Basic Athletic Training Chapter 5 Preventive and Supportive Techniques

Chapter Objectives Describe the purpose and philosophy of taping and wrapping Identify the guidelines for the application of elastic wraps Identify the protocol in preparation of taping and/or wrapping Recognize the proper selection of supplies and equipment Recognize the precautions taken in the application of preventive/supportive techniques Recognize the importance of proper injury evaluation prior to application of preventive/supportive techniques Identify the proper steps in the application and removal of taping procedures

Assessing an Injury A proper injury evaluation should be completed by a physician or qualified health care professional before applying preventative or supportive techniques. If questions arise, a physician should preform a medical diagnosis. Following injury evaluation, qualified health care professional can then make recommendations concerning application of protective techniques.

Purpose of Taping and Wrapping Tape application—provide additional support, stability, and compression Elastic wraps—support and compression Taping and wrapping techniques can be applied to: Shorten the muscles angle of pull Decrease joint range of motion Secure pads, bandages, and protective devices Apply compression to aid in controlling swelling

Philosophies of Elastic Tape and Elastic Wrap Application Proper angle, direction, and tension must be considered Has ability to contract and expand Used in areas that need greater freedom of movement Has the characteristics of conformability and strength Placed on the body with fewer wrinkles and at greater angles Elastic Wrap Utilized in the application of applying either compression or support to injured anatomical structures

Common Terminology Anchor to X-pattern REVIEW AND DISCUSS

Description of Athletic Training Supplies Adhesive Tape Marketed as nonelastic, white tape Elastic Tape Provides greater freedom of mobility to the affected body part and is marketed as elastic tape Elastic Wrap Defined as a woven fabric that also allows for expansion and contraction, and is used for compression or supportive techniques

Selection of Proper Supplies and Specialty Supplies Selection of supplies depends on: The number and types of sports offered and frequency of injuries Budget Philosophy of medical staff regarding taping techniques Occurrence of injury Special considerations given to these supplies: Benzoin (spray adherent) Adhesive versus elastic tape Width of adhesive tape and elastic tape Length and width of elastic wraps

Preparation of Body Part to be Taped or Wrapped Removal of hair Cleanse the area Special considerations Spray adherent Skin lubricants Underwrap

Application and Removal of Taping Procedure To tear tape, hold each side firmly of the proposed tear line The more quickly the tearing maneuver is done, the more evenly tape edges will be torn A small amount of lubricant on the tip of the cutting device will allow the instrument to slip under the tape more readily Avoid bony prominences Remove the tape from the skin in a constant and gradual manner Tape should be removed in the opposite direction from which it was applied

Purpose and Application of Elastic Wraps for Support Supportive Wraps Aid in muscle function and support and reduce excessive range of motion Used for short periods of time, such as competition and practice Common terminology: spica, figure of eight, and pad support Spica Wraps Hip and shoulder joints

Purpose and Application of Elastic Wraps for Compression Figure of Eight Wraps Ankle, knee, elbow, and wrist and hand joints Compression Wraps Utilized in initial injury treatment protocol (PRICES) Use spiral pattern From distal to the injury, cross the injured joint, and finish proximal to the affected area Combine with elevation

Sport Specific Rules on Taping and Wrapping Be aware of specific rules for each sport Sport governing bodies have rules regarding tape and/or wrap applications Tape and/or wrap applications must fall within the guidelines established for each sport

Braces and Special Devices Primary purpose is to prevent an injury and to protect injured anatomical structures from further aggravation Protective devices can be applied to add additional protection, support, stability, and compression Common specialty supplies used in braces and special devices techniques: Foam Thermoplastic Felt Special Pad Criteria

Principles of Physical Rehabilitation Supportive techniques along with a rehabilitation program enhance an athlete’s return to activity Taping and wrapping procedures are NOT a substitute for proper injury rehabilitation You should follow specific instructions regarding injury rehabilitation and supportive taping techniques, as outlined by a physician or qualified health care professional

Precautions Before applying any technique, the athlete’s skin temperature should be normal When applying support techniques, the safety of the athlete should be your priority With all injured athletes, consultation with a physician is recommended

Preventive/Supportive Techniques Wrapping Techniques for Compression Ankle, knee, elbow, wrist/hand Wrapping Techniques for Support Ankle, knee, hamstring, quadriceps, hip flexor, hip adductor, glenohumeral

Preventive/Supportive Techniques Taping Techniques Ankle, foot, and lower leg Knee, thigh, and hip Thorax and low back Shoulder and elbow Forearm, wrist, and hand

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