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There are different materials that you can buy to strap and support your elbow. Either trainer’s tape or kinesiology tape or tubular bandages can help limit your range of motion that is causing you discomfort, reduce stress on the injured tissue, and may allow more blood to flow to the injured area.  Trainer’s and kinesiology tape are often best for muscle injuries. The tape expands when you move, making the treatment comfortable and practical if you have an active lifestyle or continue to exercise.  If you have sensitive skin, consider trying quick release medical tape, which combines the strength of trainer’s and kinesiology tapes with less chance of irritating the skin during wear or removal.  Tubular medical bandages are wrapped around the affected area and then affixed with tape or a small fastener. This might also be a good option if you have sensitive skin. Tubular bandages are an especially good option for wrapping joints or even to cover tape.  You can purchase trainer’s and kinesiology tape and bandages at many pharmacies, medical supply stores, and sports stores. Some larger retailers may also carry it. Consider trying to strap your elbow with duct tape, which is as supportive as trainer’s or kinesiology tape.  Some professionals may recommend using black tape, as it can adhere better to sweaty skin. Purchase bandages to wrap, strap, and support your elbow. Bandages will support your elbow and they may also help to reduce any swelling you have.  You can use most types of medical wrap bandages at pharmacies, medical supply stores, and even some sports stores. Make sure to buy a bandage that is long enough to wrap your elbow enough to support and immobilize it. You will need to purchase medical tape or pins to keep the bandage in place. Prepare your arm skin for taping or bandaging by washing and shaving it, if necessary. This can not only help remove dirt and debris, make the tape stick more effectively, but also may prevent any discomfort when you remove the tape or bandage.  Wash away any oils, sweat or dirt that may be on your skin with a gentle cleanser and warm water. This can minimize the risk that the tape or bandage doesn’t adhere properly to your arm.  Any type of mild soap can effectively clean your arm. Make sure to rinse or wipe off all of the soap. If you have chosen not to use an underwrap (see next step) or have a lot of hair on your arm, you may want to shave your arm.  Shave with care to prevent cutting your skin and causing injury. If you prefer not to place the tape or bandage against your skin, place an underwrap between the tape and your skin. If you use an underwrap, be aware that it is not as effective as using tape only.  You do not have to use an underwrap or skin adhesives with tape or bandages.  Spray the skin adhesive and or apply the underwrap to the areas of your arm you plan to wrap.  You can buy underwrap and skin adhesive at most pharmacies, medical supply stores and some sports stores. You may need to cut the tape before you wrap your elbow depending on whether you bought strips or a round of tape. Pre-cutting the tape can help ensure you use the right amount and prevent you from wasting any tape.  Cut pieces of your tape to approximately the length of your forearm. You may also want some smaller pieces.  Rounding the edges of the tape can make it easier to apply.  If your tape has backing, remove it before application.

Summary:
Familiarize yourself with strapping options. Buy bandages for your elbow. Get your skin ready for taping or bandaging. Protect your skin before taping or bandaging. Cut the tape for application.