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Learn how to relieve lower back pain (lumbago) with kinesiology tape

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

CureTape — How to tape for lower back pain (lumbago) or sudden lower back pain


Have you been struck by sudden, intense lower back pain? Does it feel as though your back has “seized up”? If so, there’s a strong chance you are dealing with lumbago or acute back strain. Would you like to know how to tape your lower back at home to relieve these symptoms? In this article, we’ll show you step by step, with clear instructions and photos, how to do it yourself.

Lumbago refers to acute pain in the lower back, usually brought on by muscle spasms in the affected area. The discomfort often worsens when bending, lifting, or sitting for long periods.
Back strain, on the other hand, is typically triggered by a sudden awkward movement, heavy work, or overloading the back, resulting in muscle spasms and sharp pain.

The taping method described here can be applied to both conditions. It provides gentle but effective support throughout the recovery period, which usually lasts a few days. Taping also works very well in combination with exercises that reduce pressure on the lower back.

Jump to: Preparation  ·  Measuring & cutting  ·  Application


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

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

Self-taping for lower back pain caused by lumbago or back strain

Tips to ensure your lower back taping treatment goes smoothly:

Is the cause of the pain or discomfort clear?

Carefully review the instructions before you start taping.

Choose the tape colour you prefer.

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

Rub the tape well to ensure proper adhesion.

Check whether there are any contraindications for taping.

On average, the tape will remain in place for 3–5 days.

You can shower while wearing the tape.

Removing the tape is easier with a little oil.

Preparation for taping lower back pain caused by lumbago or back strain

Shape
Two I-strips of tape, each approximately 25 cm in length
Number of strips
2
Technique
muscle technique, with the strips applied while the back is bent

Measuring and cutting the tape

 

Measure & Cut

  1. Cut two strips of tape, each approximately 25 cm in length, and round off the edges to help the tape adhere more effectively.
  2. Choose a tape colour that suits you best. The colour shown in this example is only for demonstration.
  3. If you prefer not to cut the tape yourself, try our MyCureTape® Sports PRE-CUT which comes with perfectly pre-cut 25 cm strips.

Applying the tape to the lower back

Step2

Step 2

  1. Sit on a stool or stand upright. Tear the release paper about 5 cm from the starting point.

Step3

Step 3

  1. Remove the backing from the base and apply the first strip diagonally across the sacrum, just above the buttock crease.

Step4

Step 4

  1. Bend your back and apply the strip without stretch along the lower spine, gradually removing the backing paper as you go.

Step5

Step 5

  1. Repeat the first three steps on the left side.

Step6

Step 6

  1. Rub the tape firmly to ensure better adhesion.

Step7

Step 7

  1. Here you can see the end result of this tape application.

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Advice from Christina on taping the lower back

When taping your back, 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 back mobility and core exercises, and always consult a physiotherapist or GP if your symptoms persist.

For these self-taping instructions, I have selected applications that are straightforward to apply. When taping the back, however, it is advisable to have someone assist you. To ensure the treatment is carried out safely, I share practical tips to consider before, during, and after taping. These are based on my many years of professional experience. If your symptoms persist, always consult a therapist or your GP.

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.