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Neck taping

Learn how to tape a stiff neck with kinesiology tape

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

CureTape — How to tape for a stiff neck

Do you have tight neck muscles, frequent headaches, or pain when turning your head? This taping method can help provide relief. Watch the video and follow the step-by-step instructions to see how it’s done.

There are many reasons why neck muscles can become stiff and movement restricted. Poor posture, muscle strain, stress, exposure to cold draughts, or conditions such as arthritis can all be contributing factors. Applying CureTape may ease these symptoms. Follow the guidance on this page, and since the neck is a difficult area to reach, it is advisable to ask someone to help you with the application.

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

Self-taping for a stiff neck

Tips to ensure your neck taping treatment is safe and effective:

Is the cause of the pain or discomfort clear?

Read the instructions carefully before you start taping.

Choose the tape colour you prefer.

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

Rub the tape firmly to improve adhesion.

Check for any contraindications before applying tape.

On average, the tape will stay in place for three to five days.

You can shower while wearing the tape.

Removing the tape is easier when using a little oil.

Preparation

Preparation for taping a stiff neck

Shape
1 strip of approximately 25 cm, cut about 20 cm down the middle to create a Y-shape
Number of strips
1
Technique
muscle technique with the neck placed in a stretched position while applying the tape to both the left and right sides

Measuring

Measuring and cutting the tape

 

Step1

Measure & Cut

  1. Cut one strip of tape, about 25 cm long, into a Y-shape with a 5 cm base. Round off all ends to improve adhesion. Choose the tape colour you prefer. The colour shown here is just an example.

Application

Applying CureTape for neck complaints

Step2

Step 2

  1. Sit with your neck slightly bent forward, chin towards your chest.

Step3

Step 3

  1. Tear the release paper at the split of the two strips and remove the backing from the base.

Step4

Step 4

  1. Apply the anchor at the upper thoracic vertebrae.

Step5

Step 5

  1. Apply the right strip without stretch while tilting your head down to the left.
  2. Repeat on the other side, tilting your head down to the right.
  3. Rub the tape firmly to ensure better adhesion.

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Advice from Christina on taping a stiff neck

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

For these self-taping instructions, I have selected applications that are simple enough to apply on your own. With neck taping, however, it is usually advisable to have someone assist you. To ensure the treatment is carried out safely, I share practical tips to keep in mind before, during, and after taping. These are based on my many years of professional experience. If your symptoms persist, always seek advice from 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.