How to Use Kinesio Tape for Tennis Elbow

Tennis elbow is a frustrating and common injury experienced by many individuals. It reduces range of motion and the strength of the affected arm. Kinesio tape can be used to wrap the elbow, reduce inflammation and support the injured arm. It is popular because it does not restrict range of motion and is lightweight. There are several steps you can take to properly apply Kinesio tape.

Things You'll Need

• Kinesio tape
• Scissors

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Cut a "Y" strip of Kinesio tape. Lay out a strip of tape that is long enough to cover the length from the wrist to a spot 1 inch below the elbow. Using scissors, cut down the center of the tape length wise and stop 1 inch from the end. The tape should have two long strips attached to a 1-inch anchor.

• 2

  Apply the anchor tape and one of the strips. With the arm held straight out and the palm facing down, apply the 1-inch base part of the Kinesio tape to the wrist with no stretch. Rub down firmly to apply the adhesive. Pull one of the long strips up and along the forearm wrist flexors and stretch about 25 percent of its available 40 percent stretch. Apply the last inch of the tape with no stretch. Rub the tape down to set the adhesive.

• 3

  Apply the second strip of the "Y" tape. Using the same stretching methods as with the first strip, apply the second strip parallel to the first so that they are about a half-inch apart. Rub down to set the adhesive.

• 4

  Apply the final anchor taping. Measure and cut a 3-inch piece of Kinesio tape. Stretch the tape to its 40 percent stretch capacity and apply to the upper forearm. The tape should be on top of the two strips and the last inch of the strips should show by the elbow. Rub firmly down on top of the tape.