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How do you wrap a calf leg?

Published in Calf Wrapping 2 mins read

To wrap a calf leg, especially when dealing with a strain, you can use kinesiology tape with a specific technique as shown in the provided reference.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying Kinesiology Tape for Calf Strain

The video reference (STRENGTHTAPE® | Kinesiology Tape | Calf Strain - YouTube) demonstrates how to apply kinesiology tape for a calf strain. Here's a breakdown of the technique:

Preparation:

  • Clean the Skin: Ensure the calf area is clean and dry. Any lotion or oils can hinder the tape's adhesive properties.
  • Measure the Tape: Cut the kinesiology tape to the required length. It should be long enough to cover the strained muscle.

Application Steps:

  1. Anchor the Base:
    • Begin by tearing the backing paper of the tape about an inch from one end.
    • Remove the exposed paper at the end creating a base.
    • Apply the end of the tape (the base) to the lower part of the leg, near the heel or ankle without stretching the tape.
  2. Apply the Tape:
    • Continue applying the tape up the calf muscle with no stretch in the tape itself.
    • Follow the natural line of the calf muscle.
  3. Inner Calf Muscle:
    • When you reach the inner calf muscle, twist the tape slightly.
    • Continue applying the tape up the muscle following its natural contours.
  4. Final Base:
    • Apply the end of the tape without any stretch.

Key Considerations:

  • No Stretch at Bases: It is very important to apply the beginning and end of the tape without any stretch. This will allow the tape to be properly secured.
  • Tape Orientation: Ensure that the tape follows the direction of the calf muscle being supported.
  • Even Pressure: Apply even pressure as you lay down the tape.

Summary of the Process

Step Action Stretch
1 Create base at lower calf by removing backing from a small part of the end and applying to the skin. None
2 Lay tape up calf following muscle, removing backing as you go. None
3 Slightly twist tape as you move to the inner calf muscle. None
4 Finish by anchoring the top of tape with no stretch. None

By following these steps, you can effectively wrap a calf leg using kinesiology tape, as shown in the reference video.