Athletic tape provides a non-invasive method for supporting the thumb’s joint structures following a minor injury. This technique is often used for mild sprains, strains, or as a preventative measure during physical activity. Taping restricts excessive movement, which helps reduce pain and protects ligaments, such as the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) at the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint, allowing the body’s natural healing process to proceed. Taping is only a temporary support mechanism and is not a substitute for professional medical evaluation if the injury is severe.
Assessing the Injury and Gathering Supplies
Before applying tape, assess the injury to determine if self-taping is appropriate or if it warrants immediate medical attention. Taping is suitable for low-grade sprains, characterized by mild pain, localized swelling, and the ability to move the joint despite some discomfort. In contrast, any sign of a severe injury—such as visible deformity, inability to move the thumb, numbness, significant swelling, or unmanageable pain—requires prompt consultation with a healthcare professional to rule out fractures or complete ligament ruptures.
Once the injury is determined to be minor, gather the necessary materials. You will need rigid, non-elastic athletic tape, typically 1 to 1.5 inches (2.5 to 3.8 cm) wide, to provide firm support. Pre-wrap or under-wrap is highly recommended to prevent skin irritation and blisters. Medical scissors are needed to cut the strips precisely. Ensure the skin of the hand and wrist is clean and completely dry for proper adhesion.
Applying the Basic Support Taping Method
The standard technique for stabilizing the thumb’s MCP joint uses anchor strips and figure-eight patterns. Anchor strips serve as the foundation for the support strips, preventing the tape job from slipping. Place the first anchor circumferentially around the wrist, ensuring it is not excessively tight to avoid circulation issues. The second anchor is placed around the base of the thumb near the web space.
With the anchors in place, build the support structure using the figure-eight pattern, which restricts side-to-side and hyperextension movements. Start a support strip on the wrist anchor, bring it across the palm, over the MCP joint, and loop it around the thumb anchor. Return the strip to the back of the hand and secure it back onto the wrist anchor. This loop crosses over itself on the palm side, forming the “eight” shape and limiting movement.
Apply a second and third figure-eight strip, overlapping the previous strip by about half its width. These layers reinforce the first loop, creating a rigid barrier against unwanted joint motion. When applying the tape, keep the thumb in a neutral, slightly extended position, similar to holding a glass. This prevents taping the joint in an over-flexed or over-extended position.
The final step involves applying locking strips to secure all working strips and smooth down loose edges, preventing the tape from peeling off. Place additional strips directly over the wrist and thumb anchors, covering the ends of the figure-eight strips. For effective stabilization, these locking strips should completely encircle the initial anchor points, ensuring the entire tape structure is firmly fixed.
Ensuring Proper Fit and Recognizing Complications
After completing the taping process, immediately check for proper fit and circulation to prevent complications. The most reliable method for checking blood flow is the capillary refill test. Press firmly on the nail bed of the taped thumb until it turns pale, then release the pressure. The pink color should return within three seconds; a longer time indicates the tape is too tight, requiring immediate removal and re-taping.
Assess the color, temperature, and sensation of the taped thumb compared to the uninjured hand. The thumb should remain warm and pink. The wearer should not experience tingling, numbness, or a persistent cold feeling, as these are signs of nerve or circulation compromise. The tape should feel supportive and firm, but never constricting or painful, and the wearer must be able to gently move the tip of the thumb.
Rigid athletic tape is not intended for prolonged wear. It should be removed after activity or every 24 to 48 hours to inspect the skin and allow for washing. If increased pain, severe itching, or a pale or bluish color develops beneath the tape, remove it immediately. For less restrictive support, such as during later recovery stages, an elastic adhesive bandage can be used instead of rigid tape.