Okay, so the other day I was playing tennis, and man, did my elbow start acting up. I think I’ve got what they call “tennis elbow.” It’s pretty sore, and I’ve heard that using KT tape can help. So, I decided to give it a try. I’m no expert, but I’m going to share how I taped my elbow with KT tape, and hopefully, it helps someone else out there.
First, I grabbed my roll of KT tape. I picked this stuff up a while back, thinking it might come in handy. I watched a few videos online to get a general idea, because using it for the first time can be quite confusing. I started to figure out how to do this whole taping thing. These videos mention using ultrasound, breaking up stuff, and being minimally invasive. I guess that’s what they do in hospitals, but I’m just trying to do this at home.
Get the Tape Ready
I cut two strips of tape. One was about 10 inches long, and the other was a bit shorter, maybe 6 inches. The idea is to support the muscles around the elbow. I think it’s like giving the elbow a little hug so it doesn’t have to work so hard.
Apply the First Strip
I took the longer strip and tore the paper backing in the middle. Then I stretched it out a bit, not too much, maybe like 50%. I stuck the middle part on the outside of my elbow, right where it hurts the most. This is where the inflammation is supposed to be, on the outside part of the elbow. I then laid down the ends of the tape without any stretch. It felt weird, but it seemed like it was in the right place.
Apply the Second Strip
Next, I grabbed the shorter strip. I did the same thing: tore the paper in the middle and stretched it out. I placed this one just below the first strip, kind of overlapping a little. Again, I stuck the ends down without stretching. It’s important not to pull too hard on the tape ends, just let them rest on the skin. I pressed down firmly on the tape to ensure good adhesion.
Check It Out
After I got both strips on, I moved my arm around a bit. It felt a little more supported, like the tape was helping to hold things together. I don’t know the science behind it. I guess it’s supposed to help with pain relief and support, but I can say it felt different, in a good way.
Testing It
I tried doing some of the movements that usually make my elbow hurt. It wasn’t a miracle cure or anything, but it did seem to help a little. The pain was still there, but it wasn’t as sharp. I think I got some relief. I’m going to keep using the tape for a few days and see how it goes. I might have to try this a few more times to really get the hang of it.
So, that’s my experience with taping my tennis elbow with KT tape. It’s not perfect, and I’m definitely not a pro, but I think it’s worth a shot if you’re dealing with elbow pain. Just remember to be careful and maybe watch a few tutorials online before you start. Hope this helps someone out there!
- Cut two strips of tape
- Apply the longer strip to the outside of the elbow
- Apply the shorter strip just below the first one
- Move your arm to check the support
- Test it with movements that usually cause pain
Good luck, and take it easy on that elbow!
