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Home / How to tape / Knee Taping / How to tape an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury

How to tape an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury

Are you dealing with an overstretched ACL, recovering from surgery, or simply looking for more stability in your knee? Then this taping method could be a helpful solution.

ACL problems can occur after a sprain, partial tear, or as part of the recovery process following reconstruction surgery. On this page, you’ll find a taping technique designed to support the ligament so your knee feels more stable and secure while healing.

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Tips to make ACL taping more effective:

First, make sure the cause of your knee pain or discomfort is clear.
Read the taping instructions carefully before you begin.
Select the tape color you like best.
Do not apply any stretch to the starting and ending points of the tape.
Firmly rub the tape after application to activate the adhesive.
Check if there are any reasons why taping might not be suitable for you.
On average, the tape can stay on the skin for 3–5 days.
You can safely shower while wearing the tape.
For easier removal, apply a bit of oil to loosen the tape.

Preparation before taping the ACL

Tape

Shape: I-tape
Number of strips: 1 strip of approximately 25 cm
Technique: Ligament technique with around 50% stretch in the middle section and no stretch on the anchors.

Measuring and cutting the tape

Step

Cut a strip of tape measuring about 25 cm. Round the edges with scissors to reduce the chance of the tape peeling off too soon and to ensure better adhesion during movement.

Taping the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)

Step

Sit down with your knee bent.
Tear the backing paper in the center and fold it back toward both ends.
Apply the middle section of the tape with about 75% stretch, starting just below the kneecap so that it slightly overlaps the patella.
While applying, gently press the knee downward in a smooth motion and allow the tape to follow the curve.
Secure the anchor ends without stretch, placing them to the left and right of the knee toward the thigh.
Finally, rub the tape firmly to activate the adhesive and ensure it sticks well.

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Advice from Christina on taping the ACL

For the self-taping guidelines, I’ve chosen techniques that can be applied independently without too much difficulty. To ensure the process is both safe and effective, I provide practical advice on what to consider before, during, and after taping. These recommendations are based on my extensive hands-on experience. This particular taping method offers supportive relief for an ACL injury. If you have questions about the application, or if your symptoms don’t improve, always seek guidance from a qualified therapist or physician.

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.