Kinesiology tape, often recognized by its bright colors, is an elastic therapeutic tool designed to provide support for joints and muscles while still allowing a full range of motion. Unlike rigid athletic tape, this flexible cotton or synthetic strip uses an acrylic adhesive and mimics the elasticity of human skin. It stretches up to 140% of its original length. The goal of using the tape is to offer subtle mechanical support, encourage better body awareness, and potentially improve circulation by gently lifting the skin. Applying it properly to the wrist can help stabilize the joint, often used for conditions such as mild strain or general instability.
Preparing the Skin and Tape
Optimal adhesion depends significantly on thoroughly preparing the skin beneath the application area. The skin around the wrist and forearm must be completely clean and dry, free from any lotions, oils, or sweat that could compromise the acrylic adhesive bond. Trimming long hair in the application area helps prevent premature peeling and makes the eventual removal process much less irritating.
To ensure the tape remains effective for its intended duration of several days, it must be measured and cut precisely. For a standard two-strip application, the first strip spans from the mid-hand across the wrist joint and up the forearm. The second strip typically wraps around the wrist circumference. It is important to round the corners of every strip using scissors, as these sharp points are often the first areas to lift and peel off. Once the strips are cut, avoid touching the adhesive side, as skin oils can weaken the glue and lead to early peeling.
Step-by-Step Application for General Wrist Support
The most effective technique for general wrist stabilization involves a two-strip application, focusing on providing support across the dorsal (back) side of the wrist. Begin by positioning the wrist in a slight extension, which means gently bending the hand backward. This helps to pre-stretch the skin and muscles over the joint. Take the first, longer “I” strip and tear the paper backing about two inches from one end to create the first anchor.
Place this anchor section, with zero tension, on the back of the hand just behind the knuckles, ensuring the end lies flat without wrinkles. Gently peel back the rest of the paper backing while applying a light stretch, generally about 25 to 50% of the tape’s maximum stretch, across the wrist joint. This moderate tension provides the actual support for the joint, creating a recoil effect on the skin.
Lay the remainder of the strip up the back of the forearm, applying the final two-inch anchor section again with zero tension to prevent skin irritation at the ends. Next, take the second, shorter strip and tear the paper backing in the center, peeling it back on both sides to expose the middle section of the tape. Position this strip to cross the first one over the area of greatest discomfort or instability, typically right over the wrist joint.
Apply this center section with a similar 25 to 50% tension, wrapping it circumferentially around the wrist. Lay down the remaining ends of this second strip with absolutely no tension, ensuring they do not completely overlap the ends of the first strip. After both strips are applied smoothly, rub the entire application vigorously with your hand for several seconds. This friction generates heat, which is necessary to fully activate the heat-sensitive acrylic adhesive, setting the tape firmly to the skin for maximum wear time.
Duration of Wear and Removal Guidelines
When correctly applied, kinesiology tape is designed to be worn continuously for three to five days. The duration depends on factors like skin type and activity level, but the tape maintains its support even through showering and light exercise. Monitor the skin underneath the application and remove the tape immediately if you notice signs of severe itching, redness, discomfort, or numbness.
Once the edges begin to peel significantly, the tape should be removed slowly and carefully to prevent skin trauma. The safest method involves peeling the tape back very slowly, pulling it in the direction of hair growth while simultaneously pressing down on the skin behind the peeling edge. For easier removal, saturate the tape with warm water or apply a gentle oil, such as baby oil, allowing it to soak in before peeling.