How to Tape a Sprained Elbow
An elbow sprain is basically a tear of the ligament, or the band of tissue connecting one bone to another bone, that crosses the joints and stabilize the elbow. Typically, in this sort of sprain, you’ll find a swelling or tenderness around the elbow as well as a possible redness or bruising. The elbow itself will suffer from limited movement and often times a pain when bending. In taping the elbow after a sprain, you must take great care in stabilizing the arm.
Instructions
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1
Before taping the area of injury, you should apply ice to the elbow to reduce swelling.
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2
After you’ve iced the area, position the arm so there is a slight bend at the elbow, paying close attention not to strain or worsen your elbow injury.
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3
Start by creating two anchors by wrapping the mid arm, from the biceps to just above the elbow, and the forearm, from just below the elbow to halfway down the forearm.
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4
Using another strip of elastic tape, apply the strip from the outside of the forearm, moving it under the arm and crossing just below the joint line of elbow until it comes to the inside of the bicep, adhering it to the upper anchor.
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5
Take another strip of elastic tape and adhere it to the inside of the forearm anchor, moving it under the arm and crossing just below the joint line of elbow until it comes to the outside of the bicep, adhering it to the upper anchor.
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6
Repeat Steps 4 and 5 so there are two strips running from the outside of the forearm anchor to the inside of the bicep anchor and two strips running from the inside of the forearm anchor to outside of the bicep anchor.
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7
Anchor these strips down with additional tape around the forearm and bicep. Elevate the arm.
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Tips & Warnings
Be careful not to wrap the arm and elbow too tightly so to restrict blood circulation.
Consult a doctor if you suffer from any elbow injury.
