Strapping tape comes in a variety of materials, sizes, brands and colours making it difficult to choose the correct tape for your situation?

We have produced a summary of commonly used strapping tapes to remove the guess work for you.

Rigid Strapping Tape

Description: Strong tape, which is resistant to stretch. Most commonly used tape by physios.

Colour: Tan/skin colour

Size: 38mm and 50mm width

Use:

Joint stability – Used to aid in the prevention of joint sprains and also to provide protection to joints post injury.

Posture – Strong postural support for people with back or neck pain to prevent undesired movement/positions.

Arch Support – For conditions like plantar fasciitis and shin splints.

Pros: Very strong, restricts undesired movement

Cons: Occasional skin reactions

Kinesio Tape (Rock Tape)

Description: Elastic or stretchy tapecommonly used in athletic sports.

Colour: Multiple colours and patterns

Size: 50mm and 100mm width

Use:

Joint and Muscle Support – Used to provide mild support(proprioception) to joints and muscles without restricting movement.

Posture – Mild postural supportfor people with back or neck pain to improve awarenessof undesired movement/positions.

Pros: Hypoallergenic (less likely to cause a skin reaction), allows normal movement

Cons: Only mild support

Fixomull

Description: Slightly elastic woven tape commonly used as under-tapeby physios and for wound protection in the medical field.

Colour: White

Size: 50mm or 100mm width

Use: Protective under-tape before application of rigid strapping tape.

Pros: Hypoallergic (unlikely to cause a skin reaction), slight stretch ensuring comfort and lasting adhesion to the skin.

Cons: No significant support if used in isolation

Summary

Rigid strapping tape, preferably with a fixomull under layer for maximum support to prevent or protect injuries.

Kinesio or Rock Tape for mild support or to provide increased awareness of movement.

Our Duncraig Physio clinic provides professional taping services at no out of pocket expense to you if you have private health insurance. Call us on 9447 6152 or book an appointment online today if you require strapping.