How to strap a wrist

Strapping a wrist using rigid strapping tape is a common technique employed to provide support and stability, especially during physical activities or after injury. Proper wrist strapping helps reduce the risk of sprains, strains, and other wrist-related injuries by limiting excessive movement and providing reinforcement to the joint. Below is a detailed guide on how to strap a wrist using rigid strapping tape effectively:

1. Gather Materials: Begin by gathering the necessary materials, including rigid strapping tape, scissors for cutting the tape, and optionally, pre-wrap or adhesive underwrap for skin protection.
2. Prepare the Wrist: Ensure the wrist is clean and dry before applying any tape. If desired, apply pre-wrap or adhesive underwrap to protect the skin and enhance comfort.
3. Anchor the Tape: Start by anchoring the tape on the palm side of the wrist, just below the base of the thumb. Secure the end of the tape firmly but not too tightly to avoid cutting off circulation.
4. Wrap Around the Wrist: Begin wrapping the tape around the wrist in a circular motion, starting from the palm side and moving towards the back of the hand. Ensure each wrap overlaps slightly to provide uniform support.
5. Secure the Thumb: After wrapping around the wrist several times, guide the tape diagonally across the palm and over the back of the hand. Wrap around the base of the thumb once or twice to secure it in place.
6. Cross Over the Wrist: Continue wrapping the tape diagonally across the back of the hand and over the wrist joint. This crossing pattern helps reinforce the wrist and limits excessive movement.
7. Return to the Palm Side: Once the tape has crossed over the wrist joint, bring it back to the palm side and wrap around the wrist once more. Ensure the tension is firm but not overly tight to maintain circulation.
8. Repeat the Process: Continue wrapping the tape around the wrist, alternating between diagonal wraps and circular wraps to create a secure and supportive strapping. Be mindful of the tension and alignment to ensure proper support.
9. Cover the Wrist: After several wraps, finish by wrapping the tape around the wrist once or twice horizontally to provide additional stability. Secure the end of the tape firmly but comfortably.
10. Trim Excess Tape: Use scissors to trim any excess tape, ensuring a neat and tidy finish. Be careful not to cut the tape too close to the skin to prevent it from unraveling.
11. Test Mobility: Once the wrist is securely strapped, test the mobility by gently moving the hand and wrist in different directions. The wrist should feel supported and stable, with minimal movement beyond the normal range of motion.
12. Reinforce if Necessary: If additional support is needed, especially for high-impact activities or severe wrist injuries, consider applying a second layer of tape using the same wrapping technique.
13. Monitor Comfort: Throughout activity, monitor the comfort and fit of the strapping. If the tape feels too tight or uncomfortable, remove and reapply as needed to prevent discomfort or skin irritation.
14. Remove Carefully: When it’s time to remove the tape, carefully peel it off, starting from the anchor point. Pull gently and slowly to avoid causing any pain or skin irritation.

Strapping a wrist using rigid strapping tape is an effective way to provide support and stability, whether for athletic performance or injury prevention. By following these steps and ensuring proper tension and alignment, individuals can effectively protect their wrists and reduce the risk of injury during physical activity.