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Home / How to tape / Arm Taping / How to tape for tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis)

How to tape for tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis)

Would you like to know how to tape your elbow for tennis elbow? In this article, we’ll guide you step by step through the process.

Do you experience pain on the outside of your elbow? This could be a sign of tennis elbow. The condition, medically referred to as lateral epicondylitis, occurs when the tendon attachment on the outer elbow becomes inflamed, usually as a result of repetitive strain. Common causes include monotonous, repetitive actions such as playing tennis, pruning hedges, DIY or renovation tasks, or even regular cleaning work. These activities can overload the extensor muscles of the forearm and, over time, irritate the tendon insertion that connects them to the elbow bone. The outcome is a sharp, radiating pain on the outside of the elbow, often spreading into the forearm. It may flare up during everyday tasks such as gripping, lifting, or writing.

The taping method described here can help ease the strain on the irritated tendon and give the overworked muscles some much-needed relief.

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Self-taping for tennis elbow

Tips for a successful tennis elbow taping treatment:

Has the underlying cause of the pain or discomfort been identified?
Carefully read through the instructions before you start taping.
Choose the tape colour you prefer.
Avoid applying any stretch at the start and end of the tape.
Rub the tape firmly after application to improve adhesion.
Check if there are any contraindications before taping.
On average, the tape will remain in place for 3–7 days.
You can shower while wearing the tape.
Removing the tape is easier when using a little oil.

Preparing to tape for tennis elbow

Tape

Shape: 1 customised I-strip and 1 smaller I-strip.
Number of strips: 2.
Technique: Muscle technique (relaxing application applied with light stretch)

Measuring and cutting the tape

Step

Sit at a table and measure the first strip along the forearm in a stretched position, starting from the back of the hand up to just above the elbow. Keep the elbow extended and the wrist bent downwards.
For the second strip, measure from the elbow to the midpoint of the inner forearm.

Applying the tape to the arm

Step

Place the anchor of the first strip on the back of the hand without stretch, keeping the wrist relaxed.
Gently extend the elbow while bending the wrist downwards.
Apply the tape with light tension along the forearm towards the elbow and smooth it down carefully.
Position the base of the second strip without stretch on the slightly bent outer elbow and secure it gently.
Apply the strip in one continuous motion: slowly rotate the arm outward while extending it at the same time.
During this movement, lay the tape over the forearm with a light stretch.
Make sure the tape lies flat without skin folds, then rub it firmly to ensure good adhesion.

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Christina’s advice on taping for tennis elbow

For this self-taping method, I have chosen an application that is straightforward to carry out on your own. If a therapist has already demonstrated the technique, this page can serve as a useful reference when applying the tape yourself. To keep the treatment safe, I share practical tips to follow before, during and after taping, based on my many years of professional experience. For quicker recovery, combine taping with stretching and mobility exercises. If the pain persists, always seek advice from a physiotherapist or your GP.

Christina Peter

Physiotherapist and Taping Instructor

Disclaimer:
Please note: we emphasize that the suggested tape applications and the information on our website regarding the possibilities of the Medical Taping Concept are not yet scientifically proven. The statements and examples mentioned are based on years of experience from patients and trained therapists.

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 specialist before applying tape in these cases.