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Hand and Finger Taping

Learn how to tape a sprained thumb or skier’s thumb with kinesiology tape

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

CureTape — How to tape a sprained thumb or for skier’s thumb

Would you like to know how to tape a sprained thumb or skier’s thumb yourself? In this article, we’ll explain the process step by step.

A sprained thumb needs to be supported and stabilised. During a fall or while playing sports, for example when catching a ball, the thumb can easily become overstretched. This often affects the inner collateral ligament, which plays a key role in keeping the joint stable. The result is pain and reduced mobility of the thumb. If you sustain such an injury, always have the stability of the thumb assessed by a professional. Using elastic kinesiology tape can help to relieve strain and provide a basic level of support.

Jump to: Preparation  ·  Measuring & cutting  ·  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

How to self-tape a skier’s thumb or sprained thumb

Tips for a safe and effective taping of a skier’s thumb or sprained thumb:

Has the cause of the pain or complaint been clearly identified?

Read the instructions carefully before starting to tape.

Select the tape colour that suits you best.

Avoid applying stretch at the beginning and end of the tape.

Rub the tape firmly after application to ensure good adhesion.

Check for any contraindications before using tape.

On average, the tape will stay in place for 3–7 days.

It is possible to shower while wearing the tape.

Tape removal is easier when using a little oil.

Preparation

Preparing to tape a skier’s thumb or sprained thumb

Shape
2 narrow customised I-strips
Number of strips
2
Technique
Muscle technique (applied with firm stretch for supportive effect)

Measuring

Measuring and cutting the tape

 

Step1

Measure & Cut

  1. Sit at a table and measure the strips by moving them in a circular path around the thumb towards the back of the hand.
  2. To ensure a proper fit, cut the strips lengthwise: the first should be about 1 cm wide and the second around 2.5 cm wide.

Application

Applying the tape to your thumb

Step2

Step 2

  1. Place the base of the first strip on the outer, upper side of the thumb joint without any stretch.

Step3

Step 3

  1. Once the base is fixed, spread the thumb slightly and apply the tape diagonally around the thumb with firm tension.

Step4

Step 4

  1. Lay the anchor across the back of the hand with less stretch and extend it towards the wrist. Rub the tape well to secure it.

Step5

Step 5

  1. Repeat the process with the second strip, 2.5 cm wide, positioning it slightly overlapping the first for extra stability.

Step6

Step 6

  1. Apply the tape with a firm stretch around the thumb and with a less stretch on the back of the hand.

Step7

This is the final result

  1. Here you can see the final result of how to tape a sprained thumb or for skier’s thumb. Rub the tape well for better adhesion.

Something to look out for

Experience shows that tape applied to the hand area tends to come loose more quickly, meaning it often needs to be replaced more frequently. The sports version of CureTape, made from viscose and offering 25% more adhesive strength, is particularly well suited for use on hands and feet. You can also extend the durability of the taping by wearing a glove.

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Christina’s advice on taping a skier’s thumb or sprained thumb

When taping your hand and fingers, 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 hand 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 perform on your own. To keep the treatment safe, I share practical guidance on what to consider before, during and after taping. These tips are based on my many years of professional experience. If your symptoms do not improve, always consult a physiotherapist 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.