Welcome to our fifth week of Taping Tuesday, where physiotherapist and Pilates instructor Kaidee Arnold demonstrates how to tape the metacarpophalangeal joint of the thumb. This technique is often used to stabilise the joint following a sprain of the metacarpophalangeal joint and also when returning to sport post fracture or dislocation.
After watching the above video, the most important points to performing a thumb tape are summarised below. They are:
- Wrist and Thumb Position: Ensure the patient is holding their hand in the correct neutral position as if holding a drink.
- Work off the roll: Try to work off the roll and be careful not to pull too tightly when applying the tape. Elastic tape has a tendency to tighten when placed on top of itself, so be mindful not to cut off the circulation to the thumb.
- Change the angles: With each loop of the tape remember to slightly change the angle around the metacarpophalangeal joint, this will ensure the joint is appropriately supported.
- Lock off the tape with rigid tape around the loose ends of the elastic tape.
Tune in next week for another instalment of Taping Tuesday and remember we are always here to assess, treat and tape your musculoskeletal concerns. Give us a call on (08) 9384 3269 or book an appointment online.
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