Find out more about the author, Joanne Stapensea, MA in Exercise Physiologist. Visit Joanne's website, theratape.com.

Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is one of the most common—and most frustrating—injuries among racquet sport players including tennis players and others who actively use the muscles of the forearm.  It is characterized by pain and tenderness over the outside of the elbow (lateral epicondyle), that may also radiate down the forearm. 

 Video of a Kinesio Taping Application for Acute Tennis Elbow -  Video Below

The video below shows chiropractor, Dr. Scott Swanson, demonstrating the proper technique for applying Kinesio Tape to someone with tennis elbow.

This application technique is designed to increase circulation to the overused extensor muscles of the forearm, helping to reduce inflammation. It also reduces the activation signals to these muscles, allowing them to relax and recover from the lateral epicondylitis condition.

Kinesio Taping for Tennis Elbow

Kinesio taping is an exciting new development in the treatment and management of tennis elbow. This thin, lightweight, stretchy tape can be worn 24/7 for several days, providing round-the-clock therapy and relief for stubborn cases of elbow pain.

Once applied, there is virtually no sensation from wearing kinesiology tape, and its elasticity allows it to provide helpful support without restricting range of motion.

This is one of the most important benefits of kinesiology tape to those who need to continue their activity while wearing it. 

Different Taping Techniques for Different Outcomes.

Different taping techniques can be used, depending on the desired outcome.

We will first look at how to apply kinesiology tape for an acute case of tennis elbow, followed by taping techniques for a more chronic condition.

In addition, one application will be based on using kinesiology tape from a roll, while the other will be based on using a pre-cut application designed specifically for the elbow.

Kinesiology Taping for Acute Tennis Elbow

Kinesio tape from theratape

Kinesio Tape - Bulk Roll

In the case of an acute injury with inflammation, the goal is to reduce inflammation and relax the overused muscles, allowing the healing process to begin.

To achieve this, the tape is applied from the insertion (wrist end) toward the origin (elbow end) of the forearm extensor muscles. Both the muscle and the tape are stretched during application to maximally enhance circulation and take pressure off of the inflamed muscle.

This type of taping would be most beneficial during the acute stages of tennis elbow when activity levels have been restricted. It will enhance and prolong the benefits of physical therapy when worn between therapy sessions.

Step by Step Instructions on how to apply Kinesio Tex Tape for Acute Tennis Elbow

The following technique is designed to reduce the inflammation in an acute case of tennis elbow and to help the muscle relax and recover. In this instance, the tape will be applied from the insertion (wrist end) toward the origin (elbow end) of the wrist extensor muscles.

Kinesio Tape Y Strip

1. Cut a “Y” strip of tape long enough to stretch from wrist to just below the elbow
2. Flex the wrist (palm toward inner side of wrist), then rotate it slightly to the outside.
3. Remove the backing from the first inch (anchor end) of tape and apply with no stretch on the back side of the wrist, immediately above the hand.
4. Remove the backing from one side of the “Y” and stretch the tape approximately 25% of it’s available stretch.
5. Carefully apply the tape along the inner border of the wrist flexors, ending just below the elbow.
6. Apply the final 1” of tape with no stretch. Rub tape to activate adhesive.
7. Remove the backing from the other side of the “Y” and stretch the tape approximately 25% of it’s available stretch.
8. Carefully apply the tape along the outer border of the wrist flexors, ending just below the elbow.
9. Apply the final 1” of tape with no stretch. Rub tape to activate adhesive.
10. Cut a strip of tape approximately 3” long.
11. Tear the tape backing in the middle of the tape and peel backing back 1” in each direction from the middle.
12. Stretch this part of the tape to add 40% to its resting length, then apply directly below the elbow, partially covering the ends of the Y strips
13. Rub tape to activate adhesive, then apply the ends of the tape with no stretch.