A shoulder sprain involves the overstretching or tearing of the ligaments that connect the bones within the shoulder joint, most commonly affecting the acromioclavicular (AC) joint where the collarbone meets the shoulder blade. Taping provides mechanical stability and proprioceptive feedback to the nervous system. This external support helps limit excessive or painful movement during activity, reducing the likelihood of further injury and assisting with pain management.
Essential Supplies and Preparation
Successfully taping a sprained shoulder requires specific materials, starting with the tape itself. Rigid athletic tape is preferred for maximum restriction and joint stabilization, typically applied over a hypoallergenic underlay or pre-wrap. Alternatively, highly elastic Kinesiology tape provides dynamic support and sensory feedback without severely restricting range of motion. You will also need blunt-nosed scissors and skin cleaner or rubbing alcohol to ensure proper tape adhesion.
Preparation of the skin is crucial, as it directly impacts the tape’s effectiveness and duration of wear. The area must be thoroughly cleaned to remove oils, lotions, or sweat, and then dried completely before application. Dense hair should be trimmed or shaved at least twelve hours prior to taping to avoid irritation. Proper positioning is also necessary, often meaning the arm is placed in a neutral or slightly abducted (away from the body) and relaxed position. This ensures the tape is applied across a stretched muscle group, allowing for full movement when the arm returns to a natural position.
Detailed Application Techniques
A supportive application using elastic Kinesiology tape is common for sprains, as it encourages movement while providing security. This technique often involves two main strips to support the deltoid muscle and underlying rotator cuff tendons. Begin by measuring the first strip from the top of the shoulder to the middle of the upper arm. Remember to round all corners to prevent premature peeling.
Anchor the base of the first strip, without stretch, just below the deltoid muscle on the lateral side of the upper arm. With the arm hanging loosely, apply the tape upward over the deltoid muscle, using approximately twenty-five percent tension through the middle section. The final two inches of the tape should be applied with zero tension, ending just over the acromion (the bony point of the shoulder).
The second strip is often applied in a “Y” shape or as a full-length strip to support the scapular stabilizers or cross the joint line. Anchor the base without tension on the back of the shoulder near the spine or scapula. The arm should be slightly rotated internally and across the body, as this position helps stretch the posterior shoulder muscles.
The tape is then pulled across the shoulder joint with light tension (ten to fifteen percent) to lift the skin and potentially decompress the area. The second strip should slightly overlap the first, running over the area of greatest tenderness. The ends of this strip are secured with no tension, ensuring the tape does not constrict circulation or movement at the anchor points. Once all strips are applied, rub the tape vigorously for several seconds to generate heat, which activates the adhesive layer and ensures a secure bond.
Important Safety Considerations
Before attempting to tape a shoulder, a medical professional must evaluate the injury to rule out serious conditions. Taping is not appropriate if a fracture, dislocation, or severe acute swelling is suspected, as external pressure could cause further harm. Avoid taping over open wounds, areas of severe skin irritation, or if you have known circulatory issues or a hypersensitivity to adhesives.
Once the tape is applied, continuous monitoring for adverse signs is mandatory. Persistent numbness, tingling, or a change in the color of the fingers or hand (such as blue or white discoloration) signals that the tape is too tight and is restricting blood flow or nerve function. Any throbbing sensation or significant increase in pain upon movement indicates the tape must be immediately removed.
Supportive tape should not be worn for more than one to three days, as prolonged application can cause skin irritation and reduce effectiveness. When removing the tape, avoid skin trauma by peeling it slowly and pulling parallel to the skin surface, rather than upward. Using baby oil, massage oil, or a specialized adhesive remover spray can significantly ease the process, dissolving the glue and minimizing discomfort.