AC Joint Injury Taping

The following guidelines are for information purposes only. We recommend seeking professional advice before attempting any rehabilitation.

The aim of this taping is to support the AC joint by applying pressure down onto the clavicle. Always ensure when taping that you apply the tape smoothly so there are as few creases and lines in the tape as possible.

What is required?

• 2.5cm zinc oxide tape
• 5cm Elastic Adhesive bandage

Step 1:

• First apply two or three strips of 2.5cm (or 2 strips of 3.8cm) zinc oxide tape over the top of the shoulder, making sure they are covering the AC joint. This will provide an anchor for the support strip to attach to.

Step 2:

• Next pass a support strip of tape from the front of the shoulder, down the side of the arm. Apply tension to the tape as you do so. Pass it under the elbow and back up to the top of the shoulder. This support strip will help pull the AC joint down.

Step 3:

• Secure the support strip with a piece elastic adhesive bandage (EAB) .Get the patient to tense the bicep muscle as you apply the tape to allow for muscle expansion.
• Cut away the excess tape from below the EAB strip.