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Wrist Taping

Learn how kinesiology tape can help relieve carpal tunnel syndrome

Follow our step-by-step kinesiology taping guide — at home.

CureTape — How to tape carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS)

Looking for a taping method to support your wrist with carpal tunnel syndrome? In this article, we’ll guide you step by step on how to apply kinesiology tape for CTS-related symptoms.

In the middle of the wrist runs a narrow tunnel through which nerves and tendons pass. This space can become narrowed, irritated, or inflamed. For carpal tunnel syndrome, CureTape elastic kinesiology tape can be applied to reduce pressure on the median nerve. This technique shows you how to place a strip of tape along the forearm and wrist to relieve pressure while keeping the hand in a neutral position.

This taping application can help with:

  • Pain
  • Swelling
  • Tingling sensations
  • Wrist stability

Can be applied for the following conditions:

  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Wrist tendinitis (inflammation of the wrist tendons)
  • Tenosynovitis (inflammation of the tendon sheath)
  • Wrist stability support

Jump to: Preparation · Measuring · Application

Benefits

This taping method may help with:

Relieve pain

Reduce tension and discomfort in the affected area

Support the tissue

Gentle stabilisation during movement and recovery

Improve movement

More comfortable daily activities during recovery

Support recovery

Allow overloaded tissue to recover while staying active

Conditions

It can be applied for:

Overuse complaints

Pain from repetitive strain or prolonged activity

Acute injury support

Additional stability after sudden strain or sprain

Sports-related pain

Support during training and return to sport

Daily discomfort

Relief during walking, standing, or daily tasks

Video Guide

Wrist taping for carpal tunnel syndrome – video tutorial

Tips for a successful taping treatment:

Is the cause of the pain or complaint clear?

Carefully review the instructions before you start taping.

Choose the tape color you prefer.

Do not apply stretch at the beginning or end of the tape.

Rub the tape firmly to activate the adhesive.

Check for any contraindications before taping.

On average, the tape will stay in place for three to seven days.

You can shower while wearing the tape.

Removing the tape is easier with a little oil.

Preparation

Preparation before taping the wrist for carpal tunnel syndrome

Shape
One long I-strip of approximately 20 cm for the forearm and one small I-strip of approximately 10 cm for around the wrist. Round off all ends.
Number of strips
2.
Technique
One strip is applied using a muscle technique and the other with a ligament technique (with stretch).

Measuring

Measuring and cutting the kinesiology tape

 

Measure & Cut

  1. Measure the circumference of the wrist for the small I-strip, leaving a gap about three fingers wide.

Application

Applying the tape

Step1

Step 1

  1. Tear the backing paper of the I-strip about 5 cm from the end and remove it. Keep the arm in a slightly stretched position. Place the anchor on the palm, then remove the rest of the paper up to the final 5 cm. Apply the tape with light tension toward the elbow. Remove the last piece of paper and secure the anchor without stretch. Rub the tape firmly to activate the adhesive.

Step2

Step 2

  1. Tear the backing paper in the middle of the small I-strip and fold it back toward both anchors. Apply the tape to the center of the wrist using a ligament technique (with strong stretch). Then place the two ends (anchors) without stretch toward the top of the wrist. Make sure to leave about a two-finger-wide gap on the opposite side of the wrist.

Step3

Final result

  1. This is the final result of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). Rub the kinesiology tape well to ensure it sticks properly.

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Christina’s advice on taping a wrist with carpal tunnel syndrome

When taping your wrist, it’s crucial to choose a tape that provides strong adhesion and support. That’s why I recommend CureTape kinesiology tape. For regular use, CureTape Classic or Art is ideal. However, if you’re engaging in extreme sports or swimming, opt for the extra sticky CureTape Sports variant! I have selected practical, easy-to-follow self-taping applications alongside a few valuable tips from clinical experience. For an optimal recovery, remember to combine this taping with specific wrist exercises, and always consult a physiotherapist or GP if your symptoms persist.

For the self-taping instructions, I’ve selected applications that are simple to apply on your own by following the step-by-step guide. To ensure the treatment is safe, I provide practical tips to keep in mind before, during, and after taping. These recommendations are based on my many years of clinical experience. If your symptoms continue, always consult a physical therapist or physician.

Christina Peter

Christina Peter
Physiotherapist & Taping Instructor
Christina Peter

Disclaimer: Please note: the suggested tape applications and the information on our website regarding the possibilities of the Medical Taping Concept are not yet scientifically proven. The stated claims are based primarily on extensive experience from therapists and users of CureTape® products. No rights can be derived from the content on this website.

Contraindications for not using tape: pregnancy, open wounds, bone fractures, unexplained complaints, allergies and skin conditions, medication use such as blood thinners, thrombosis, and fever. Always consult a medical professional if in doubt.