skills and promotes best practices in injury management. Ongoing
practice applying varied techniques to mock patient case studies optimizes preparedness
to confidently Brace real-world acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions.
Introduction
As athletic trainers, we rely on taping and wrapping to provide support, immobilization, and
protection for injured athletes. These techniques allow athletes to continue competing and
training even when recovering from various musculoskeletal injuries. It is imperative that
we develop mastery over a variety of taping styles so that we can properly apply them in
clinical settings.
This hands-on assignment will provide opportunities to practice foundational taping and
wrapping methods. Through demonstrations, return demonstrations, and case studies,
students will develop competency in techniques for the ankle, knee, shoulder, wrist/hand
and other body regions. Emphasis will be placed on indications, contraindications,
materials and step-by-step application procedures. The goal is to leave feeling confident
applying evidenced-based taping techniques that optimize injury management.
Section 1: Ankle Taping
Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries seen in sports which puts clinical
competency in ankle taping at a premium. Let’s review proper procedures:
Demonstration: Apply prewrap and heel/toe pads to ensure skin protection and padding.
Use rigid athletic tape (1.5”-2”) starting proximally at the malleoli.
Start with a plantar flexion protective strap by wrapping under the foot and over the malleoli
3 times for added stability.
Next, apply inferior stirrup taps by wrapping around the forefoot behind the malleoli and
crossing under the arch to reinforce the lateral ligaments.
Follow with a figure-8 technique looping around the ankle laterally and medially for further
support of weak ligaments.
Finish with an external buttress component wrapping around the leg above the malleoli for
compression before trimming excess tape.
Check for proper tension, overlap, and skin protection before clearing the athlete to return
to activity appropriately braced. Reapply as needed, usually every 5-7 days.
Return Demonstration: Return demonstration reveals student has successfully mastered
the ankle taping procedure with correctly applied plantarflexion strap, stirrup taps, figure-8,
and external buttress components providing uniform compression across the ankle joint.
The taping technique was smoothly performed in under 10 minutes with no skin
compromise from the rigid tape.
Discussion: Routine ankle taping improves joint position sense and proprioception which
in turn decreases reinjury risk during rehabilitation. Developing craft with this common
injury prevents time lost for athletes in recovery. Ongoing practice ensures competency
with this fundamental taping method.
Section 2: Knee Bracing & Taping
The ACL in particular is vulnerable to reinjury, so protective knee bracing and taping
techniques for stabilizing collateral and cruciate ligaments are important clinical skills:
Demonstration: For an ACL injury in need of light bracing during rehab, apply a prewrap and
then a basic knee sleeve or band wrapped around the patella tendon. The compressive
sleeve provides proprioceptive feedback without limiting motion.
For more substantial knee instability, apply rigid tape (2”) starting superior to the patella by
wrapping circumferentially around the knee while applying medial and lateral tension for
stability. Reinforce this hinge taping with additional figure-8 passes around the joint line.
Bracing the collaterals further involves applying vertical medial and lateral heel locks
running from the knee to just below the tibial tubercle. Finish by firmly patting the tape and
checking for proper compression and skin protection.
As needed, reinforce existing bracing with athletic tape application focusing on specific
ligament deficiencies identified during knee exams. Monitor for proper fit, tension and skin
issues with bracing over time.
Return Demonstration: Student accurately performs knee taping utilizing the figure-8,
circumferential hinge and heel lock components with even tension across collateral and
cruciate ligament insertions on both sides of the knee. Proper technique was
demonstrated efficiently and without tape overhang or skin compromise.
Discussion: Developing proficiency with taping and bracing techniques for the vulnerable
knee protects healing tissues and progression during rehab. Ongoing practice ensures best
outcomes when stabilizing knee injuries are case specific. Improving efficiency also
optimizes treatment.
Section 3: Shoulder Stabilization
Subacromial impingement and instability are frequent shoulder issues requiring protective
taping:
Demonstration: Begin by applying prewrap and circular shoulder pads placed below and
medial to the acromion. Use rigid tape (1.5”) starting high on the upper arm posteriorly.
Apply figure-of-8 circles around the scapula crossing the medial border to provide
compression medially for impingement symptoms.
Then reinforce with circular passes spiraling down around the humerus providing stability
to the glenohumeral joint.
Finish with a posterior sling crossing the tapes behind the shoulder from back to front
adding further compression to the anterior capsule.
Recheck tension and ensure padding prior to clearing the athlete. Re-tape every 5-7 days or
as skin compromise occurs.
Return Demonstration: The student successfully applies shoulder taping with appropriate
tensioning of figure-8 and circular components to compress the impingement point and
stabilize the glenohumeral joint. Padding is correctly placed and prewrap applied smoothly
without wrinkles or compression of vasculature. Proper taping was performed efficiently.
Discussion: Continued practice applying supportive yet restrictive shoulder taping
methods strengthens skills in managing common shoulder injuries. Refining efficiency
optimizes treatment outcomes through repeat reliable applications meeting individual
patient needs.
Section 4: Wrist & Hand Immobilization
The ultra-mobile wrist and hand require special consideration when stabilizing fractures
and soft tissue injuries:
Demonstration: Clean and pad any bony prominences before applying prewrap for skinned
protection. Use a removable self-adherent wrap starting distally at the fingers and spiraling
circumferentially upwards toward the forearm.
Next, reinforce with overlapping figure-8s spanning between the thenar and hypothenar
eminences for thumb and small finger stability. Ensure intact digital flexion by padding
between each finger.
Finish proximally by applying coban around the forearm for further immobilization while
allowing gentle wrist motion as healing allows. Pad all areas and check motion, sensation
and vascularity before and after application.
Monitor closely for skin compromise from circumferential immobilization and swelling.
Adjust wrappings to prevent further injury as needed.
Return Demonstration: The student correctly padded bony prominences before applying
smoothly overlapping layers from fingertips to forearm with gentle flexion preserved
between each digit. The self-adherent wrap was smoothly applied and reinforced with
figure-8s perfectly spanning thenar to hypothenar areas. Wrist and finger mobility,
sensation and circulation were appropriately checked before and after application meeting
technique standards. Wrapping was performed efficiently in under 15 minutes.
Discussion: Gaining experience stabilizing delicate hand and wrist injuries optimizes
immobilization for healing while allowing safe return to function. Continued practice
refines technique efficiency and individualized modifications meeting patient needs.
Section 5: Hamstring & Thigh Wrapping
Soft tissue injuries of the lower extremity require different stabilization strategies:
Demonstration: Clean and apply prewrap followed by non-elastic self-adherent wrap
starting at the distal thigh just proximal to the knee joint.
Overlap circular layers proximally in a flossing motion isolating the hamstring musculature
during the wrap. Pad behind the knee if intact.
Apply moderate initial tension avoiding excessive pressure distally which may affect
circulation. Monitor close contours and skin compromise as swelling fluctuates.
Re-wrap every 2-3 days during acute healing or as needed based on skin integrity, tension
or swelling changes. Adjust flossing patterns to accommodate specific injury sites.
Return Demonstration: The student applies overlapping concentric wraps smoothly from
knee to hip isolating the hamstrings with gentle but sufficient tensioning. The padding was
correctly placed and wrap smoothed around contours without excessive pressure
proximally or distally. Rechecking for vascularity, sensation and skin compromise was also
appropriately demonstrated meeting proficiency standards.
Discussion: Practicing lower extremity wrapping aids developing judgment to individualize
rigidity levels meeting rehab needs. Refining craft optimizes tissue protection and joint
stability promoting quick returns.
Section 6: Advanced Ankle Bracing
Let’s review options for more serious ankle instability:
Demonstration: For moderate ankle sprains with ligament laxity, reinforce standard ankle
taping with a figure-8 tape brace circumferentially wrapping immediately above and below
the malleoli. Apply rigidity with multiple passes.
For severe injuries, also incorporate an air stirrup brace underneath the tape brace.
Position the plantar shell component under the foot and secure the upright stirrup posts
lateral and medial to the malleoli. Inflate as indicated.
Custom ankle orthoses can provide integrated plastic semi-rigid shells and straps to
maximize immobilization during healing. Carefully measure, apply and adjust the fitting per
orthotist recommendations.
Re-evaluate rigidity as healing allows, substituting taping only once residual laxity resolves
with advanced progressive bracing.
Return Demonstration: The student accurately layers ankle taping applied with a figure-8
brace for added rigidity in a severe inversion sprain case study. Strategies for incorporating
additional air stirrup bracing or custom ankle-foot orthoses were also thoughtfully reviewed
meeting the objective.
Discussion: Understanding progressive bracing options optimizes outcomes for significant
ankle instability beyond basic taping alone. Referencing advanced resources aids clinical
decision making and injury management.
Section 7: Case Study Practice
Students will now have hands-on practice partnering to individually apply different taping
and wrapping techniques on each other covering injuries addressed in this course under
instructor guidance and feedback.
Case 1 – A collegiate lacrosse player sustains an ankle inversion sprain. Apply standard
ankle taping.
Assessment: Student correctly applies prewrap, heel/toe pads and the foundational ankle
taping technique—including plantarflexion strap, inferior stirrup taps and figure-8
components—to support the injured ankle. Tension is appropriate and all components are
smoothly applied meeting course standards.
Case 2 – A recreational runner experiences lateral knee pain on trails. Apply basic knee
sleeve bracing.
Assessment: The knee sleeve bracing is smoothly applied with proper tensioning centered
over the patella tendon providing good proprioceptive feedback without compromising
knee motion for this case. Application meets expectations.
Case 3 – A high school baseball pitcher has shoulder pain aggravating activity. Apply
supportive shoulder taping.
Assessment: The shoulder taping is correctly applied with rigid tape figure-8s and circular
reinforcements appropriately tensioned to compress the painful impingement point under
the acromion and stabilize the glenohumeral joint. Padding is correctly positioned and
taping smoothly applied per demonstration standards.
Conclusion
Thank you for the opportunity to practice and demonstrate important taping and wrapping
techniques. Developing proficiency in stabilizing techniques for common sports injuries
strengthens clinical skills and promotes best practices in injury management. Ongoing
practice applying varied techniques to mock patient case studies optimizes preparedness
to confidently Brace real-world acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions.
Introduction
As athletic trainers, we rely on taping and wrapping to provide support, immobilization, and
protection for injured athletes. These techniques allow athletes to continue competing and
training even when recovering from various musculoskeletal injuries. It is imperative that
we develop mastery over a variety of taping styles so that we can properly apply them in
clinical settings.
This hands-on assignment will provide opportunities to practice foundational taping and
wrapping methods. Through demonstrations, return demonstrations, and case studies,
students will develop competency in techniques for the ankle, knee, shoulder, wrist/hand
and other body regions. Emphasis will be placed on indications, contraindications,
materials and step-by-step application procedures. The goal is to leave feeling confident
applying evidenced-based taping techniques that optimize injury management.
Section 1: Ankle Taping
Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries seen in sports which puts clinical
competency in ankle taping at a premium. Let’s review proper procedures:
Demonstration: Apply prewrap and heel/toe pads to ensure skin protection and padding.
Use rigid athletic tape (1.5”-2”) starting proximally at the malleoli.
Start with a plantar flexion protective strap by wrapping under the foot and over the malleoli
3 times for added stability.
Next, apply inferior stirrup taps by wrapping around the forefoot behind the malleoli and
crossing under the arch to reinforce the lateral ligaments.
Follow with a figure-8 technique looping around the ankle laterally and medially for further
support of weak ligaments.
Finish with an external buttress component wrapping around the leg above the malleoli for
compression before trimming excess tape.
Check for proper tension, overlap, and skin protection before clearing the athlete to return
to activity appropriately braced. Reapply as needed, usually every 5-7 days.
Return Demonstration: Return demonstration reveals student has successfully mastered
the ankle taping procedure with correctly applied plantarflexion strap, stirrup taps, figure-8,
and external buttress components providing uniform compression across the ankle joint.
The taping technique was smoothly performed in under 10 minutes with no skin
compromise from the rigid tape.
Discussion: Routine ankle taping improves joint position sense and proprioception which
in turn decreases reinjury risk during rehabilitation. Developing craft with this common
injury prevents time lost for athletes in recovery. Ongoing practice ensures competency
with this fundamental taping method.
Section 2: Knee Bracing & Taping
The ACL in particular is vulnerable to reinjury, so protective knee bracing and taping
techniques for stabilizing collateral and cruciate ligaments are important clinical skills:
Demonstration: For an ACL injury in need of light bracing during rehab, apply a prewrap and
then a basic knee sleeve or band wrapped around the patella tendon. The compressive
sleeve provides proprioceptive feedback without limiting motion.
For more substantial knee instability, apply rigid tape (2”) starting superior to the patella by
wrapping circumferentially around the knee while applying medial and lateral tension for
stability. Reinforce this hinge taping with additional figure-8 passes around the joint line.
Bracing the collaterals further involves applying vertical medial and lateral heel locks
running from the knee to just below the tibial tubercle. Finish by firmly patting the tape and
checking for proper compression and skin protection.
As needed, reinforce existing bracing with athletic tape application focusing on specific
ligament deficiencies identified during knee exams. Monitor for proper fit, tension and skin
issues with bracing over time.
Return Demonstration: Student accurately performs knee taping utilizing the figure-8,
circumferential hinge and heel lock components with even tension across collateral and
cruciate ligament insertions on both sides of the knee. Proper technique was
demonstrated efficiently and without tape overhang or skin compromise.
Discussion: Developing proficiency with taping and bracing techniques for the vulnerable
knee protects healing tissues and progression during rehab. Ongoing practice ensures best
outcomes when stabilizing knee injuries are case specific. Improving efficiency also
optimizes treatment.
Section 3: Shoulder Stabilization
Subacromial impingement and instability are frequent shoulder issues requiring protective
taping:
Demonstration: Begin by applying prewrap and circular shoulder pads placed below and
medial to the acromion. Use rigid tape (1.5”) starting high on the upper arm posteriorly.
Apply figure-of-8 circles around the scapula crossing the medial border to provide
compression medially for impingement symptoms.
Then reinforce with circular passes spiraling down around the humerus providing stability
to the glenohumeral joint.
Finish with a posterior sling crossing the tapes behind the shoulder from back to front
adding further compression to the anterior capsule.
Recheck tension and ensure padding prior to clearing the athlete. Re-tape every 5-7 days or
as skin compromise occurs.
Return Demonstration: The student successfully applies shoulder taping with appropriate
tensioning of figure-8 and circular components to compress the impingement point and
stabilize the glenohumeral joint. Padding is correctly placed and prewrap applied smoothly
without wrinkles or compression of vasculature. Proper taping was performed efficiently.
Discussion: Continued practice applying supportive yet restrictive shoulder taping
methods strengthens skills in managing common shoulder injuries. Refining efficiency
optimizes treatment outcomes through repeat reliable applications meeting individual
patient needs.
Section 4: Wrist & Hand Immobilization
The ultra-mobile wrist and hand require special consideration when stabilizing fractures
and soft tissue injuries:
Demonstration: Clean and pad any bony prominences before applying prewrap for skinned
protection. Use a removable self-adherent wrap starting distally at the fingers and spiraling
circumferentially upwards toward the forearm.
Next, reinforce with overlapping figure-8s spanning between the thenar and hypothenar
eminences for thumb and small finger stability. Ensure intact digital flexion by padding
between each finger.
Finish proximally by applying coban around the forearm for further immobilization while
allowing gentle wrist motion as healing allows. Pad all areas and check motion, sensation
and vascularity before and after application.
Monitor closely for skin compromise from circumferential immobilization and swelling.
Adjust wrappings to prevent further injury as needed.
Return Demonstration: The student correctly padded bony prominences before applying
smoothly overlapping layers from fingertips to forearm with gentle flexion preserved
between each digit. The self-adherent wrap was smoothly applied and reinforced with
figure-8s perfectly spanning thenar to hypothenar areas. Wrist and finger mobility,
sensation and circulation were appropriately checked before and after application meeting
technique standards. Wrapping was performed efficiently in under 15 minutes.
Discussion: Gaining experience stabilizing delicate hand and wrist injuries optimizes
immobilization for healing while allowing safe return to function. Continued practice
refines technique efficiency and individualized modifications meeting patient needs.
Section 5: Hamstring & Thigh Wrapping
Soft tissue injuries of the lower extremity require different stabilization strategies:
Demonstration: Clean and apply prewrap followed by non-elastic self-adherent wrap
starting at the distal thigh just proximal to the knee joint.
Overlap circular layers proximally in a flossing motion isolating the hamstring musculature
during the wrap. Pad behind the knee if intact.
Apply moderate initial tension avoiding excessive pressure distally which may affect
circulation. Monitor close contours and skin compromise as swelling fluctuates.
Re-wrap every 2-3 days during acute healing or as needed based on skin integrity, tension
or swelling changes. Adjust flossing patterns to accommodate specific injury sites.
Return Demonstration: The student applies overlapping concentric wraps smoothly from
knee to hip isolating the hamstrings with gentle but sufficient tensioning. The padding was
correctly placed and wrap smoothed around contours without excessive pressure
proximally or distally. Rechecking for vascularity, sensation and skin compromise was also
appropriately demonstrated meeting proficiency standards.
Discussion: Practicing lower extremity wrapping aids developing judgment to individualize
rigidity levels meeting rehab needs. Refining craft optimizes tissue protection and joint
stability promoting quick returns.
Section 6: Advanced Ankle Bracing
Let’s review options for more serious ankle instability:
Demonstration: For moderate ankle sprains with ligament laxity, reinforce standard ankle
taping with a figure-8 tape brace circumferentially wrapping immediately above and below
the malleoli. Apply rigidity with multiple passes.
For severe injuries, also incorporate an air stirrup brace underneath the tape brace.
Position the plantar shell component under the foot and secure the upright stirrup posts
lateral and medial to the malleoli. Inflate as indicated.
Custom ankle orthoses can provide integrated plastic semi-rigid shells and straps to
maximize immobilization during healing. Carefully measure, apply and adjust the fitting per
orthotist recommendations.
Re-evaluate rigidity as healing allows, substituting taping only once residual laxity resolves
with advanced progressive bracing.
Return Demonstration: The student accurately layers ankle taping applied with a figure-8
brace for added rigidity in a severe inversion sprain case study. Strategies for incorporating
additional air stirrup bracing or custom ankle-foot orthoses were also thoughtfully reviewed
meeting the objective.
Discussion: Understanding progressive bracing options optimizes outcomes for significant
ankle instability beyond basic taping alone. Referencing advanced resources aids clinical
decision making and injury management.
Section 7: Case Study Practice
Students will now have hands-on practice partnering to individually apply different taping
and wrapping techniques on each other covering injuries addressed in this course under
instructor guidance and feedback.
Case 1 – A collegiate lacrosse player sustains an ankle inversion sprain. Apply standard
ankle taping.
Assessment: Student correctly applies prewrap, heel/toe pads and the foundational ankle
taping technique—including plantarflexion strap, inferior stirrup taps and figure-8
components—to support the injured ankle. Tension is appropriate and all components are
smoothly applied meeting course standards.
Case 2 – A recreational runner experiences lateral knee pain on trails. Apply basic knee
sleeve bracing.
Assessment: The knee sleeve bracing is smoothly applied with proper tensioning centered
over the patella tendon providing good proprioceptive feedback without compromising
knee motion for this case. Application meets expectations.
Case 3 – A high school baseball pitcher has shoulder pain aggravating activity. Apply
supportive shoulder taping.
Assessment: The shoulder taping is correctly applied with rigid tape figure-8s and circular
reinforcements appropriately tensioned to compress the painful impingement point under
the acromion and stabilize the glenohumeral joint. Padding is correctly positioned and
taping smoothly applied per demonstration standards.
Conclusion
Thank you for the opportunity to practice and demonstrate important taping and wrapping
techniques. Developing proficiency in stabilizing techniques for common sports injuries
strengthens clinical skills and promotes best practices in injury management. Ongoing
practice applying varied techniques to mock patient case studies optimizes preparedness
to confidently Brace real-world acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions.
Introduction
As athletic trainers, we rely on taping and wrapping to provide support, immobilization, and
protection for injured athletes. These techniques allow athletes to continue competing and
training even when recovering from various musculoskeletal injuries. It is imperative that
we develop mastery over a variety of taping styles so that we can properly apply them in
clinical settings.
This hands-on assignment will provide opportunities to practice foundational taping and
wrapping methods. Through demonstrations, return demonstrations, and case studies,
students will develop competency in techniques for the ankle, knee, shoulder, wrist/hand
and other body regions. Emphasis will be placed on indications, contraindications,
materials and step-by-step application procedures. The goal is to leave feeling confident
applying evidenced-based taping techniques that optimize injury management.
Section 1: Ankle Taping
Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries seen in sports which puts clinical
competency in ankle taping at a premium. Let’s review proper procedures:
Demonstration: Apply prewrap and heel/toe pads to ensure skin protection and padding.
Use rigid athletic tape (1.5”-2”) starting proximally at the malleoli.
Start with a plantar flexion protective strap by wrapping under the foot and over the malleoli
3 times for added stability.
Next, apply inferior stirrup taps by wrapping around the forefoot behind the malleoli and
crossing under the arch to reinforce the lateral ligaments.
Follow with a figure-8 technique looping around the ankle laterally and medially for further
support of weak ligaments.
Finish with an external buttress component wrapping around the leg above the malleoli for
compression before trimming excess tape.
Check for proper tension, overlap, and skin protection before clearing the athlete to return
to activity appropriately braced. Reapply as needed, usually every 5-7 days.
Return Demonstration: Return demonstration reveals student has successfully mastered
the ankle taping procedure with correctly applied plantarflexion strap, stirrup taps, figure-8,
and external buttress components providing uniform compression across the ankle joint.
The taping technique was smoothly performed in under 10 minutes with no skin
compromise from the rigid tape.
Discussion: Routine ankle taping improves joint position sense and proprioception which
in turn decreases reinjury risk during rehabilitation. Developing craft with this common
injury prevents time lost for athletes in recovery. Ongoing practice ensures competency
with this fundamental taping method.
Section 2: Knee Bracing & Taping
The ACL in particular is vulnerable to reinjury, so protective knee bracing and taping
techniques for stabilizing collateral and cruciate ligaments are important clinical skills:
Demonstration: For an ACL injury in need of light bracing during rehab, apply a prewrap and
then a basic knee sleeve or band wrapped around the patella tendon. The compressive
sleeve provides proprioceptive feedback without limiting motion.
For more substantial knee instability, apply rigid tape (2”) starting superior to the patella by
wrapping circumferentially around the knee while applying medial and lateral tension for
stability. Reinforce this hinge taping with additional figure-8 passes around the joint line.
Bracing the collaterals further involves applying vertical medial and lateral heel locks
running from the knee to just below the tibial tubercle. Finish by firmly patting the tape and
checking for proper compression and skin protection.
As needed, reinforce existing bracing with athletic tape application focusing on specific
ligament deficiencies identified during knee exams. Monitor for proper fit, tension and skin
issues with bracing over time.
Return Demonstration: Student accurately performs knee taping utilizing the figure-8,
circumferential hinge and heel lock components with even tension across collateral and
cruciate ligament insertions on both sides of the knee. Proper technique was
demonstrated efficiently and without tape overhang or skin compromise.
Discussion: Developing proficiency with taping and bracing techniques for the vulnerable
knee protects healing tissues and progression during rehab. Ongoing practice ensures best
outcomes when stabilizing knee injuries are case specific. Improving efficiency also
optimizes treatment.
Section 3: Shoulder Stabilization
Subacromial impingement and instability are frequent shoulder issues requiring protective
taping:
Demonstration: Begin by applying prewrap and circular shoulder pads placed below and
medial to the acromion. Use rigid tape (1.5”) starting high on the upper arm posteriorly.
Apply figure-of-8 circles around the scapula crossing the medial border to provide
compression medially for impingement symptoms.
Then reinforce with circular passes spiraling down around the humerus providing stability
to the glenohumeral joint.
Finish with a posterior sling crossing the tapes behind the shoulder from back to front
adding further compression to the anterior capsule.
Recheck tension and ensure padding prior to clearing the athlete. Re-tape every 5-7 days or
as skin compromise occurs.
Return Demonstration: The student successfully applies shoulder taping with appropriate
tensioning of figure-8 and circular components to compress the impingement point and
stabilize the glenohumeral joint. Padding is correctly placed and prewrap applied smoothly
without wrinkles or compression of vasculature. Proper taping was performed efficiently.
Discussion: Continued practice applying supportive yet restrictive shoulder taping
methods strengthens skills in managing common shoulder injuries. Refining efficiency
optimizes treatment outcomes through repeat reliable applications meeting individual
patient needs.
Section 4: Wrist & Hand Immobilization
The ultra-mobile wrist and hand require special consideration when stabilizing fractures
and soft tissue injuries:
Demonstration: Clean and pad any bony prominences before applying prewrap for skinned
protection. Use a removable self-adherent wrap starting distally at the fingers and spiraling
circumferentially upwards toward the forearm.
Next, reinforce with overlapping figure-8s spanning between the thenar and hypothenar
eminences for thumb and small finger stability. Ensure intact digital flexion by padding
between each finger.
Finish proximally by applying coban around the forearm for further immobilization while
allowing gentle wrist motion as healing allows. Pad all areas and check motion, sensation
and vascularity before and after application.
Monitor closely for skin compromise from circumferential immobilization and swelling.
Adjust wrappings to prevent further injury as needed.
Return Demonstration: The student correctly padded bony prominences before applying
smoothly overlapping layers from fingertips to forearm with gentle flexion preserved
between each digit. The self-adherent wrap was smoothly applied and reinforced with
figure-8s perfectly spanning thenar to hypothenar areas. Wrist and finger mobility,
sensation and circulation were appropriately checked before and after application meeting
technique standards. Wrapping was performed efficiently in under 15 minutes.
Discussion: Gaining experience stabilizing delicate hand and wrist injuries optimizes
immobilization for healing while allowing safe return to function. Continued practice
refines technique efficiency and individualized modifications meeting patient needs.
Section 5: Hamstring & Thigh Wrapping
Soft tissue injuries of the lower extremity require different stabilization strategies:
Demonstration: Clean and apply prewrap followed by non-elastic self-adherent wrap
starting at the distal thigh just proximal to the knee joint.
Overlap circular layers proximally in a flossing motion isolating the hamstring musculature
during the wrap. Pad behind the knee if intact.
Apply moderate initial tension avoiding excessive pressure distally which may affect
circulation. Monitor close contours and skin compromise as swelling fluctuates.
Re-wrap every 2-3 days during acute healing or as needed based on skin integrity, tension
or swelling changes. Adjust flossing patterns to accommodate specific injury sites.
Return Demonstration: The student applies overlapping concentric wraps smoothly from
knee to hip isolating the hamstrings with gentle but sufficient tensioning. The padding was
correctly placed and wrap smoothed around contours without excessive pressure
proximally or distally. Rechecking for vascularity, sensation and skin compromise was also
appropriately demonstrated meeting proficiency standards.
Discussion: Practicing lower extremity wrapping aids developing judgment to individualize
rigidity levels meeting rehab needs. Refining craft optimizes tissue protection and joint
stability promoting quick returns.
Section 6: Advanced Ankle Bracing
Let’s review options for more serious ankle instability:
Demonstration: For moderate ankle sprains with ligament laxity, reinforce standard ankle
taping with a figure-8 tape brace circumferentially wrapping immediately above and below
the malleoli. Apply rigidity with multiple passes.
For severe injuries, also incorporate an air stirrup brace underneath the tape brace.
Position the plantar shell component under the foot and secure the upright stirrup posts
lateral and medial to the malleoli. Inflate as indicated.
Custom ankle orthoses can provide integrated plastic semi-rigid shells and straps to
maximize immobilization during healing. Carefully measure, apply and adjust the fitting per
orthotist recommendations.
Re-evaluate rigidity as healing allows, substituting taping only once residual laxity resolves
with advanced progressive bracing.
Return Demonstration: The student accurately layers ankle taping applied with a figure-8
brace for added rigidity in a severe inversion sprain case study. Strategies for incorporating
additional air stirrup bracing or custom ankle-foot orthoses were also thoughtfully reviewed
meeting the objective.
Discussion: Understanding progressive bracing options optimizes outcomes for significant
ankle instability beyond basic taping alone. Referencing advanced resources aids clinical
decision making and injury management.
Section 7: Case Study Practice
Students will now have hands-on practice partnering to individually apply different taping
and wrapping techniques on each other covering injuries addressed in this course under
instructor guidance and feedback.
Case 1 – A collegiate lacrosse player sustains an ankle inversion sprain. Apply standard
ankle taping.
Assessment: Student correctly applies prewrap, heel/toe pads and the foundational ankle
taping technique—including plantarflexion strap, inferior stirrup taps and figure-8
components—to support the injured ankle. Tension is appropriate and all components are
smoothly applied meeting course standards.
Case 2 – A recreational runner experiences lateral knee pain on trails. Apply basic knee
sleeve bracing.
Assessment: The knee sleeve bracing is smoothly applied with proper tensioning centered
over the patella tendon providing good proprioceptive feedback without compromising
knee motion for this case. Application meets expectations.
Case 3 – A high school baseball pitcher has shoulder pain aggravating activity. Apply
supportive shoulder taping.
Assessment: The shoulder taping is correctly applied with rigid tape figure-8s and circular
reinforcements appropriately tensioned to compress the painful impingement point under
the acromion and stabilize the glenohumeral joint. Padding is correctly positioned and
taping smoothly applied per demonstration standards.
Conclusion
Thank you for the opportunity to practice and demonstrate important taping and wrapping
techniques. Developing proficiency in stabilizing techniques for common sports injuries
strengthens clinical skills and promotes best practices in injury management. Ongoing
practice applying varied techniques to mock patient case studies optimizes preparedness
to confidently Brace real-world acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions.
Introduction
As athletic trainers, we rely on taping and wrapping to provide support, immobilization, and
protection for injured athletes. These techniques allow athletes to continue competing and
training even when recovering from various musculoskeletal injuries. It is imperative that
we develop mastery over a variety of taping styles so that we can properly apply them in
clinical settings.
This hands-on assignment will provide opportunities to practice foundational taping and
wrapping methods. Through demonstrations, return demonstrations, and case studies,
students will develop competency in techniques for the ankle, knee, shoulder, wrist/hand
and other body regions. Emphasis will be placed on indications, contraindications,
materials and step-by-step application procedures. The goal is to leave feeling confident
applying evidenced-based taping techniques that optimize injury management.
Section 1: Ankle Taping
Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries seen in sports which puts clinical
competency in ankle taping at a premium. Let’s review proper procedures:
Demonstration: Apply prewrap and heel/toe pads to ensure skin protection and padding.
Use rigid athletic tape (1.5”-2”) starting proximally at the malleoli.
Start with a plantar flexion protective strap by wrapping under the foot and over the malleoli
3 times for added stability.
Next, apply inferior stirrup taps by wrapping around the forefoot behind the malleoli and
crossing under the arch to reinforce the lateral ligaments.
Follow with a figure-8 technique looping around the ankle laterally and medially for further
support of weak ligaments.
Finish with an external buttress component wrapping around the leg above the malleoli for
compression before trimming excess tape.
Check for proper tension, overlap, and skin protection before clearing the athlete to return
to activity appropriately braced. Reapply as needed, usually every 5-7 days.
Return Demonstration: Return demonstration reveals student has successfully mastered
the ankle taping procedure with correctly applied plantarflexion strap, stirrup taps, figure-8,
and external buttress components providing uniform compression across the ankle joint.
The taping technique was smoothly performed in under 10 minutes with no skin
compromise from the rigid tape.
Discussion: Routine ankle taping improves joint position sense and proprioception which
in turn decreases reinjury risk during rehabilitation. Developing craft with this common
injury prevents time lost for athletes in recovery. Ongoing practice ensures competency
with this fundamental taping method.
Section 2: Knee Bracing & Taping
The ACL in particular is vulnerable to reinjury, so protective knee bracing and taping
techniques for stabilizing collateral and cruciate ligaments are important clinical skills:
Demonstration: For an ACL injury in need of light bracing during rehab, apply a prewrap and
then a basic knee sleeve or band wrapped around the patella tendon. The compressive
sleeve provides proprioceptive feedback without limiting motion.
For more substantial knee instability, apply rigid tape (2”) starting superior to the patella by
wrapping circumferentially around the knee while applying medial and lateral tension for
stability. Reinforce this hinge taping with additional figure-8 passes around the joint line.
Bracing the collaterals further involves applying vertical medial and lateral heel locks
running from the knee to just below the tibial tubercle. Finish by firmly patting the tape and
checking for proper compression and skin protection.
As needed, reinforce existing bracing with athletic tape application focusing on specific
ligament deficiencies identified during knee exams. Monitor for proper fit, tension and skin
issues with bracing over time.
Return Demonstration: Student accurately performs knee taping utilizing the figure-8,
circumferential hinge and heel lock components with even tension across collateral and
cruciate ligament insertions on both sides of the knee. Proper technique was
demonstrated efficiently and without tape overhang or skin compromise.
Discussion: Developing proficiency with taping and bracing techniques for the vulnerable
knee protects healing tissues and progression during rehab. Ongoing practice ensures best
outcomes when stabilizing knee injuries are case specific. Improving efficiency also
optimizes treatment.
Section 3: Shoulder Stabilization
Subacromial impingement and instability are frequent shoulder issues requiring protective
taping:
Demonstration: Begin by applying prewrap and circular shoulder pads placed below and
medial to the acromion. Use rigid tape (1.5”) starting high on the upper arm posteriorly.
Apply figure-of-8 circles around the scapula crossing the medial border to provide
compression medially for impingement symptoms.
Then reinforce with circular passes spiraling down around the humerus providing stability
to the glenohumeral joint.
Finish with a posterior sling crossing the tapes behind the shoulder from back to front
adding further compression to the anterior capsule.
Recheck tension and ensure padding prior to clearing the athlete. Re-tape every 5-7 days or
as skin compromise occurs.
Return Demonstration: The student successfully applies shoulder taping with appropriate
tensioning of figure-8 and circular components to compress the impingement point and
stabilize the glenohumeral joint. Padding is correctly placed and prewrap applied smoothly
without wrinkles or compression of vasculature. Proper taping was performed efficiently.
Discussion: Continued practice applying supportive yet restrictive shoulder taping
methods strengthens skills in managing common shoulder injuries. Refining efficiency
optimizes treatment outcomes through repeat reliable applications meeting individual
patient needs.
Section 4: Wrist & Hand Immobilization
The ultra-mobile wrist and hand require special consideration when stabilizing fractures
and soft tissue injuries:
Demonstration: Clean and pad any bony prominences before applying prewrap for skinned
protection. Use a removable self-adherent wrap starting distally at the fingers and spiraling
circumferentially upwards toward the forearm.
Next, reinforce with overlapping figure-8s spanning between the thenar and hypothenar
eminences for thumb and small finger stability. Ensure intact digital flexion by padding
between each finger.
Finish proximally by applying coban around the forearm for further immobilization while
allowing gentle wrist motion as healing allows. Pad all areas and check motion, sensation
and vascularity before and after application.
Monitor closely for skin compromise from circumferential immobilization and swelling.
Adjust wrappings to prevent further injury as needed.
Return Demonstration: The student correctly padded bony prominences before applying
smoothly overlapping layers from fingertips to forearm with gentle flexion preserved
between each digit. The self-adherent wrap was smoothly applied and reinforced with
figure-8s perfectly spanning thenar to hypothenar areas. Wrist and finger mobility,
sensation and circulation were appropriately checked before and after application meeting
technique standards. Wrapping was performed efficiently in under 15 minutes.
Discussion: Gaining experience stabilizing delicate hand and wrist injuries optimizes
immobilization for healing while allowing safe return to function. Continued practice
refines technique efficiency and individualized modifications meeting patient needs.
Section 5: Hamstring & Thigh Wrapping
Soft tissue injuries of the lower extremity require different stabilization strategies:
Demonstration: Clean and apply prewrap followed by non-elastic self-adherent wrap
starting at the distal thigh just proximal to the knee joint.
Overlap circular layers proximally in a flossing motion isolating the hamstring musculature
during the wrap. Pad behind the knee if intact.
Apply moderate initial tension avoiding excessive pressure distally which may affect
circulation. Monitor close contours and skin compromise as swelling fluctuates.
Re-wrap every 2-3 days during acute healing or as needed based on skin integrity, tension
or swelling changes. Adjust flossing patterns to accommodate specific injury sites.
Return Demonstration: The student applies overlapping concentric wraps smoothly from
knee to hip isolating the hamstrings with gentle but sufficient tensioning. The padding was
correctly placed and wrap smoothed around contours without excessive pressure
proximally or distally. Rechecking for vascularity, sensation and skin compromise was also
appropriately demonstrated meeting proficiency standards.
Discussion: Practicing lower extremity wrapping aids developing judgment to individualize
rigidity levels meeting rehab needs. Refining craft optimizes tissue protection and joint
stability promoting quick returns.
Section 6: Advanced Ankle Bracing
Let’s review options for more serious ankle instability:
Demonstration: For moderate ankle sprains with ligament laxity, reinforce standard ankle
taping with a figure-8 tape brace circumferentially wrapping immediately above and below
the malleoli. Apply rigidity with multiple passes.
For severe injuries, also incorporate an air stirrup brace underneath the tape brace.
Position the plantar shell component under the foot and secure the upright stirrup posts
lateral and medial to the malleoli. Inflate as indicated.
Custom ankle orthoses can provide integrated plastic semi-rigid shells and straps to
maximize immobilization during healing. Carefully measure, apply and adjust the fitting per
orthotist recommendations.
Re-evaluate rigidity as healing allows, substituting taping only once residual laxity resolves
with advanced progressive bracing.
Return Demonstration: The student accurately layers ankle taping applied with a figure-8
brace for added rigidity in a severe inversion sprain case study. Strategies for incorporating
additional air stirrup bracing or custom ankle-foot orthoses were also thoughtfully reviewed
meeting the objective.
Discussion: Understanding progressive bracing options optimizes outcomes for significant
ankle instability beyond basic taping alone. Referencing advanced resources aids clinical
decision making and injury management.
Section 7: Case Study Practice
Students will now have hands-on practice partnering to individually apply different taping
and wrapping techniques on each other covering injuries addressed in this course under
instructor guidance and feedback.
Case 1 – A collegiate lacrosse player sustains an ankle inversion sprain. Apply standard
ankle taping.
Assessment: Student correctly applies prewrap, heel/toe pads and the foundational ankle
taping technique—including plantarflexion strap, inferior stirrup taps and figure-8
components—to support the injured ankle. Tension is appropriate and all components are
smoothly applied meeting course standards.
Case 2 – A recreational runner experiences lateral knee pain on trails. Apply basic knee
sleeve bracing.
Assessment: The knee sleeve bracing is smoothly applied with proper tensioning centered
over the patella tendon providing good proprioceptive feedback without compromising
knee motion for this case. Application meets expectations.
Case 3 – A high school baseball pitcher has shoulder pain aggravating activity. Apply
supportive shoulder taping.
Assessment: The shoulder taping is correctly applied with rigid tape figure-8s and circular
reinforcements appropriately tensioned to compress the painful impingement point under
the acromion and stabilize the glenohumeral joint. Padding is correctly positioned and
taping smoothly applied per demonstration standards.
Conclusion
Thank you for the opportunity to practice and demonstrate important taping and wrapping
techniques. Developing proficiency in stabilizing techniques for common sports injuries
strengthens clinical skills and promotes best practices in injury management. Ongoing
practice applying varied techniques to mock patient case studies optimizes preparedness
to confidently Brace real-world acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions.
Introduction
As athletic trainers, we rely on taping and wrapping to provide support, immobilization, and
protection for injured athletes. These techniques allow athletes to continue competing and
training even when recovering from various musculoskeletal injuries. It is imperative that
we develop mastery over a variety of taping styles so that we can properly apply them in
clinical settings.
This hands-on assignment will provide opportunities to practice foundational taping and
wrapping methods. Through demonstrations, return demonstrations, and case studies,
students will develop competency in techniques for the ankle, knee, shoulder, wrist/hand
and other body regions. Emphasis will be placed on indications, contraindications,
materials and step-by-step application procedures. The goal is to leave feeling confident
applying evidenced-based taping techniques that optimize injury management.
Section 1: Ankle Taping
Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries seen in sports which puts clinical
competency in ankle taping at a premium. Let’s review proper procedures:
Demonstration: Apply prewrap and heel/toe pads to ensure skin protection and padding.
Use rigid athletic tape (1.5”-2”) starting proximally at the malleoli.
Start with a plantar flexion protective strap by wrapping under the foot and over the malleoli
3 times for added stability.
Next, apply inferior stirrup taps by wrapping around the forefoot behind the malleoli and
crossing under the arch to reinforce the lateral ligaments.
Follow with a figure-8 technique looping around the ankle laterally and medially for further
support of weak ligaments.
Finish with an external buttress component wrapping around the leg above the malleoli for
compression before trimming excess tape.
Check for proper tension, overlap, and skin protection before clearing the athlete to return
to activity appropriately braced. Reapply as needed, usually every 5-7 days.
Return Demonstration: Return demonstration reveals student has successfully mastered
the ankle taping procedure with correctly applied plantarflexion strap, stirrup taps, figure-8,
and external buttress components providing uniform compression across the ankle joint.
The taping technique was smoothly performed in under 10 minutes with no skin
compromise from the rigid tape.
Discussion: Routine ankle taping improves joint position sense and proprioception which
in turn decreases reinjury risk during rehabilitation. Developing craft with this common
injury prevents time lost for athletes in recovery. Ongoing practice ensures competency
with this fundamental taping method.
Section 2: Knee Bracing & Taping
The ACL in particular is vulnerable to reinjury, so protective knee bracing and taping
techniques for stabilizing collateral and cruciate ligaments are important clinical skills:
Demonstration: For an ACL injury in need of light bracing during rehab, apply a prewrap and
then a basic knee sleeve or band wrapped around the patella tendon. The compressive
sleeve provides proprioceptive feedback without limiting motion.
For more substantial knee instability, apply rigid tape (2”) starting superior to the patella by
wrapping circumferentially around the knee while applying medial and lateral tension for
stability. Reinforce this hinge taping with additional figure-8 passes around the joint line.
Bracing the collaterals further involves applying vertical medial and lateral heel locks
running from the knee to just below the tibial tubercle. Finish by firmly patting the tape and
checking for proper compression and skin protection.
As needed, reinforce existing bracing with athletic tape application focusing on specific
ligament deficiencies identified during knee exams. Monitor for proper fit, tension and skin
issues with bracing over time.
Return Demonstration: Student accurately performs knee taping utilizing the figure-8,
circumferential hinge and heel lock components with even tension across collateral and
cruciate ligament insertions on both sides of the knee. Proper technique was
demonstrated efficiently and without tape overhang or skin compromise.
Discussion: Developing proficiency with taping and bracing techniques for the vulnerable
knee protects healing tissues and progression during rehab. Ongoing practice ensures best
outcomes when stabilizing knee injuries are case specific. Improving efficiency also
optimizes treatment.
Section 3: Shoulder Stabilization
Subacromial impingement and instability are frequent shoulder issues requiring protective
taping:
Demonstration: Begin by applying prewrap and circular shoulder pads placed below and
medial to the acromion. Use rigid tape (1.5”) starting high on the upper arm posteriorly.
Apply figure-of-8 circles around the scapula crossing the medial border to provide
compression medially for impingement symptoms.
Then reinforce with circular passes spiraling down around the humerus providing stability
to the glenohumeral joint.
Finish with a posterior sling crossing the tapes behind the shoulder from back to front
adding further compression to the anterior capsule.
Recheck tension and ensure padding prior to clearing the athlete. Re-tape every 5-7 days or
as skin compromise occurs.
Return Demonstration: The student successfully applies shoulder taping with appropriate
tensioning of figure-8 and circular components to compress the impingement point and
stabilize the glenohumeral joint. Padding is correctly placed and prewrap applied smoothly
without wrinkles or compression of vasculature. Proper taping was performed efficiently.
Discussion: Continued practice applying supportive yet restrictive shoulder taping
methods strengthens skills in managing common shoulder injuries. Refining efficiency
optimizes treatment outcomes through repeat reliable applications meeting individual
patient needs.
Section 4: Wrist & Hand Immobilization
The ultra-mobile wrist and hand require special consideration when stabilizing fractures
and soft tissue injuries:
Demonstration: Clean and pad any bony prominences before applying prewrap for skinned
protection. Use a removable self-adherent wrap starting distally at the fingers and spiraling
circumferentially upwards toward the forearm.
Next, reinforce with overlapping figure-8s spanning between the thenar and hypothenar
eminences for thumb and small finger stability. Ensure intact digital flexion by padding
between each finger.
Finish proximally by applying coban around the forearm for further immobilization while
allowing gentle wrist motion as healing allows. Pad all areas and check motion, sensation
and vascularity before and after application.
Monitor closely for skin compromise from circumferential immobilization and swelling.
Adjust wrappings to prevent further injury as needed.
Return Demonstration: The student correctly padded bony prominences before applying
smoothly overlapping layers from fingertips to forearm with gentle flexion preserved
between each digit. The self-adherent wrap was smoothly applied and reinforced with
figure-8s perfectly spanning thenar to hypothenar areas. Wrist and finger mobility,
sensation and circulation were appropriately checked before and after application meeting
technique standards. Wrapping was performed efficiently in under 15 minutes.
Discussion: Gaining experience stabilizing delicate hand and wrist injuries optimizes
immobilization for healing while allowing safe return to function. Continued practice
refines technique efficiency and individualized modifications meeting patient needs.
Section 5: Hamstring & Thigh Wrapping
Soft tissue injuries of the lower extremity require different stabilization strategies:
Demonstration: Clean and apply prewrap followed by non-elastic self-adherent wrap
starting at the distal thigh just proximal to the knee joint.
Overlap circular layers proximally in a flossing motion isolating the hamstring musculature
during the wrap. Pad behind the knee if intact.
Apply moderate initial tension avoiding excessive pressure distally which may affect
circulation. Monitor close contours and skin compromise as swelling fluctuates.
Re-wrap every 2-3 days during acute healing or as needed based on skin integrity, tension
or swelling changes. Adjust flossing patterns to accommodate specific injury sites.
Return Demonstration: The student applies overlapping concentric wraps smoothly from
knee to hip isolating the hamstrings with gentle but sufficient tensioning. The padding was
correctly placed and wrap smoothed around contours without excessive pressure
proximally or distally. Rechecking for vascularity, sensation and skin compromise was also
appropriately demonstrated meeting proficiency standards.
Discussion: Practicing lower extremity wrapping aids developing judgment to individualize
rigidity levels meeting rehab needs. Refining craft optimizes tissue protection and joint
stability promoting quick returns.
Section 6: Advanced Ankle Bracing
Let’s review options for more serious ankle instability:
Demonstration: For moderate ankle sprains with ligament laxity, reinforce standard ankle
taping with a figure-8 tape brace circumferentially wrapping immediately above and below
the malleoli. Apply rigidity with multiple passes.
For severe injuries, also incorporate an air stirrup brace underneath the tape brace.
Position the plantar shell component under the foot and secure the upright stirrup posts
lateral and medial to the malleoli. Inflate as indicated.
Custom ankle orthoses can provide integrated plastic semi-rigid shells and straps to
maximize immobilization during healing. Carefully measure, apply and adjust the fitting per
orthotist recommendations.
Re-evaluate rigidity as healing allows, substituting taping only once residual laxity resolves
with advanced progressive bracing.
Return Demonstration: The student accurately layers ankle taping applied with a figure-8
brace for added rigidity in a severe inversion sprain case study. Strategies for incorporating
additional air stirrup bracing or custom ankle-foot orthoses were also thoughtfully reviewed
meeting the objective.
Discussion: Understanding progressive bracing options optimizes outcomes for significant
ankle instability beyond basic taping alone. Referencing advanced resources aids clinical
decision making and injury management.
Section 7: Case Study Practice
Students will now have hands-on practice partnering to individually apply different taping
and wrapping techniques on each other covering injuries addressed in this course under
instructor guidance and feedback.
Case 1 – A collegiate lacrosse player sustains an ankle inversion sprain. Apply standard
ankle taping.
Assessment: Student correctly applies prewrap, heel/toe pads and the foundational ankle
taping technique—including plantarflexion strap, inferior stirrup taps and figure-8
components—to support the injured ankle. Tension is appropriate and all components are
smoothly applied meeting course standards.
Case 2 – A recreational runner experiences lateral knee pain on trails. Apply basic knee
sleeve bracing.
Assessment: The knee sleeve bracing is smoothly applied with proper tensioning centered
over the patella tendon providing good proprioceptive feedback without compromising
knee motion for this case. Application meets expectations.
Case 3 – A high school baseball pitcher has shoulder pain aggravating activity. Apply
supportive shoulder taping.
Assessment: The shoulder taping is correctly applied with rigid tape figure-8s and circular
reinforcements appropriately tensioned to compress the painful impingement point under
the acromion and stabilize the glenohumeral joint. Padding is correctly positioned and
taping smoothly applied per demonstration standards.
Conclusion
Thank you for the opportunity to practice and demonstrate important taping and wrapping
techniques. Developing proficiency in stabilizing techniques for common sports injuries
strengthens clinical skills and promotes best practices in injury management. Ongoing
practice applying varied techniques to mock patient case studies optimizes preparedness
to confidently Brace real-world acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions.
Introduction
As athletic trainers, we rely on taping and wrapping to provide support, immobilization, and
protection for injured athletes. These techniques allow athletes to continue competing and
training even when recovering from various musculoskeletal injuries. It is imperative that
we develop mastery over a variety of taping styles so that we can properly apply them in
clinical settings.
This hands-on assignment will provide opportunities to practice foundational taping and
wrapping methods. Through demonstrations, return demonstrations, and case studies,
students will develop competency in techniques for the ankle, knee, shoulder, wrist/hand
and other body regions. Emphasis will be placed on indications, contraindications,
materials and step-by-step application procedures. The goal is to leave feeling confident
applying evidenced-based taping techniques that optimize injury management.
Section 1: Ankle Taping
Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries seen in sports which puts clinical
competency in ankle taping at a premium. Let’s review proper procedures:
Demonstration: Apply prewrap and heel/toe pads to ensure skin protection and padding.
Use rigid athletic tape (1.5”-2”) starting proximally at the malleoli.
Start with a plantar flexion protective strap by wrapping under the foot and over the malleoli
3 times for added stability.
Next, apply inferior stirrup taps by wrapping around the forefoot behind the malleoli and
crossing under the arch to reinforce the lateral ligaments.
Follow with a figure-8 technique looping around the ankle laterally and medially for further
support of weak ligaments.
Finish with an external buttress component wrapping around the leg above the malleoli for
compression before trimming excess tape.
Check for proper tension, overlap, and skin protection before clearing the athlete to return
to activity appropriately braced. Reapply as needed, usually every 5-7 days.
Return Demonstration: Return demonstration reveals student has successfully mastered
the ankle taping procedure with correctly applied plantarflexion strap, stirrup taps, figure-8,
and external buttress components providing uniform compression across the ankle joint.
The taping technique was smoothly performed in under 10 minutes with no skin
compromise from the rigid tape.
Discussion: Routine ankle taping improves joint position sense and proprioception which
in turn decreases reinjury risk during rehabilitation. Developing craft with this common
injury prevents time lost for athletes in recovery. Ongoing practice ensures competency
with this fundamental taping method.
Section 2: Knee Bracing & Taping
The ACL in particular is vulnerable to reinjury, so protective knee bracing and taping
techniques for stabilizing collateral and cruciate ligaments are important clinical skills:
Demonstration: For an ACL injury in need of light bracing during rehab, apply a prewrap and
then a basic knee sleeve or band wrapped around the patella tendon. The compressive
sleeve provides proprioceptive feedback without limiting motion.
For more substantial knee instability, apply rigid tape (2”) starting superior to the patella by
wrapping circumferentially around the knee while applying medial and lateral tension for
stability. Reinforce this hinge taping with additional figure-8 passes around the joint line.
Bracing the collaterals further involves applying vertical medial and lateral heel locks
running from the knee to just below the tibial tubercle. Finish by firmly patting the tape and
checking for proper compression and skin protection.
As needed, reinforce existing bracing with athletic tape application focusing on specific
ligament deficiencies identified during knee exams. Monitor for proper fit, tension and skin
issues with bracing over time.
Return Demonstration: Student accurately performs knee taping utilizing the figure-8,
circumferential hinge and heel lock components with even tension across collateral and
cruciate ligament insertions on both sides of the knee. Proper technique was
demonstrated efficiently and without tape overhang or skin compromise.
Discussion: Developing proficiency with taping and bracing techniques for the vulnerable
knee protects healing tissues and progression during rehab. Ongoing practice ensures best
outcomes when stabilizing knee injuries are case specific. Improving efficiency also
optimizes treatment.
Section 3: Shoulder Stabilization
Subacromial impingement and instability are frequent shoulder issues requiring protective
taping:
Demonstration: Begin by applying prewrap and circular shoulder pads placed below and
medial to the acromion. Use rigid tape (1.5”) starting high on the upper arm posteriorly.
Apply figure-of-8 circles around the scapula crossing the medial border to provide
compression medially for impingement symptoms.
Then reinforce with circular passes spiraling down around the humerus providing stability
to the glenohumeral joint.
Finish with a posterior sling crossing the tapes behind the shoulder from back to front
adding further compression to the anterior capsule.
Recheck tension and ensure padding prior to clearing the athlete. Re-tape every 5-7 days or
as skin compromise occurs.
Return Demonstration: The student successfully applies shoulder taping with appropriate
tensioning of figure-8 and circular components to compress the impingement point and
stabilize the glenohumeral joint. Padding is correctly placed and prewrap applied smoothly
without wrinkles or compression of vasculature. Proper taping was performed efficiently.
Discussion: Continued practice applying supportive yet restrictive shoulder taping
methods strengthens skills in managing common shoulder injuries. Refining efficiency
optimizes treatment outcomes through repeat reliable applications meeting individual
patient needs.
Section 4: Wrist & Hand Immobilization
The ultra-mobile wrist and hand require special consideration when stabilizing fractures
and soft tissue injuries:
Demonstration: Clean and pad any bony prominences before applying prewrap for skinned
protection. Use a removable self-adherent wrap starting distally at the fingers and spiraling
circumferentially upwards toward the forearm.
Next, reinforce with overlapping figure-8s spanning between the thenar and hypothenar
eminences for thumb and small finger stability. Ensure intact digital flexion by padding
between each finger.
Finish proximally by applying coban around the forearm for further immobilization while
allowing gentle wrist motion as healing allows. Pad all areas and check motion, sensation
and vascularity before and after application.
Monitor closely for skin compromise from circumferential immobilization and swelling.
Adjust wrappings to prevent further injury as needed.
Return Demonstration: The student correctly padded bony prominences before applying
smoothly overlapping layers from fingertips to forearm with gentle flexion preserved
between each digit. The self-adherent wrap was smoothly applied and reinforced with
figure-8s perfectly spanning thenar to hypothenar areas. Wrist and finger mobility,
sensation and circulation were appropriately checked before and after application meeting
technique standards. Wrapping was performed efficiently in under 15 minutes.
Discussion: Gaining experience stabilizing delicate hand and wrist injuries optimizes
immobilization for healing while allowing safe return to function. Continued practice
refines technique efficiency and individualized modifications meeting patient needs.
Section 5: Hamstring & Thigh Wrapping
Soft tissue injuries of the lower extremity require different stabilization strategies:
Demonstration: Clean and apply prewrap followed by non-elastic self-adherent wrap
starting at the distal thigh just proximal to the knee joint.
Overlap circular layers proximally in a flossing motion isolating the hamstring musculature
during the wrap. Pad behind the knee if intact.
Apply moderate initial tension avoiding excessive pressure distally which may affect
circulation. Monitor close contours and skin compromise as swelling fluctuates.
Re-wrap every 2-3 days during acute healing or as needed based on skin integrity, tension
or swelling changes. Adjust flossing patterns to accommodate specific injury sites.
Return Demonstration: The student applies overlapping concentric wraps smoothly from
knee to hip isolating the hamstrings with gentle but sufficient tensioning. The padding was
correctly placed and wrap smoothed around contours without excessive pressure
proximally or distally. Rechecking for vascularity, sensation and skin compromise was also
appropriately demonstrated meeting proficiency standards.
Discussion: Practicing lower extremity wrapping aids developing judgment to individualize
rigidity levels meeting rehab needs. Refining craft optimizes tissue protection and joint
stability promoting quick returns.
Section 6: Advanced Ankle Bracing
Let’s review options for more serious ankle instability:
Demonstration: For moderate ankle sprains with ligament laxity, reinforce standard ankle
taping with a figure-8 tape brace circumferentially wrapping immediately above and below
the malleoli. Apply rigidity with multiple passes.
For severe injuries, also incorporate an air stirrup brace underneath the tape brace.
Position the plantar shell component under the foot and secure the upright stirrup posts
lateral and medial to the malleoli. Inflate as indicated.
Custom ankle orthoses can provide integrated plastic semi-rigid shells and straps to
maximize immobilization during healing. Carefully measure, apply and adjust the fitting per
orthotist recommendations.
Re-evaluate rigidity as healing allows, substituting taping only once residual laxity resolves
with advanced progressive bracing.
Return Demonstration: The student accurately layers ankle taping applied with a figure-8
brace for added rigidity in a severe inversion sprain case study. Strategies for incorporating
additional air stirrup bracing or custom ankle-foot orthoses were also thoughtfully reviewed
meeting the objective.
Discussion: Understanding progressive bracing options optimizes outcomes for significant
ankle instability beyond basic taping alone. Referencing advanced resources aids clinical
decision making and injury management.
Section 7: Case Study Practice
Students will now have hands-on practice partnering to individually apply different taping
and wrapping techniques on each other covering injuries addressed in this course under
instructor guidance and feedback.
Case 1 – A collegiate lacrosse player sustains an ankle inversion sprain. Apply standard
ankle taping.
Assessment: Student correctly applies prewrap, heel/toe pads and the foundational ankle
taping technique—including plantarflexion strap, inferior stirrup taps and figure-8
components—to support the injured ankle. Tension is appropriate and all components are
smoothly applied meeting course standards.
Case 2 – A recreational runner experiences lateral knee pain on trails. Apply basic knee
sleeve bracing.
Assessment: The knee sleeve bracing is smoothly applied with proper tensioning centered
over the patella tendon providing good proprioceptive feedback without compromising
knee motion for this case. Application meets expectations.
Case 3 – A high school baseball pitcher has shoulder pain aggravating activity. Apply
supportive shoulder taping.
Assessment: The shoulder taping is correctly applied with rigid tape figure-8s and circular
reinforcements appropriately tensioned to compress the painful impingement point under
the acromion and stabilize the glenohumeral joint. Padding is correctly positioned and
taping smoothly applied per demonstration standards.
Conclusion
Thank you for the opportunity to practice and demonstrate important taping and wrapping
techniques. Developing proficiency in stabilizing techniques for common sports injuries
strengthens clinical skills and promotes best practices in injury management. Ongoing
practice applying varied techniques to mock patient case studies optimizes preparedness
to confidently Brace real-world acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions.
Introduction
As athletic trainers, we rely on taping and wrapping to provide support, immobilization, and
protection for injured athletes. These techniques allow athletes to continue competing and
training even when recovering from various musculoskeletal injuries. It is imperative that
we develop mastery over a variety of taping styles so that we can properly apply them in
clinical settings.
This hands-on assignment will provide opportunities to practice foundational taping and
wrapping methods. Through demonstrations, return demonstrations, and case studies,
students will develop competency in techniques for the ankle, knee, shoulder, wrist/hand
and other body regions. Emphasis will be placed on indications, contraindications,
materials and step-by-step application procedures. The goal is to leave feeling confident
applying evidenced-based taping techniques that optimize injury management.
Section 1: Ankle Taping
Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries seen in sports which puts clinical
competency in ankle taping at a premium. Let’s review proper procedures:
Demonstration: Apply prewrap and heel/toe pads to ensure skin protection and padding.
Use rigid athletic tape (1.5”-2”) starting proximally at the malleoli.
Start with a plantar flexion protective strap by wrapping under the foot and over the malleoli
3 times for added stability.
Next, apply inferior stirrup taps by wrapping around the forefoot behind the malleoli and
crossing under the arch to reinforce the lateral ligaments.
Follow with a figure-8 technique looping around the ankle laterally and medially for further
support of weak ligaments.
Finish with an external buttress component wrapping around the leg above the malleoli for
compression before trimming excess tape.
Check for proper tension, overlap, and skin protection before clearing the athlete to return
to activity appropriately braced. Reapply as needed, usually every 5-7 days.
Return Demonstration: Return demonstration reveals student has successfully mastered
the ankle taping procedure with correctly applied plantarflexion strap, stirrup taps, figure-8,
and external buttress components providing uniform compression across the ankle joint.
The taping technique was smoothly performed in under 10 minutes with no skin
compromise from the rigid tape.
Discussion: Routine ankle taping improves joint position sense and proprioception which
in turn decreases reinjury risk during rehabilitation. Developing craft with this common
injury prevents time lost for athletes in recovery. Ongoing practice ensures competency
with this fundamental taping method.
Section 2: Knee Bracing & Taping
The ACL in particular is vulnerable to reinjury, so protective knee bracing and taping
techniques for stabilizing collateral and cruciate ligaments are important clinical skills:
Demonstration: For an ACL injury in need of light bracing during rehab, apply a prewrap and
then a basic knee sleeve or band wrapped around the patella tendon. The compressive
sleeve provides proprioceptive feedback without limiting motion.
For more substantial knee instability, apply rigid tape (2”) starting superior to the patella by
wrapping circumferentially around the knee while applying medial and lateral tension for
stability. Reinforce this hinge taping with additional figure-8 passes around the joint line.
Bracing the collaterals further involves applying vertical medial and lateral heel locks
running from the knee to just below the tibial tubercle. Finish by firmly patting the tape and
checking for proper compression and skin protection.
As needed, reinforce existing bracing with athletic tape application focusing on specific
ligament deficiencies identified during knee exams. Monitor for proper fit, tension and skin
issues with bracing over time.
Return Demonstration: Student accurately performs knee taping utilizing the figure-8,
circumferential hinge and heel lock components with even tension across collateral and
cruciate ligament insertions on both sides of the knee. Proper technique was
demonstrated efficiently and without tape overhang or skin compromise.
Discussion: Developing proficiency with taping and bracing techniques for the vulnerable
knee protects healing tissues and progression during rehab. Ongoing practice ensures best
outcomes when stabilizing knee injuries are case specific. Improving efficiency also
optimizes treatment.
Section 3: Shoulder Stabilization
Subacromial impingement and instability are frequent shoulder issues requiring protective
taping:
Demonstration: Begin by applying prewrap and circular shoulder pads placed below and
medial to the acromion. Use rigid tape (1.5”) starting high on the upper arm posteriorly.
Apply figure-of-8 circles around the scapula crossing the medial border to provide
compression medially for impingement symptoms.
Then reinforce with circular passes spiraling down around the humerus providing stability
to the glenohumeral joint.
Finish with a posterior sling crossing the tapes behind the shoulder from back to front
adding further compression to the anterior capsule.
Recheck tension and ensure padding prior to clearing the athlete. Re-tape every 5-7 days or
as skin compromise occurs.
Return Demonstration: The student successfully applies shoulder taping with appropriate
tensioning of figure-8 and circular components to compress the impingement point and
stabilize the glenohumeral joint. Padding is correctly placed and prewrap applied smoothly
without wrinkles or compression of vasculature. Proper taping was performed efficiently.
Discussion: Continued practice applying supportive yet restrictive shoulder taping
methods strengthens skills in managing common shoulder injuries. Refining efficiency
optimizes treatment outcomes through repeat reliable applications meeting individual
patient needs.
Section 4: Wrist & Hand Immobilization
The ultra-mobile wrist and hand require special consideration when stabilizing fractures
and soft tissue injuries:
Demonstration: Clean and pad any bony prominences before applying prewrap for skinned
protection. Use a removable self-adherent wrap starting distally at the fingers and spiraling
circumferentially upwards toward the forearm.
Next, reinforce with overlapping figure-8s spanning between the thenar and hypothenar
eminences for thumb and small finger stability. Ensure intact digital flexion by padding
between each finger.
Finish proximally by applying coban around the forearm for further immobilization while
allowing gentle wrist motion as healing allows. Pad all areas and check motion, sensation
and vascularity before and after application.
Monitor closely for skin compromise from circumferential immobilization and swelling.
Adjust wrappings to prevent further injury as needed.
Return Demonstration: The student correctly padded bony prominences before applying
smoothly overlapping layers from fingertips to forearm with gentle flexion preserved
between each digit. The self-adherent wrap was smoothly applied and reinforced with
figure-8s perfectly spanning thenar to hypothenar areas. Wrist and finger mobility,
sensation and circulation were appropriately checked before and after application meeting
technique standards. Wrapping was performed efficiently in under 15 minutes.
Discussion: Gaining experience stabilizing delicate hand and wrist injuries optimizes
immobilization for healing while allowing safe return to function. Continued practice
refines technique efficiency and individualized modifications meeting patient needs.
Section 5: Hamstring & Thigh Wrapping
Soft tissue injuries of the lower extremity require different stabilization strategies:
Demonstration: Clean and apply prewrap followed by non-elastic self-adherent wrap
starting at the distal thigh just proximal to the knee joint.
Overlap circular layers proximally in a flossing motion isolating the hamstring musculature
during the wrap. Pad behind the knee if intact.
Apply moderate initial tension avoiding excessive pressure distally which may affect
circulation. Monitor close contours and skin compromise as swelling fluctuates.
Re-wrap every 2-3 days during acute healing or as needed based on skin integrity, tension
or swelling changes. Adjust flossing patterns to accommodate specific injury sites.
Return Demonstration: The student applies overlapping concentric wraps smoothly from
knee to hip isolating the hamstrings with gentle but sufficient tensioning. The padding was
correctly placed and wrap smoothed around contours without excessive pressure
proximally or distally. Rechecking for vascularity, sensation and skin compromise was also
appropriately demonstrated meeting proficiency standards.
Discussion: Practicing lower extremity wrapping aids developing judgment to individualize
rigidity levels meeting rehab needs. Refining craft optimizes tissue protection and joint
stability promoting quick returns.
Section 6: Advanced Ankle Bracing
Let’s review options for more serious ankle instability:
Demonstration: For moderate ankle sprains with ligament laxity, reinforce standard ankle
taping with a figure-8 tape brace circumferentially wrapping immediately above and below
the malleoli. Apply rigidity with multiple passes.
For severe injuries, also incorporate an air stirrup brace underneath the tape brace.
Position the plantar shell component under the foot and secure the upright stirrup posts
lateral and medial to the malleoli. Inflate as indicated.
Custom ankle orthoses can provide integrated plastic semi-rigid shells and straps to
maximize immobilization during healing. Carefully measure, apply and adjust the fitting per
orthotist recommendations.
Re-evaluate rigidity as healing allows, substituting taping only once residual laxity resolves
with advanced progressive bracing.
Return Demonstration: The student accurately layers ankle taping applied with a figure-8
brace for added rigidity in a severe inversion sprain case study. Strategies for incorporating
additional air stirrup bracing or custom ankle-foot orthoses were also thoughtfully reviewed
meeting the objective.
Discussion: Understanding progressive bracing options optimizes outcomes for significant
ankle instability beyond basic taping alone. Referencing advanced resources aids clinical
decision making and injury management.
Section 7: Case Study Practice
Students will now have hands-on practice partnering to individually apply different taping
and wrapping techniques on each other covering injuries addressed in this course under
instructor guidance and feedback.
Case 1 – A collegiate lacrosse player sustains an ankle inversion sprain. Apply standard
ankle taping.
Assessment: Student correctly applies prewrap, heel/toe pads and the foundational ankle
taping technique—including plantarflexion strap, inferior stirrup taps and figure-8
components—to support the injured ankle. Tension is appropriate and all components are
smoothly applied meeting course standards.
Case 2 – A recreational runner experiences lateral knee pain on trails. Apply basic knee
sleeve bracing.
Assessment: The knee sleeve bracing is smoothly applied with proper tensioning centered
over the patella tendon providing good proprioceptive feedback without compromising
knee motion for this case. Application meets expectations.
Case 3 – A high school baseball pitcher has shoulder pain aggravating activity. Apply
supportive shoulder taping.
Assessment: The shoulder taping is correctly applied with rigid tape figure-8s and circular
reinforcements appropriately tensioned to compress the painful impingement point under
the acromion and stabilize the glenohumeral joint. Padding is correctly positioned and
taping smoothly applied per demonstration standards.
Conclusion
Thank you for the opportunity to practice and demonstrate important taping and wrapping
techniques. Developing proficiency in stabilizing techniques for common sports injuries
strengthens clinical skills and promotes best practices in injury management. Ongoing
practice applying varied techniques to mock patient case studies optimizes preparedness
to confidently Brace real-world acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions.
Introduction
As athletic trainers, we rely on taping and wrapping to provide support, immobilization, and
protection for injured athletes. These techniques allow athletes to continue competing and
training even when recovering from various musculoskeletal injuries. It is imperative that
we develop mastery over a variety of taping styles so that we can properly apply them in
clinical settings.
This hands-on assignment will provide opportunities to practice foundational taping and
wrapping methods. Through demonstrations, return demonstrations, and case studies,
students will develop competency in techniques for the ankle, knee, shoulder, wrist/hand
and other body regions. Emphasis will be placed on indications, contraindications,
materials and step-by-step application procedures. The goal is to leave feeling confident
applying evidenced-based taping techniques that optimize injury management.
Section 1: Ankle Taping
Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries seen in sports which puts clinical
competency in ankle taping at a premium. Let’s review proper procedures:
Demonstration: Apply prewrap and heel/toe pads to ensure skin protection and padding.
Use rigid athletic tape (1.5”-2”) starting proximally at the malleoli.
Start with a plantar flexion protective strap by wrapping under the foot and over the malleoli
3 times for added stability.
Next, apply inferior stirrup taps by wrapping around the forefoot behind the malleoli and
crossing under the arch to reinforce the lateral ligaments.
Follow with a figure-8 technique looping around the ankle laterally and medially for further
support of weak ligaments.
Finish with an external buttress component wrapping around the leg above the malleoli for
compression before trimming excess tape.
Check for proper tension, overlap, and skin protection before clearing the athlete to return
to activity appropriately braced. Reapply as needed, usually every 5-7 days.
Return Demonstration: Return demonstration reveals student has successfully mastered
the ankle taping procedure with correctly applied plantarflexion strap, stirrup taps, figure-8,
and external buttress components providing uniform compression across the ankle joint.
The taping technique was smoothly performed in under 10 minutes with no skin
compromise from the rigid tape.
Discussion: Routine ankle taping improves joint position sense and proprioception which
in turn decreases reinjury risk during rehabilitation. Developing craft with this common
injury prevents time lost for athletes in recovery. Ongoing practice ensures competency
with this fundamental taping method.
Section 2: Knee Bracing & Taping
The ACL in particular is vulnerable to reinjury, so protective knee bracing and taping
techniques for stabilizing collateral and cruciate ligaments are important clinical skills:
Demonstration: For an ACL injury in need of light bracing during rehab, apply a prewrap and
then a basic knee sleeve or band wrapped around the patella tendon. The compressive
sleeve provides proprioceptive feedback without limiting motion.
For more substantial knee instability, apply rigid tape (2”) starting superior to the patella by
wrapping circumferentially around the knee while applying medial and lateral tension for
stability. Reinforce this hinge taping with additional figure-8 passes around the joint line.
Bracing the collaterals further involves applying vertical medial and lateral heel locks
running from the knee to just below the tibial tubercle. Finish by firmly patting the tape and
checking for proper compression and skin protection.
As needed, reinforce existing bracing with athletic tape application focusing on specific
ligament deficiencies identified during knee exams. Monitor for proper fit, tension and skin
issues with bracing over time.
Return Demonstration: Student accurately performs knee taping utilizing the figure-8,
circumferential hinge and heel lock components with even tension across collateral and
cruciate ligament insertions on both sides of the knee. Proper technique was
demonstrated efficiently and without tape overhang or skin compromise.
Discussion: Developing proficiency with taping and bracing techniques for the vulnerable
knee protects healing tissues and progression during rehab. Ongoing practice ensures best
outcomes when stabilizing knee injuries are case specific. Improving efficiency also
optimizes treatment.
Section 3: Shoulder Stabilization
Subacromial impingement and instability are frequent shoulder issues requiring protective
taping:
Demonstration: Begin by applying prewrap and circular shoulder pads placed below and
medial to the acromion. Use rigid tape (1.5”) starting high on the upper arm posteriorly.
Apply figure-of-8 circles around the scapula crossing the medial border to provide
compression medially for impingement symptoms.
Then reinforce with circular passes spiraling down around the humerus providing stability
to the glenohumeral joint.
Finish with a posterior sling crossing the tapes behind the shoulder from back to front
adding further compression to the anterior capsule.
Recheck tension and ensure padding prior to clearing the athlete. Re-tape every 5-7 days or
as skin compromise occurs.
Return Demonstration: The student successfully applies shoulder taping with appropriate
tensioning of figure-8 and circular components to compress the impingement point and
stabilize the glenohumeral joint. Padding is correctly placed and prewrap applied smoothly
without wrinkles or compression of vasculature. Proper taping was performed efficiently.
Discussion: Continued practice applying supportive yet restrictive shoulder taping
methods strengthens skills in managing common shoulder injuries. Refining efficiency
optimizes treatment outcomes through repeat reliable applications meeting individual
patient needs.
Section 4: Wrist & Hand Immobilization
The ultra-mobile wrist and hand require special consideration when stabilizing fractures
and soft tissue injuries:
Demonstration: Clean and pad any bony prominences before applying prewrap for skinned
protection. Use a removable self-adherent wrap starting distally at the fingers and spiraling
circumferentially upwards toward the forearm.
Next, reinforce with overlapping figure-8s spanning between the thenar and hypothenar
eminences for thumb and small finger stability. Ensure intact digital flexion by padding
between each finger.
Finish proximally by applying coban around the forearm for further immobilization while
allowing gentle wrist motion as healing allows. Pad all areas and check motion, sensation
and vascularity before and after application.
Monitor closely for skin compromise from circumferential immobilization and swelling.
Adjust wrappings to prevent further injury as needed.
Return Demonstration: The student correctly padded bony prominences before applying
smoothly overlapping layers from fingertips to forearm with gentle flexion preserved
between each digit. The self-adherent wrap was smoothly applied and reinforced with
figure-8s perfectly spanning thenar to hypothenar areas. Wrist and finger mobility,
sensation and circulation were appropriately checked before and after application meeting
technique standards. Wrapping was performed efficiently in under 15 minutes.
Discussion: Gaining experience stabilizing delicate hand and wrist injuries optimizes
immobilization for healing while allowing safe return to function. Continued practice
refines technique efficiency and individualized modifications meeting patient needs.
Section 5: Hamstring & Thigh Wrapping
Soft tissue injuries of the lower extremity require different stabilization strategies:
Demonstration: Clean and apply prewrap followed by non-elastic self-adherent wrap
starting at the distal thigh just proximal to the knee joint.
Overlap circular layers proximally in a flossing motion isolating the hamstring musculature
during the wrap. Pad behind the knee if intact.
Apply moderate initial tension avoiding excessive pressure distally which may affect
circulation. Monitor close contours and skin compromise as swelling fluctuates.
Re-wrap every 2-3 days during acute healing or as needed based on skin integrity, tension
or swelling changes. Adjust flossing patterns to accommodate specific injury sites.
Return Demonstration: The student applies overlapping concentric wraps smoothly from
knee to hip isolating the hamstrings with gentle but sufficient tensioning. The padding was
correctly placed and wrap smoothed around contours without excessive pressure
proximally or distally. Rechecking for vascularity, sensation and skin compromise was also
appropriately demonstrated meeting proficiency standards.
Discussion: Practicing lower extremity wrapping aids developing judgment to individualize
rigidity levels meeting rehab needs. Refining craft optimizes tissue protection and joint
stability promoting quick returns.
Section 6: Advanced Ankle Bracing
Let’s review options for more serious ankle instability:
Demonstration: For moderate ankle sprains with ligament laxity, reinforce standard ankle
taping with a figure-8 tape brace circumferentially wrapping immediately above and below
the malleoli. Apply rigidity with multiple passes.
For severe injuries, also incorporate an air stirrup brace underneath the tape brace.
Position the plantar shell component under the foot and secure the upright stirrup posts
lateral and medial to the malleoli. Inflate as indicated.
Custom ankle orthoses can provide integrated plastic semi-rigid shells and straps to
maximize immobilization during healing. Carefully measure, apply and adjust the fitting per
orthotist recommendations.
Re-evaluate rigidity as healing allows, substituting taping only once residual laxity resolves
with advanced progressive bracing.
Return Demonstration: The student accurately layers ankle taping applied with a figure-8
brace for added rigidity in a severe inversion sprain case study. Strategies for incorporating
additional air stirrup bracing or custom ankle-foot orthoses were also thoughtfully reviewed
meeting the objective.
Discussion: Understanding progressive bracing options optimizes outcomes for significant
ankle instability beyond basic taping alone. Referencing advanced resources aids clinical
decision making and injury management.
Section 7: Case Study Practice
Students will now have hands-on practice partnering to individually apply different taping
and wrapping techniques on each other covering injuries addressed in this course under
instructor guidance and feedback.
Case 1 – A collegiate lacrosse player sustains an ankle inversion sprain. Apply standard
ankle taping.
Assessment: Student correctly applies prewrap, heel/toe pads and the foundational ankle
taping technique—including plantarflexion strap, inferior stirrup taps and figure-8
components—to support the injured ankle. Tension is appropriate and all components are
smoothly applied meeting course standards.
Case 2 – A recreational runner experiences lateral knee pain on trails. Apply basic knee
sleeve bracing.
Assessment: The knee sleeve bracing is smoothly applied with proper tensioning centered
over the patella tendon providing good proprioceptive feedback without compromising
knee motion for this case. Application meets expectations.
Case 3 – A high school baseball pitcher has shoulder pain aggravating activity. Apply
supportive shoulder taping.
Assessment: The shoulder taping is correctly applied with rigid tape figure-8s and circular
reinforcements appropriately tensioned to compress the painful impingement point under
the acromion and stabilize the glenohumeral joint. Padding is correctly positioned and
taping smoothly applied per demonstration standards.
Conclusion
Thank you for the opportunity to practice and demonstrate important taping and wrapping
techniques. Developing proficiency in stabilizing techniques for common sports injuries
strengthens clinical skills and promotes best practices in injury management. Ongoing
practice applying varied techniques to mock patient case studies optimizes preparedness
to confidently Brace real-world acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions.
Introduction
As athletic trainers, we rely on taping and wrapping to provide support, immobilization, and
protection for injured athletes. These techniques allow athletes to continue competing and
training even when recovering from various musculoskeletal injuries. It is imperative that
we develop mastery over a variety of taping styles so that we can properly apply them in
clinical settings.
This hands-on assignment will provide opportunities to practice foundational taping and
wrapping methods. Through demonstrations, return demonstrations, and case studies,
students will develop competency in techniques for the ankle, knee, shoulder, wrist/hand
and other body regions. Emphasis will be placed on indications, contraindications,
materials and step-by-step application procedures. The goal is to leave feeling confident
applying evidenced-based taping techniques that optimize injury management.
Section 1: Ankle Taping
Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries seen in sports which puts clinical
competency in ankle taping at a premium. Let’s review proper procedures:
Demonstration: Apply prewrap and heel/toe pads to ensure skin protection and padding.
Use rigid athletic tape (1.5”-2”) starting proximally at the malleoli.
Start with a plantar flexion protective strap by wrapping under the foot and over the malleoli
3 times for added stability.
Next, apply inferior stirrup taps by wrapping around the forefoot behind the malleoli and
crossing under the arch to reinforce the lateral ligaments.
Follow with a figure-8 technique looping around the ankle laterally and medially for further
support of weak ligaments.
Finish with an external buttress component wrapping around the leg above the malleoli for
compression before trimming excess tape.
Check for proper tension, overlap, and skin protection before clearing the athlete to return
to activity appropriately braced. Reapply as needed, usually every 5-7 days.
Return Demonstration: Return demonstration reveals student has successfully mastered
the ankle taping procedure with correctly applied plantarflexion strap, stirrup taps, figure-8,
and external buttress components providing uniform compression across the ankle joint.
The taping technique was smoothly performed in under 10 minutes with no skin
compromise from the rigid tape.
Discussion: Routine ankle taping improves joint position sense and proprioception which
in turn decreases reinjury risk during rehabilitation. Developing craft with this common
injury prevents time lost for athletes in recovery. Ongoing practice ensures competency
with this fundamental taping method.
Section 2: Knee Bracing & Taping
The ACL in particular is vulnerable to reinjury, so protective knee bracing and taping
techniques for stabilizing collateral and cruciate ligaments are important clinical skills:
Demonstration: For an ACL injury in need of light bracing during rehab, apply a prewrap and
then a basic knee sleeve or band wrapped around the patella tendon. The compressive
sleeve provides proprioceptive feedback without limiting motion.
For more substantial knee instability, apply rigid tape (2”) starting superior to the patella by
wrapping circumferentially around the knee while applying medial and lateral tension for
stability. Reinforce this hinge taping with additional figure-8 passes around the joint line.
Bracing the collaterals further involves applying vertical medial and lateral heel locks
running from the knee to just below the tibial tubercle. Finish by firmly patting the tape and
checking for proper compression and skin protection.
As needed, reinforce existing bracing with athletic tape application focusing on specific
ligament deficiencies identified during knee exams. Monitor for proper fit, tension and skin
issues with bracing over time.
Return Demonstration: Student accurately performs knee taping utilizing the figure-8,
circumferential hinge and heel lock components with even tension across collateral and
cruciate ligament insertions on both sides of the knee. Proper technique was
demonstrated efficiently and without tape overhang or skin compromise.
Discussion: Developing proficiency with taping and bracing techniques for the vulnerable
knee protects healing tissues and progression during rehab. Ongoing practice ensures best
outcomes when stabilizing knee injuries are case specific. Improving efficiency also
optimizes treatment.
Section 3: Shoulder Stabilization
Subacromial impingement and instability are frequent shoulder issues requiring protective
taping:
Demonstration: Begin by applying prewrap and circular shoulder pads placed below and
medial to the acromion. Use rigid tape (1.5”) starting high on the upper arm posteriorly.
Apply figure-of-8 circles around the scapula crossing the medial border to provide
compression medially for impingement symptoms.
Then reinforce with circular passes spiraling down around the humerus providing stability
to the glenohumeral joint.
Finish with a posterior sling crossing the tapes behind the shoulder from back to front
adding further compression to the anterior capsule.
Recheck tension and ensure padding prior to clearing the athlete. Re-tape every 5-7 days or
as skin compromise occurs.
Return Demonstration: The student successfully applies shoulder taping with appropriate
tensioning of figure-8 and circular components to compress the impingement point and
stabilize the glenohumeral joint. Padding is correctly placed and prewrap applied smoothly
without wrinkles or compression of vasculature. Proper taping was performed efficiently.
Discussion: Continued practice applying supportive yet restrictive shoulder taping
methods strengthens skills in managing common shoulder injuries. Refining efficiency
optimizes treatment outcomes through repeat reliable applications meeting individual
patient needs.
Section 4: Wrist & Hand Immobilization
The ultra-mobile wrist and hand require special consideration when stabilizing fractures
and soft tissue injuries:
Demonstration: Clean and pad any bony prominences before applying prewrap for skinned
protection. Use a removable self-adherent wrap starting distally at the fingers and spiraling
circumferentially upwards toward the forearm.
Next, reinforce with overlapping figure-8s spanning between the thenar and hypothenar
eminences for thumb and small finger stability. Ensure intact digital flexion by padding
between each finger.
Finish proximally by applying coban around the forearm for further immobilization while
allowing gentle wrist motion as healing allows. Pad all areas and check motion, sensation
and vascularity before and after application.
Monitor closely for skin compromise from circumferential immobilization and swelling.
Adjust wrappings to prevent further injury as needed.
Return Demonstration: The student correctly padded bony prominences before applying
smoothly overlapping layers from fingertips to forearm with gentle flexion preserved
between each digit. The self-adherent wrap was smoothly applied and reinforced with
figure-8s perfectly spanning thenar to hypothenar areas. Wrist and finger mobility,
sensation and circulation were appropriately checked before and after application meeting
technique standards. Wrapping was performed efficiently in under 15 minutes.
Discussion: Gaining experience stabilizing delicate hand and wrist injuries optimizes
immobilization for healing while allowing safe return to function. Continued practice
refines technique efficiency and individualized modifications meeting patient needs.
Section 5: Hamstring & Thigh Wrapping
Soft tissue injuries of the lower extremity require different stabilization strategies:
Demonstration: Clean and apply prewrap followed by non-elastic self-adherent wrap
starting at the distal thigh just proximal to the knee joint.
Overlap circular layers proximally in a flossing motion isolating the hamstring musculature
during the wrap. Pad behind the knee if intact.
Apply moderate initial tension avoiding excessive pressure distally which may affect
circulation. Monitor close contours and skin compromise as swelling fluctuates.
Re-wrap every 2-3 days during acute healing or as needed based on skin integrity, tension
or swelling changes. Adjust flossing patterns to accommodate specific injury sites.
Return Demonstration: The student applies overlapping concentric wraps smoothly from
knee to hip isolating the hamstrings with gentle but sufficient tensioning. The padding was
correctly placed and wrap smoothed around contours without excessive pressure
proximally or distally. Rechecking for vascularity, sensation and skin compromise was also
appropriately demonstrated meeting proficiency standards.
Discussion: Practicing lower extremity wrapping aids developing judgment to individualize
rigidity levels meeting rehab needs. Refining craft optimizes tissue protection and joint
stability promoting quick returns.
Section 6: Advanced Ankle Bracing
Let’s review options for more serious ankle instability:
Demonstration: For moderate ankle sprains with ligament laxity, reinforce standard ankle
taping with a figure-8 tape brace circumferentially wrapping immediately above and below
the malleoli. Apply rigidity with multiple passes.
For severe injuries, also incorporate an air stirrup brace underneath the tape brace.
Position the plantar shell component under the foot and secure the upright stirrup posts
lateral and medial to the malleoli. Inflate as indicated.
Custom ankle orthoses can provide integrated plastic semi-rigid shells and straps to
maximize immobilization during healing. Carefully measure, apply and adjust the fitting per
orthotist recommendations.
Re-evaluate rigidity as healing allows, substituting taping only once residual laxity resolves
with advanced progressive bracing.
Return Demonstration: The student accurately layers ankle taping applied with a figure-8
brace for added rigidity in a severe inversion sprain case study. Strategies for incorporating
additional air stirrup bracing or custom ankle-foot orthoses were also thoughtfully reviewed
meeting the objective.
Discussion: Understanding progressive bracing options optimizes outcomes for significant
ankle instability beyond basic taping alone. Referencing advanced resources aids clinical
decision making and injury management.
Section 7: Case Study Practice
Students will now have hands-on practice partnering to individually apply different taping
and wrapping techniques on each other covering injuries addressed in this course under
instructor guidance and feedback.
Case 1 – A collegiate lacrosse player sustains an ankle inversion sprain. Apply standard
ankle taping.
Assessment: Student correctly applies prewrap, heel/toe pads and the foundational ankle
taping technique—including plantarflexion strap, inferior stirrup taps and figure-8
components—to support the injured ankle. Tension is appropriate and all components are
smoothly applied meeting course standards.
Case 2 – A recreational runner experiences lateral knee pain on trails. Apply basic knee
sleeve bracing.
Assessment: The knee sleeve bracing is smoothly applied with proper tensioning centered
over the patella tendon providing good proprioceptive feedback without compromising
knee motion for this case. Application meets expectations.
Case 3 – A high school baseball pitcher has shoulder pain aggravating activity. Apply
supportive shoulder taping.
Assessment: The shoulder taping is correctly applied with rigid tape figure-8s and circular
reinforcements appropriately tensioned to compress the painful impingement point under
the acromion and stabilize the glenohumeral joint. Padding is correctly positioned and
taping smoothly applied per demonstration standards.
Conclusion
Thank you for the opportunity to practice and demonstrate important taping and wrapping
techniques. Developing proficiency in stabilizing techniques for common sports injuries
strengthens clinical skills and promotes best practices in injury management. Ongoing
practice applying varied techniques to mock patient case studies optimizes preparedness
to confidently Brace real-world acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions.
Introduction
As athletic trainers, we rely on taping and wrapping to provide support, immobilization, and
protection for injured athletes. These techniques allow athletes to continue competing and
training even when recovering from various musculoskeletal injuries. It is imperative that
we develop mastery over a variety of taping styles so that we can properly apply them in
clinical settings.
This hands-on assignment will provide opportunities to practice foundational taping and
wrapping methods. Through demonstrations, return demonstrations, and case studies,
students will develop competency in techniques for the ankle, knee, shoulder, wrist/hand
and other body regions. Emphasis will be placed on indications, contraindications,
materials and step-by-step application procedures. The goal is to leave feeling confident
applying evidenced-based taping techniques that optimize injury management.
Section 1: Ankle Taping
Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries seen in sports which puts clinical
competency in ankle taping at a premium. Let’s review proper procedures:
Demonstration: Apply prewrap and heel/toe pads to ensure skin protection and padding.
Use rigid athletic tape (1.5”-2”) starting proximally at the malleoli.
Start with a plantar flexion protective strap by wrapping under the foot and over the malleoli
3 times for added stability.
Next, apply inferior stirrup taps by wrapping around the forefoot behind the malleoli and
crossing under the arch to reinforce the lateral ligaments.
Follow with a figure-8 technique looping around the ankle laterally and medially for further
support of weak ligaments.
Finish with an external buttress component wrapping around the leg above the malleoli for
compression before trimming excess tape.
Check for proper tension, overlap, and skin protection before clearing the athlete to return
to activity appropriately braced. Reapply as needed, usually every 5-7 days.
Return Demonstration: Return demonstration reveals student has successfully mastered
the ankle taping procedure with correctly applied plantarflexion strap, stirrup taps, figure-8,
and external buttress components providing uniform compression across the ankle joint.
The taping technique was smoothly performed in under 10 minutes with no skin
compromise from the rigid tape.
Discussion: Routine ankle taping improves joint position sense and proprioception which
in turn decreases reinjury risk during rehabilitation. Developing craft with this common
injury prevents time lost for athletes in recovery. Ongoing practice ensures competency
with this fundamental taping method.
Section 2: Knee Bracing & Taping
The ACL in particular is vulnerable to reinjury, so protective knee bracing and taping
techniques for stabilizing collateral and cruciate ligaments are important clinical skills:
Demonstration: For an ACL injury in need of light bracing during rehab, apply a prewrap and
then a basic knee sleeve or band wrapped around the patella tendon. The compressive
sleeve provides proprioceptive feedback without limiting motion.
For more substantial knee instability, apply rigid tape (2”) starting superior to the patella by
wrapping circumferentially around the knee while applying medial and lateral tension for
stability. Reinforce this hinge taping with additional figure-8 passes around the joint line.
Bracing the collaterals further involves applying vertical medial and lateral heel locks
running from the knee to just below the tibial tubercle. Finish by firmly patting the tape and
checking for proper compression and skin protection.
As needed, reinforce existing bracing with athletic tape application focusing on specific
ligament deficiencies identified during knee exams. Monitor for proper fit, tension and skin
issues with bracing over time.
Return Demonstration: Student accurately performs knee taping utilizing the figure-8,
circumferential hinge and heel lock components with even tension across collateral and
cruciate ligament insertions on both sides of the knee. Proper technique was
demonstrated efficiently and without tape overhang or skin compromise.
Discussion: Developing proficiency with taping and bracing techniques for the vulnerable
knee protects healing tissues and progression during rehab. Ongoing practice ensures best
outcomes when stabilizing knee injuries are case specific. Improving efficiency also
optimizes treatment.
Section 3: Shoulder Stabilization
Subacromial impingement and instability are frequent shoulder issues requiring protective
taping:
Demonstration: Begin by applying prewrap and circular shoulder pads placed below and
medial to the acromion. Use rigid tape (1.5”) starting high on the upper arm posteriorly.
Apply figure-of-8 circles around the scapula crossing the medial border to provide
compression medially for impingement symptoms.
Then reinforce with circular passes spiraling down around the humerus providing stability
to the glenohumeral joint.
Finish with a posterior sling crossing the tapes behind the shoulder from back to front
adding further compression to the anterior capsule.
Recheck tension and ensure padding prior to clearing the athlete. Re-tape every 5-7 days or
as skin compromise occurs.
Return Demonstration: The student successfully applies shoulder taping with appropriate
tensioning of figure-8 and circular components to compress the impingement point and
stabilize the glenohumeral joint. Padding is correctly placed and prewrap applied smoothly
without wrinkles or compression of vasculature. Proper taping was performed efficiently.
Discussion: Continued practice applying supportive yet restrictive shoulder taping
methods strengthens skills in managing common shoulder injuries. Refining efficiency
optimizes treatment outcomes through repeat reliable applications meeting individual
patient needs.
Section 4: Wrist & Hand Immobilization
The ultra-mobile wrist and hand require special consideration when stabilizing fractures
and soft tissue injuries:
Demonstration: Clean and pad any bony prominences before applying prewrap for skinned
protection. Use a removable self-adherent wrap starting distally at the fingers and spiraling
circumferentially upwards toward the forearm.
Next, reinforce with overlapping figure-8s spanning between the thenar and hypothenar
eminences for thumb and small finger stability. Ensure intact digital flexion by padding
between each finger.
Finish proximally by applying coban around the forearm for further immobilization while
allowing gentle wrist motion as healing allows. Pad all areas and check motion, sensation
and vascularity before and after application.
Monitor closely for skin compromise from circumferential immobilization and swelling.
Adjust wrappings to prevent further injury as needed.
Return Demonstration: The student correctly padded bony prominences before applying
smoothly overlapping layers from fingertips to forearm with gentle flexion preserved
between each digit. The self-adherent wrap was smoothly applied and reinforced with
figure-8s perfectly spanning thenar to hypothenar areas. Wrist and finger mobility,
sensation and circulation were appropriately checked before and after application meeting
technique standards. Wrapping was performed efficiently in under 15 minutes.
Discussion: Gaining experience stabilizing delicate hand and wrist injuries optimizes
immobilization for healing while allowing safe return to function. Continued practice
refines technique efficiency and individualized modifications meeting patient needs.
Section 5: Hamstring & Thigh Wrapping
Soft tissue injuries of the lower extremity require different stabilization strategies:
Demonstration: Clean and apply prewrap followed by non-elastic self-adherent wrap
starting at the distal thigh just proximal to the knee joint.
Overlap circular layers proximally in a flossing motion isolating the hamstring musculature
during the wrap. Pad behind the knee if intact.
Apply moderate initial tension avoiding excessive pressure distally which may affect
circulation. Monitor close contours and skin compromise as swelling fluctuates.
Re-wrap every 2-3 days during acute healing or as needed based on skin integrity, tension
or swelling changes. Adjust flossing patterns to accommodate specific injury sites.
Return Demonstration: The student applies overlapping concentric wraps smoothly from
knee to hip isolating the hamstrings with gentle but sufficient tensioning. The padding was
correctly placed and wrap smoothed around contours without excessive pressure
proximally or distally. Rechecking for vascularity, sensation and skin compromise was also
appropriately demonstrated meeting proficiency standards.
Discussion: Practicing lower extremity wrapping aids developing judgment to individualize
rigidity levels meeting rehab needs. Refining craft optimizes tissue protection and joint
stability promoting quick returns.
Section 6: Advanced Ankle Bracing
Let’s review options for more serious ankle instability:
Demonstration: For moderate ankle sprains with ligament laxity, reinforce standard ankle
taping with a figure-8 tape brace circumferentially wrapping immediately above and below
the malleoli. Apply rigidity with multiple passes.
For severe injuries, also incorporate an air stirrup brace underneath the tape brace.
Position the plantar shell component under the foot and secure the upright stirrup posts
lateral and medial to the malleoli. Inflate as indicated.
Custom ankle orthoses can provide integrated plastic semi-rigid shells and straps to
maximize immobilization during healing. Carefully measure, apply and adjust the fitting per
orthotist recommendations.
Re-evaluate rigidity as healing allows, substituting taping only once residual laxity resolves
with advanced progressive bracing.
Return Demonstration: The student accurately layers ankle taping applied with a figure-8
brace for added rigidity in a severe inversion sprain case study. Strategies for incorporating
additional air stirrup bracing or custom ankle-foot orthoses were also thoughtfully reviewed
meeting the objective.
Discussion: Understanding progressive bracing options optimizes outcomes for significant
ankle instability beyond basic taping alone. Referencing advanced resources aids clinical
decision making and injury management.
Section 7: Case Study Practice
Students will now have hands-on practice partnering to individually apply different taping
and wrapping techniques on each other covering injuries addressed in this course under
instructor guidance and feedback.
Case 1 – A collegiate lacrosse player sustains an ankle inversion sprain. Apply standard
ankle taping.
Assessment: Student correctly applies prewrap, heel/toe pads and the foundational ankle
taping technique—including plantarflexion strap, inferior stirrup taps and figure-8
components—to support the injured ankle. Tension is appropriate and all components are
smoothly applied meeting course standards.
Case 2 – A recreational runner experiences lateral knee pain on trails. Apply basic knee
sleeve bracing.
Assessment: The knee sleeve bracing is smoothly applied with proper tensioning centered
over the patella tendon providing good proprioceptive feedback without compromising
knee motion for this case. Application meets expectations.
Case 3 – A high school baseball pitcher has shoulder pain aggravating activity. Apply
supportive shoulder taping.
Assessment: The shoulder taping is correctly applied with rigid tape figure-8s and circular
reinforcements appropriately tensioned to compress the painful impingement point under
the acromion and stabilize the glenohumeral joint. Padding is correctly positioned and
taping smoothly applied per demonstration standards.
Conclusion
Thank you for the opportunity to practice and demonstrate important taping and wrapping
techniques. Developing proficiency in stabilizing techniques for common sports injuries
strengthens clinical skills and promotes best practices in injury management. Ongoing
practice applying varied techniques to mock patient case studies optimizes preparedness
to confidently Brace real-world acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions.
Introduction
As athletic trainers, we rely on taping and wrapping to provide support, immobilization, and
protection for injured athletes. These techniques allow athletes to continue competing and
training even when recovering from various musculoskeletal injuries. It is imperative that
we develop mastery over a variety of taping styles so that we can properly apply them in
clinical settings.
This hands-on assignment will provide opportunities to practice foundational taping and
wrapping methods. Through demonstrations, return demonstrations, and case studies,
students will develop competency in techniques for the ankle, knee, shoulder, wrist/hand
and other body regions. Emphasis will be placed on indications, contraindications,
materials and step-by-step application procedures. The goal is to leave feeling confident
applying evidenced-based taping techniques that optimize injury management.
Section 1: Ankle Taping
Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries seen in sports which puts clinical
competency in ankle taping at a premium. Let’s review proper procedures:
Demonstration: Apply prewrap and heel/toe pads to ensure skin protection and padding.
Use rigid athletic tape (1.5”-2”) starting proximally at the malleoli.
Start with a plantar flexion protective strap by wrapping under the foot and over the malleoli
3 times for added stability.
Next, apply inferior stirrup taps by wrapping around the forefoot behind the malleoli and
crossing under the arch to reinforce the lateral ligaments.
Follow with a figure-8 technique looping around the ankle laterally and medially for further
support of weak ligaments.
Finish with an external buttress component wrapping around the leg above the malleoli for
compression before trimming excess tape.
Check for proper tension, overlap, and skin protection before clearing the athlete to return
to activity appropriately braced. Reapply as needed, usually every 5-7 days.
Return Demonstration: Return demonstration reveals student has successfully mastered
the ankle taping procedure with correctly applied plantarflexion strap, stirrup taps, figure-8,
and external buttress components providing uniform compression across the ankle joint.
The taping technique was smoothly performed in under 10 minutes with no skin
compromise from the rigid tape.
Discussion: Routine ankle taping improves joint position sense and proprioception which
in turn decreases reinjury risk during rehabilitation. Developing craft with this common
injury prevents time lost for athletes in recovery. Ongoing practice ensures competency
with this fundamental taping method.
Section 2: Knee Bracing & Taping
The ACL in particular is vulnerable to reinjury, so protective knee bracing and taping
techniques for stabilizing collateral and cruciate ligaments are important clinical skills:
Demonstration: For an ACL injury in need of light bracing during rehab, apply a prewrap and
then a basic knee sleeve or band wrapped around the patella tendon. The compressive
sleeve provides proprioceptive feedback without limiting motion.
For more substantial knee instability, apply rigid tape (2”) starting superior to the patella by
wrapping circumferentially around the knee while applying medial and lateral tension for
stability. Reinforce this hinge taping with additional figure-8 passes around the joint line.
Bracing the collaterals further involves applying vertical medial and lateral heel locks
running from the knee to just below the tibial tubercle. Finish by firmly patting the tape and
checking for proper compression and skin protection.
As needed, reinforce existing bracing with athletic tape application focusing on specific
ligament deficiencies identified during knee exams. Monitor for proper fit, tension and skin
issues with bracing over time.
Return Demonstration: Student accurately performs knee taping utilizing the figure-8,
circumferential hinge and heel lock components with even tension across collateral and
cruciate ligament insertions on both sides of the knee. Proper technique was
demonstrated efficiently and without tape overhang or skin compromise.
Discussion: Developing proficiency with taping and bracing techniques for the vulnerable
knee protects healing tissues and progression during rehab. Ongoing practice ensures best
outcomes when stabilizing knee injuries are case specific. Improving efficiency also
optimizes treatment.
Section 3: Shoulder Stabilization
Subacromial impingement and instability are frequent shoulder issues requiring protective
taping:
Demonstration: Begin by applying prewrap and circular shoulder pads placed below and
medial to the acromion. Use rigid tape (1.5”) starting high on the upper arm posteriorly.
Apply figure-of-8 circles around the scapula crossing the medial border to provide
compression medially for impingement symptoms.
Then reinforce with circular passes spiraling down around the humerus providing stability
to the glenohumeral joint.
Finish with a posterior sling crossing the tapes behind the shoulder from back to front
adding further compression to the anterior capsule.
Recheck tension and ensure padding prior to clearing the athlete. Re-tape every 5-7 days or
as skin compromise occurs.
Return Demonstration: The student successfully applies shoulder taping with appropriate
tensioning of figure-8 and circular components to compress the impingement point and
stabilize the glenohumeral joint. Padding is correctly placed and prewrap applied smoothly
without wrinkles or compression of vasculature. Proper taping was performed efficiently.
Discussion: Continued practice applying supportive yet restrictive shoulder taping
methods strengthens skills in managing common shoulder injuries. Refining efficiency
optimizes treatment outcomes through repeat reliable applications meeting individual
patient needs.
Section 4: Wrist & Hand Immobilization
The ultra-mobile wrist and hand require special consideration when stabilizing fractures
and soft tissue injuries:
Demonstration: Clean and pad any bony prominences before applying prewrap for skinned
protection. Use a removable self-adherent wrap starting distally at the fingers and spiraling
circumferentially upwards toward the forearm.
Next, reinforce with overlapping figure-8s spanning between the thenar and hypothenar
eminences for thumb and small finger stability. Ensure intact digital flexion by padding
between each finger.
Finish proximally by applying coban around the forearm for further immobilization while
allowing gentle wrist motion as healing allows. Pad all areas and check motion, sensation
and vascularity before and after application.
Monitor closely for skin compromise from circumferential immobilization and swelling.
Adjust wrappings to prevent further injury as needed.
Return Demonstration: The student correctly padded bony prominences before applying
smoothly overlapping layers from fingertips to forearm with gentle flexion preserved
between each digit. The self-adherent wrap was smoothly applied and reinforced with
figure-8s perfectly spanning thenar to hypothenar areas. Wrist and finger mobility,
sensation and circulation were appropriately checked before and after application meeting
technique standards. Wrapping was performed efficiently in under 15 minutes.
Discussion: Gaining experience stabilizing delicate hand and wrist injuries optimizes
immobilization for healing while allowing safe return to function. Continued practice
refines technique efficiency and individualized modifications meeting patient needs.
Section 5: Hamstring & Thigh Wrapping
Soft tissue injuries of the lower extremity require different stabilization strategies:
Demonstration: Clean and apply prewrap followed by non-elastic self-adherent wrap
starting at the distal thigh just proximal to the knee joint.
Overlap circular layers proximally in a flossing motion isolating the hamstring musculature
during the wrap. Pad behind the knee if intact.
Apply moderate initial tension avoiding excessive pressure distally which may affect
circulation. Monitor close contours and skin compromise as swelling fluctuates.
Re-wrap every 2-3 days during acute healing or as needed based on skin integrity, tension
or swelling changes. Adjust flossing patterns to accommodate specific injury sites.
Return Demonstration: The student applies overlapping concentric wraps smoothly from
knee to hip isolating the hamstrings with gentle but sufficient tensioning. The padding was
correctly placed and wrap smoothed around contours without excessive pressure
proximally or distally. Rechecking for vascularity, sensation and skin compromise was also
appropriately demonstrated meeting proficiency standards.
Discussion: Practicing lower extremity wrapping aids developing judgment to individualize
rigidity levels meeting rehab needs. Refining craft optimizes tissue protection and joint
stability promoting quick returns.
Section 6: Advanced Ankle Bracing
Let’s review options for more serious ankle instability:
Demonstration: For moderate ankle sprains with ligament laxity, reinforce standard ankle
taping with a figure-8 tape brace circumferentially wrapping immediately above and below
the malleoli. Apply rigidity with multiple passes.
For severe injuries, also incorporate an air stirrup brace underneath the tape brace.
Position the plantar shell component under the foot and secure the upright stirrup posts
lateral and medial to the malleoli. Inflate as indicated.
Custom ankle orthoses can provide integrated plastic semi-rigid shells and straps to
maximize immobilization during healing. Carefully measure, apply and adjust the fitting per
orthotist recommendations.
Re-evaluate rigidity as healing allows, substituting taping only once residual laxity resolves
with advanced progressive bracing.
Return Demonstration: The student accurately layers ankle taping applied with a figure-8
brace for added rigidity in a severe inversion sprain case study. Strategies for incorporating
additional air stirrup bracing or custom ankle-foot orthoses were also thoughtfully reviewed
meeting the objective.
Discussion: Understanding progressive bracing options optimizes outcomes for significant
ankle instability beyond basic taping alone. Referencing advanced resources aids clinical
decision making and injury management.
Section 7: Case Study Practice
Students will now have hands-on practice partnering to individually apply different taping
and wrapping techniques on each other covering injuries addressed in this course under
instructor guidance and feedback.
Case 1 – A collegiate lacrosse player sustains an ankle inversion sprain. Apply standard
ankle taping.
Assessment: Student correctly applies prewrap, heel/toe pads and the foundational ankle
taping technique—including plantarflexion strap, inferior stirrup taps and figure-8
components—to support the injured ankle. Tension is appropriate and all components are
smoothly applied meeting course standards.
Case 2 – A recreational runner experiences lateral knee pain on trails. Apply basic knee
sleeve bracing.
Assessment: The knee sleeve bracing is smoothly applied with proper tensioning centered
over the patella tendon providing good proprioceptive feedback without compromising
knee motion for this case. Application meets expectations.
Case 3 – A high school baseball pitcher has shoulder pain aggravating activity. Apply
supportive shoulder taping.
Assessment: The shoulder taping is correctly applied with rigid tape figure-8s and circular
reinforcements appropriately tensioned to compress the painful impingement point under
the acromion and stabilize the glenohumeral joint. Padding is correctly positioned and
taping smoothly applied per demonstration standards.
Conclusion
Thank you for the opportunity to practice and demonstrate important taping and wrapping
techniques. Developing proficiency in stabilizing techniques for common sports injuries
strengthens clinical skills and promotes best practices in injury management. Ongoing
practice applying varied techniques to mock patient case studies optimizes preparedness
to confidently Brace real-world acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions.
Introduction
As athletic trainers, we rely on taping and wrapping to provide support, immobilization, and
protection for injured athletes. These techniques allow athletes to continue competing and
training even when recovering from various musculoskeletal injuries. It is imperative that
we develop mastery over a variety of taping styles so that we can properly apply them in
clinical settings.
This hands-on assignment will provide opportunities to practice foundational taping and
wrapping methods. Through demonstrations, return demonstrations, and case studies,
students will develop competency in techniques for the ankle, knee, shoulder, wrist/hand
and other body regions. Emphasis will be placed on indications, contraindications,
materials and step-by-step application procedures. The goal is to leave feeling confident
applying evidenced-based taping techniques that optimize injury management.
Section 1: Ankle Taping
Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries seen in sports which puts clinical
competency in ankle taping at a premium. Let’s review proper procedures:
Demonstration: Apply prewrap and heel/toe pads to ensure skin protection and padding.
Use rigid athletic tape (1.5”-2”) starting proximally at the malleoli.
Start with a plantar flexion protective strap by wrapping under the foot and over the malleoli
3 times for added stability.
Next, apply inferior stirrup taps by wrapping around the forefoot behind the malleoli and
crossing under the arch to reinforce the lateral ligaments.
Follow with a figure-8 technique looping around the ankle laterally and medially for further
support of weak ligaments.
Finish with an external buttress component wrapping around the leg above the malleoli for
compression before trimming excess tape.
Check for proper tension, overlap, and skin protection before clearing the athlete to return
to activity appropriately braced. Reapply as needed, usually every 5-7 days.
Return Demonstration: Return demonstration reveals student has successfully mastered
the ankle taping procedure with correctly applied plantarflexion strap, stirrup taps, figure-8,
and external buttress components providing uniform compression across the ankle joint.
The taping technique was smoothly performed in under 10 minutes with no skin
compromise from the rigid tape.
Discussion: Routine ankle taping improves joint position sense and proprioception which
in turn decreases reinjury risk during rehabilitation. Developing craft with this common
injury prevents time lost for athletes in recovery. Ongoing practice ensures competency
with this fundamental taping method.
Section 2: Knee Bracing & Taping
The ACL in particular is vulnerable to reinjury, so protective knee bracing and taping
techniques for stabilizing collateral and cruciate ligaments are important clinical skills:
Demonstration: For an ACL injury in need of light bracing during rehab, apply a prewrap and
then a basic knee sleeve or band wrapped around the patella tendon. The compressive
sleeve provides proprioceptive feedback without limiting motion.
For more substantial knee instability, apply rigid tape (2”) starting superior to the patella by
wrapping circumferentially around the knee while applying medial and lateral tension for
stability. Reinforce this hinge taping with additional figure-8 passes around the joint line.
Bracing the collaterals further involves applying vertical medial and lateral heel locks
running from the knee to just below the tibial tubercle. Finish by firmly patting the tape and
checking for proper compression and skin protection.
As needed, reinforce existing bracing with athletic tape application focusing on specific
ligament deficiencies identified during knee exams. Monitor for proper fit, tension and skin
issues with bracing over time.
Return Demonstration: Student accurately performs knee taping utilizing the figure-8,
circumferential hinge and heel lock components with even tension across collateral and
cruciate ligament insertions on both sides of the knee. Proper technique was
demonstrated efficiently and without tape overhang or skin compromise.
Discussion: Developing proficiency with taping and bracing techniques for the vulnerable
knee protects healing tissues and progression during rehab. Ongoing practice ensures best
outcomes when stabilizing knee injuries are case specific. Improving efficiency also
optimizes treatment.
Section 3: Shoulder Stabilization
Subacromial impingement and instability are frequent shoulder issues requiring protective
taping:
Demonstration: Begin by applying prewrap and circular shoulder pads placed below and
medial to the acromion. Use rigid tape (1.5”) starting high on the upper arm posteriorly.
Apply figure-of-8 circles around the scapula crossing the medial border to provide
compression medially for impingement symptoms.
Then reinforce with circular passes spiraling down around the humerus providing stability
to the glenohumeral joint.
Finish with a posterior sling crossing the tapes behind the shoulder from back to front
adding further compression to the anterior capsule.
Recheck tension and ensure padding prior to clearing the athlete. Re-tape every 5-7 days or
as skin compromise occurs.
Return Demonstration: The student successfully applies shoulder taping with appropriate
tensioning of figure-8 and circular components to compress the impingement point and
stabilize the glenohumeral joint. Padding is correctly placed and prewrap applied smoothly
without wrinkles or compression of vasculature. Proper taping was performed efficiently.
Discussion: Continued practice applying supportive yet restrictive shoulder taping
methods strengthens skills in managing common shoulder injuries. Refining efficiency
optimizes treatment outcomes through repeat reliable applications meeting individual
patient needs.
Section 4: Wrist & Hand Immobilization
The ultra-mobile wrist and hand require special consideration when stabilizing fractures
and soft tissue injuries:
Demonstration: Clean and pad any bony prominences before applying prewrap for skinned
protection. Use a removable self-adherent wrap starting distally at the fingers and spiraling
circumferentially upwards toward the forearm.
Next, reinforce with overlapping figure-8s spanning between the thenar and hypothenar
eminences for thumb and small finger stability. Ensure intact digital flexion by padding
between each finger.
Finish proximally by applying coban around the forearm for further immobilization while
allowing gentle wrist motion as healing allows. Pad all areas and check motion, sensation
and vascularity before and after application.
Monitor closely for skin compromise from circumferential immobilization and swelling.
Adjust wrappings to prevent further injury as needed.
Return Demonstration: The student correctly padded bony prominences before applying
smoothly overlapping layers from fingertips to forearm with gentle flexion preserved
between each digit. The self-adherent wrap was smoothly applied and reinforced with
figure-8s perfectly spanning thenar to hypothenar areas. Wrist and finger mobility,
sensation and circulation were appropriately checked before and after application meeting
technique standards. Wrapping was performed efficiently in under 15 minutes.
Discussion: Gaining experience stabilizing delicate hand and wrist injuries optimizes
immobilization for healing while allowing safe return to function. Continued practice
refines technique efficiency and individualized modifications meeting patient needs.
Section 5: Hamstring & Thigh Wrapping
Soft tissue injuries of the lower extremity require different stabilization strategies:
Demonstration: Clean and apply prewrap followed by non-elastic self-adherent wrap
starting at the distal thigh just proximal to the knee joint.
Overlap circular layers proximally in a flossing motion isolating the hamstring musculature
during the wrap. Pad behind the knee if intact.
Apply moderate initial tension avoiding excessive pressure distally which may affect
circulation. Monitor close contours and skin compromise as swelling fluctuates.
Re-wrap every 2-3 days during acute healing or as needed based on skin integrity, tension
or swelling changes. Adjust flossing patterns to accommodate specific injury sites.
Return Demonstration: The student applies overlapping concentric wraps smoothly from
knee to hip isolating the hamstrings with gentle but sufficient tensioning. The padding was
correctly placed and wrap smoothed around contours without excessive pressure
proximally or distally. Rechecking for vascularity, sensation and skin compromise was also
appropriately demonstrated meeting proficiency standards.
Discussion: Practicing lower extremity wrapping aids developing judgment to individualize
rigidity levels meeting rehab needs. Refining craft optimizes tissue protection and joint
stability promoting quick returns.
Section 6: Advanced Ankle Bracing
Let’s review options for more serious ankle instability:
Demonstration: For moderate ankle sprains with ligament laxity, reinforce standard ankle
taping with a figure-8 tape brace circumferentially wrapping immediately above and below
the malleoli. Apply rigidity with multiple passes.
For severe injuries, also incorporate an air stirrup brace underneath the tape brace.
Position the plantar shell component under the foot and secure the upright stirrup posts
lateral and medial to the malleoli. Inflate as indicated.
Custom ankle orthoses can provide integrated plastic semi-rigid shells and straps to
maximize immobilization during healing. Carefully measure, apply and adjust the fitting per
orthotist recommendations.
Re-evaluate rigidity as healing allows, substituting taping only once residual laxity resolves
with advanced progressive bracing.
Return Demonstration: The student accurately layers ankle taping applied with a figure-8
brace for added rigidity in a severe inversion sprain case study. Strategies for incorporating
additional air stirrup bracing or custom ankle-foot orthoses were also thoughtfully reviewed
meeting the objective.
Discussion: Understanding progressive bracing options optimizes outcomes for significant
ankle instability beyond basic taping alone. Referencing advanced resources aids clinical
decision making and injury management.
Section 7: Case Study Practice
Students will now have hands-on practice partnering to individually apply different taping
and wrapping techniques on each other covering injuries addressed in this course under
instructor guidance and feedback.
Case 1 – A collegiate lacrosse player sustains an ankle inversion sprain. Apply standard
ankle taping.
Assessment: Student correctly applies prewrap, heel/toe pads and the foundational ankle
taping technique—including plantarflexion strap, inferior stirrup taps and figure-8
components—to support the injured ankle. Tension is appropriate and all components are
smoothly applied meeting course standards.
Case 2 – A recreational runner experiences lateral knee pain on trails. Apply basic knee
sleeve bracing.
Assessment: The knee sleeve bracing is smoothly applied with proper tensioning centered
over the patella tendon providing good proprioceptive feedback without compromising
knee motion for this case. Application meets expectations.
Case 3 – A high school baseball pitcher has shoulder pain aggravating activity. Apply
supportive shoulder taping.
Assessment: The shoulder taping is correctly applied with rigid tape figure-8s and circular
reinforcements appropriately tensioned to compress the painful impingement point under
the acromion and stabilize the glenohumeral joint. Padding is correctly positioned and
taping smoothly applied per demonstration standards.
Conclusion
Thank you for the opportunity to practice and demonstrate important taping and wrapping
techniques. Developing proficiency in stabilizing techniques for common sports injuries
strengthens clinical skills and promotes best practices in injury management. Ongoing
practice applying varied techniques to mock patient case studies optimizes preparedness
to confidently Brace real-world acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions.
Introduction
As athletic trainers, we rely on taping and wrapping to provide support, immobilization, and
protection for injured athletes. These techniques allow athletes to continue competing and
training even when recovering from various musculoskeletal injuries. It is imperative that
we develop mastery over a variety of taping styles so that we can properly apply them in
clinical settings.
This hands-on assignment will provide opportunities to practice foundational taping and
wrapping methods. Through demonstrations, return demonstrations, and case studies,
students will develop competency in techniques for the ankle, knee, shoulder, wrist/hand
and other body regions. Emphasis will be placed on indications, contraindications,
materials and step-by-step application procedures. The goal is to leave feeling confident
applying evidenced-based taping techniques that optimize injury management.
Section 1: Ankle Taping
Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries seen in sports which puts clinical
competency in ankle taping at a premium. Let’s review proper procedures:
Demonstration: Apply prewrap and heel/toe pads to ensure skin protection and padding.
Use rigid athletic tape (1.5”-2”) starting proximally at the malleoli.
Start with a plantar flexion protective strap by wrapping under the foot and over the malleoli
3 times for added stability.
Next, apply inferior stirrup taps by wrapping around the forefoot behind the malleoli and
crossing under the arch to reinforce the lateral ligaments.
Follow with a figure-8 technique looping around the ankle laterally and medially for further
support of weak ligaments.
Finish with an external buttress component wrapping around the leg above the malleoli for
compression before trimming excess tape.
Check for proper tension, overlap, and skin protection before clearing the athlete to return
to activity appropriately braced. Reapply as needed, usually every 5-7 days.
Return Demonstration: Return demonstration reveals student has successfully mastered
the ankle taping procedure with correctly applied plantarflexion strap, stirrup taps, figure-8,
and external buttress components providing uniform compression across the ankle joint.
The taping technique was smoothly performed in under 10 minutes with no skin
compromise from the rigid tape.
Discussion: Routine ankle taping improves joint position sense and proprioception which
in turn decreases reinjury risk during rehabilitation. Developing craft with this common
injury prevents time lost for athletes in recovery. Ongoing practice ensures competency
with this fundamental taping method.
Section 2: Knee Bracing & Taping
The ACL in particular is vulnerable to reinjury, so protective knee bracing and taping
techniques for stabilizing collateral and cruciate ligaments are important clinical skills:
Demonstration: For an ACL injury in need of light bracing during rehab, apply a prewrap and
then a basic knee sleeve or band wrapped around the patella tendon. The compressive
sleeve provides proprioceptive feedback without limiting motion.
For more substantial knee instability, apply rigid tape (2”) starting superior to the patella by
wrapping circumferentially around the knee while applying medial and lateral tension for
stability. Reinforce this hinge taping with additional figure-8 passes around the joint line.
Bracing the collaterals further involves applying vertical medial and lateral heel locks
running from the knee to just below the tibial tubercle. Finish by firmly patting the tape and
checking for proper compression and skin protection.
As needed, reinforce existing bracing with athletic tape application focusing on specific
ligament deficiencies identified during knee exams. Monitor for proper fit, tension and skin
issues with bracing over time.
Return Demonstration: Student accurately performs knee taping utilizing the figure-8,
circumferential hinge and heel lock components with even tension across collateral and
cruciate ligament insertions on both sides of the knee. Proper technique was
demonstrated efficiently and without tape overhang or skin compromise.
Discussion: Developing proficiency with taping and bracing techniques for the vulnerable
knee protects healing tissues and progression during rehab. Ongoing practice ensures best
outcomes when stabilizing knee injuries are case specific. Improving efficiency also
optimizes treatment.
Section 3: Shoulder Stabilization
Subacromial impingement and instability are frequent shoulder issues requiring protective
taping:
Demonstration: Begin by applying prewrap and circular shoulder pads placed below and
medial to the acromion. Use rigid tape (1.5”) starting high on the upper arm posteriorly.
Apply figure-of-8 circles around the scapula crossing the medial border to provide
compression medially for impingement symptoms.
Then reinforce with circular passes spiraling down around the humerus providing stability
to the glenohumeral joint.
Finish with a posterior sling crossing the tapes behind the shoulder from back to front
adding further compression to the anterior capsule.
Recheck tension and ensure padding prior to clearing the athlete. Re-tape every 5-7 days or
as skin compromise occurs.
Return Demonstration: The student successfully applies shoulder taping with appropriate
tensioning of figure-8 and circular components to compress the impingement point and
stabilize the glenohumeral joint. Padding is correctly placed and prewrap applied smoothly
without wrinkles or compression of vasculature. Proper taping was performed efficiently.
Discussion: Continued practice applying supportive yet restrictive shoulder taping
methods strengthens skills in managing common shoulder injuries. Refining efficiency
optimizes treatment outcomes through repeat reliable applications meeting individual
patient needs.
Section 4: Wrist & Hand Immobilization
The ultra-mobile wrist and hand require special consideration when stabilizing fractures
and soft tissue injuries:
Demonstration: Clean and pad any bony prominences before applying prewrap for skinned
protection. Use a removable self-adherent wrap starting distally at the fingers and spiraling
circumferentially upwards toward the forearm.
Next, reinforce with overlapping figure-8s spanning between the thenar and hypothenar
eminences for thumb and small finger stability. Ensure intact digital flexion by padding
between each finger.
Finish proximally by applying coban around the forearm for further immobilization while
allowing gentle wrist motion as healing allows. Pad all areas and check motion, sensation
and vascularity before and after application.
Monitor closely for skin compromise from circumferential immobilization and swelling.
Adjust wrappings to prevent further injury as needed.
Return Demonstration: The student correctly padded bony prominences before applying
smoothly overlapping layers from fingertips to forearm with gentle flexion preserved
between each digit. The self-adherent wrap was smoothly applied and reinforced with
figure-8s perfectly spanning thenar to hypothenar areas. Wrist and finger mobility,
sensation and circulation were appropriately checked before and after application meeting
technique standards. Wrapping was performed efficiently in under 15 minutes.
Discussion: Gaining experience stabilizing delicate hand and wrist injuries optimizes
immobilization for healing while allowing safe return to function. Continued practice
refines technique efficiency and individualized modifications meeting patient needs.
Section 5: Hamstring & Thigh Wrapping
Soft tissue injuries of the lower extremity require different stabilization strategies:
Demonstration: Clean and apply prewrap followed by non-elastic self-adherent wrap
starting at the distal thigh just proximal to the knee joint.
Overlap circular layers proximally in a flossing motion isolating the hamstring musculature
during the wrap. Pad behind the knee if intact.
Apply moderate initial tension avoiding excessive pressure distally which may affect
circulation. Monitor close contours and skin compromise as swelling fluctuates.
Re-wrap every 2-3 days during acute healing or as needed based on skin integrity, tension
or swelling changes. Adjust flossing patterns to accommodate specific injury sites.
Return Demonstration: The student applies overlapping concentric wraps smoothly from
knee to hip isolating the hamstrings with gentle but sufficient tensioning. The padding was
correctly placed and wrap smoothed around contours without excessive pressure
proximally or distally. Rechecking for vascularity, sensation and skin compromise was also
appropriately demonstrated meeting proficiency standards.
Discussion: Practicing lower extremity wrapping aids developing judgment to individualize
rigidity levels meeting rehab needs. Refining craft optimizes tissue protection and joint
stability promoting quick returns.
Section 6: Advanced Ankle Bracing
Let’s review options for more serious ankle instability:
Demonstration: For moderate ankle sprains with ligament laxity, reinforce standard ankle
taping with a figure-8 tape brace circumferentially wrapping immediately above and below
the malleoli. Apply rigidity with multiple passes.
For severe injuries, also incorporate an air stirrup brace underneath the tape brace.
Position the plantar shell component under the foot and secure the upright stirrup posts
lateral and medial to the malleoli. Inflate as indicated.
Custom ankle orthoses can provide integrated plastic semi-rigid shells and straps to
maximize immobilization during healing. Carefully measure, apply and adjust the fitting per
orthotist recommendations.
Re-evaluate rigidity as healing allows, substituting taping only once residual laxity resolves
with advanced progressive bracing.
Return Demonstration: The student accurately layers ankle taping applied with a figure-8
brace for added rigidity in a severe inversion sprain case study. Strategies for incorporating
additional air stirrup bracing or custom ankle-foot orthoses were also thoughtfully reviewed
meeting the objective.
Discussion: Understanding progressive bracing options optimizes outcomes for significant
ankle instability beyond basic taping alone. Referencing advanced resources aids clinical
decision making and injury management.
Section 7: Case Study Practice
Students will now have hands-on practice partnering to individually apply different taping
and wrapping techniques on each other covering injuries addressed in this course under
instructor guidance and feedback.
Case 1 – A collegiate lacrosse player sustains an ankle inversion sprain. Apply standard
ankle taping.
Assessment: Student correctly applies prewrap, heel/toe pads and the foundational ankle
taping technique—including plantarflexion strap, inferior stirrup taps and figure-8
components—to support the injured ankle. Tension is appropriate and all components are
smoothly applied meeting course standards.
Case 2 – A recreational runner experiences lateral knee pain on trails. Apply basic knee
sleeve bracing.
Assessment: The knee sleeve bracing is smoothly applied with proper tensioning centered
over the patella tendon providing good proprioceptive feedback without compromising
knee motion for this case. Application meets expectations.
Case 3 – A high school baseball pitcher has shoulder pain aggravating activity. Apply
supportive shoulder taping.
Assessment: The shoulder taping is correctly applied with rigid tape figure-8s and circular
reinforcements appropriately tensioned to compress the painful impingement point under
the acromion and stabilize the glenohumeral joint. Padding is correctly positioned and
taping smoothly applied per demonstration standards.
Conclusion
Thank you for the opportunity to practice and demonstrate important taping and wrapping
techniques. Developing proficiency in stabilizing techniques for common sports injuries
strengthens clinical skills and promotes best practices in injury management. Ongoing
practice applying varied techniques to mock patient case studies optimizes preparedness
to confidently Brace real-world acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions.
Introduction
As athletic trainers, we rely on taping and wrapping to provide support, immobilization, and
protection for injured athletes. These techniques allow athletes to continue competing and
training even when recovering from various musculoskeletal injuries. It is imperative that
we develop mastery over a variety of taping styles so that we can properly apply them in
clinical settings.
This hands-on assignment will provide opportunities to practice foundational taping and
wrapping methods. Through demonstrations, return demonstrations, and case studies,
students will develop competency in techniques for the ankle, knee, shoulder, wrist/hand
and other body regions. Emphasis will be placed on indications, contraindications,
materials and step-by-step application procedures. The goal is to leave feeling confident
applying evidenced-based taping techniques that optimize injury management.
Section 1: Ankle Taping
Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries seen in sports which puts clinical
competency in ankle taping at a premium. Let’s review proper procedures:
Demonstration: Apply prewrap and heel/toe pads to ensure skin protection and padding.
Use rigid athletic tape (1.5”-2”) starting proximally at the malleoli.
Start with a plantar flexion protective strap by wrapping under the foot and over the malleoli
3 times for added stability.
Next, apply inferior stirrup taps by wrapping around the forefoot behind the malleoli and
crossing under the arch to reinforce the lateral ligaments.
Follow with a figure-8 technique looping around the ankle laterally and medially for further
support of weak ligaments.
Finish with an external buttress component wrapping around the leg above the malleoli for
compression before trimming excess tape.
Check for proper tension, overlap, and skin protection before clearing the athlete to return
to activity appropriately braced. Reapply as needed, usually every 5-7 days.
Return Demonstration: Return demonstration reveals student has successfully mastered
the ankle taping procedure with correctly applied plantarflexion strap, stirrup taps, figure-8,
and external buttress components providing uniform compression across the ankle joint.
The taping technique was smoothly performed in under 10 minutes with no skin
compromise from the rigid tape.
Discussion: Routine ankle taping improves joint position sense and proprioception which
in turn decreases reinjury risk during rehabilitation. Developing craft with this common
injury prevents time lost for athletes in recovery. Ongoing practice ensures competency
with this fundamental taping method.
Section 2: Knee Bracing & Taping
The ACL in particular is vulnerable to reinjury, so protective knee bracing and taping
techniques for stabilizing collateral and cruciate ligaments are important clinical skills:
Demonstration: For an ACL injury in need of light bracing during rehab, apply a prewrap and
then a basic knee sleeve or band wrapped around the patella tendon. The compressive
sleeve provides proprioceptive feedback without limiting motion.
For more substantial knee instability, apply rigid tape (2”) starting superior to the patella by
wrapping circumferentially around the knee while applying medial and lateral tension for
stability. Reinforce this hinge taping with additional figure-8 passes around the joint line.
Bracing the collaterals further involves applying vertical medial and lateral heel locks
running from the knee to just below the tibial tubercle. Finish by firmly patting the tape and
checking for proper compression and skin protection.
As needed, reinforce existing bracing with athletic tape application focusing on specific
ligament deficiencies identified during knee exams. Monitor for proper fit, tension and skin
issues with bracing over time.
Return Demonstration: Student accurately performs knee taping utilizing the figure-8,
circumferential hinge and heel lock components with even tension across collateral and
cruciate ligament insertions on both sides of the knee. Proper technique was
demonstrated efficiently and without tape overhang or skin compromise.
Discussion: Developing proficiency with taping and bracing techniques for the vulnerable
knee protects healing tissues and progression during rehab. Ongoing practice ensures best
outcomes when stabilizing knee injuries are case specific. Improving efficiency also
optimizes treatment.
Section 3: Shoulder Stabilization
Subacromial impingement and instability are frequent shoulder issues requiring protective
taping:
Demonstration: Begin by applying prewrap and circular shoulder pads placed below and
medial to the acromion. Use rigid tape (1.5”) starting high on the upper arm posteriorly.
Apply figure-of-8 circles around the scapula crossing the medial border to provide
compression medially for impingement symptoms.
Then reinforce with circular passes spiraling down around the humerus providing stability
to the glenohumeral joint.
Finish with a posterior sling crossing the tapes behind the shoulder from back to front
adding further compression to the anterior capsule.
Recheck tension and ensure padding prior to clearing the athlete. Re-tape every 5-7 days or
as skin compromise occurs.
Return Demonstration: The student successfully applies shoulder taping with appropriate
tensioning of figure-8 and circular components to compress the impingement point and
stabilize the glenohumeral joint. Padding is correctly placed and prewrap applied smoothly
without wrinkles or compression of vasculature. Proper taping was performed efficiently.
Discussion: Continued practice applying supportive yet restrictive shoulder taping
methods strengthens skills in managing common shoulder injuries. Refining efficiency
optimizes treatment outcomes through repeat reliable applications meeting individual
patient needs.
Section 4: Wrist & Hand Immobilization
The ultra-mobile wrist and hand require special consideration when stabilizing fractures
and soft tissue injuries:
Demonstration: Clean and pad any bony prominences before applying prewrap for skinned
protection. Use a removable self-adherent wrap starting distally at the fingers and spiraling
circumferentially upwards toward the forearm.
Next, reinforce with overlapping figure-8s spanning between the thenar and hypothenar
eminences for thumb and small finger stability. Ensure intact digital flexion by padding
between each finger.
Finish proximally by applying coban around the forearm for further immobilization while
allowing gentle wrist motion as healing allows. Pad all areas and check motion, sensation
and vascularity before and after application.
Monitor closely for skin compromise from circumferential immobilization and swelling.
Adjust wrappings to prevent further injury as needed.
Return Demonstration: The student correctly padded bony prominences before applying
smoothly overlapping layers from fingertips to forearm with gentle flexion preserved
between each digit. The self-adherent wrap was smoothly applied and reinforced with
figure-8s perfectly spanning thenar to hypothenar areas. Wrist and finger mobility,
sensation and circulation were appropriately checked before and after application meeting
technique standards. Wrapping was performed efficiently in under 15 minutes.
Discussion: Gaining experience stabilizing delicate hand and wrist injuries optimizes
immobilization for healing while allowing safe return to function. Continued practice
refines technique efficiency and individualized modifications meeting patient needs.
Section 5: Hamstring & Thigh Wrapping
Soft tissue injuries of the lower extremity require different stabilization strategies:
Demonstration: Clean and apply prewrap followed by non-elastic self-adherent wrap
starting at the distal thigh just proximal to the knee joint.
Overlap circular layers proximally in a flossing motion isolating the hamstring musculature
during the wrap. Pad behind the knee if intact.
Apply moderate initial tension avoiding excessive pressure distally which may affect
circulation. Monitor close contours and skin compromise as swelling fluctuates.
Re-wrap every 2-3 days during acute healing or as needed based on skin integrity, tension
or swelling changes. Adjust flossing patterns to accommodate specific injury sites.
Return Demonstration: The student applies overlapping concentric wraps smoothly from
knee to hip isolating the hamstrings with gentle but sufficient tensioning. The padding was
correctly placed and wrap smoothed around contours without excessive pressure
proximally or distally. Rechecking for vascularity, sensation and skin compromise was also
appropriately demonstrated meeting proficiency standards.
Discussion: Practicing lower extremity wrapping aids developing judgment to individualize
rigidity levels meeting rehab needs. Refining craft optimizes tissue protection and joint
stability promoting quick returns.
Section 6: Advanced Ankle Bracing
Let’s review options for more serious ankle instability:
Demonstration: For moderate ankle sprains with ligament laxity, reinforce standard ankle
taping with a figure-8 tape brace circumferentially wrapping immediately above and below
the malleoli. Apply rigidity with multiple passes.
For severe injuries, also incorporate an air stirrup brace underneath the tape brace.
Position the plantar shell component under the foot and secure the upright stirrup posts
lateral and medial to the malleoli. Inflate as indicated.
Custom ankle orthoses can provide integrated plastic semi-rigid shells and straps to
maximize immobilization during healing. Carefully measure, apply and adjust the fitting per
orthotist recommendations.
Re-evaluate rigidity as healing allows, substituting taping only once residual laxity resolves
with advanced progressive bracing.
Return Demonstration: The student accurately layers ankle taping applied with a figure-8
brace for added rigidity in a severe inversion sprain case study. Strategies for incorporating
additional air stirrup bracing or custom ankle-foot orthoses were also thoughtfully reviewed
meeting the objective.
Discussion: Understanding progressive bracing options optimizes outcomes for significant
ankle instability beyond basic taping alone. Referencing advanced resources aids clinical
decision making and injury management.
Section 7: Case Study Practice
Students will now have hands-on practice partnering to individually apply different taping
and wrapping techniques on each other covering injuries addressed in this course under
instructor guidance and feedback.
Case 1 – A collegiate lacrosse player sustains an ankle inversion sprain. Apply standard
ankle taping.
Assessment: Student correctly applies prewrap, heel/toe pads and the foundational ankle
taping technique—including plantarflexion strap, inferior stirrup taps and figure-8
components—to support the injured ankle. Tension is appropriate and all components are
smoothly applied meeting course standards.
Case 2 – A recreational runner experiences lateral knee pain on trails. Apply basic knee
sleeve bracing.
Assessment: The knee sleeve bracing is smoothly applied with proper tensioning centered
over the patella tendon providing good proprioceptive feedback without compromising
knee motion for this case. Application meets expectations.
Case 3 – A high school baseball pitcher has shoulder pain aggravating activity. Apply
supportive shoulder taping.
Assessment: The shoulder taping is correctly applied with rigid tape figure-8s and circular
reinforcements appropriately tensioned to compress the painful impingement point under
the acromion and stabilize the glenohumeral joint. Padding is correctly positioned and
taping smoothly applied per demonstration standards.
Conclusion
Thank you for the opportunity to practice and demonstrate important taping and wrapping
techniques. Developing proficiency in stabilizing techniques for common sports injuries
strengthens clinical skills and promotes best practices in injury management. Ongoing
practice applying varied techniques to mock patient case studies optimizes preparedness
to confidently Brace real-world acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions.
