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Home / How to tape / Hand and Finger Taping / How to tape a sprained thumb or for skier’s thumb

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.

MyCureTape® Sports 3-Roll Combi Pack

€ 17,95

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.

Preparing to tape a skier’s thumb or sprained thumb

Tape

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

Measuring and cutting the tape

Step

Sit at a table and measure the strips by moving them in a circular path around the thumb towards the back of the hand.
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.

Applying the tape to your thumb

Step

Place the base of the first strip on the outer, upper side of the thumb joint without any stretch.
Once the base is fixed, spread the thumb slightly and apply the tape diagonally around the thumb with firm tension.
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.
Repeat the process with the second strip, 2.5 cm wide, positioning it slightly overlapping the first for extra stability.

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.

Popular products

CureTape® Classic

€ 9,95

CureTape® Sports Extra Sticky

€ 10,95

MyCureTape® Sports 3-Roll Combi Pack

€ 17,95

CureTape® The Ultimate Kinesiology Taping Guide

€ 17,95

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

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

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.