How to apply KT Tape: Finger jam

Finger jams occur when a blunt force is applied to a join of the finger. The force is generally directly into the tip of the finger and combined with hyperextension of the joint. Ligaments and other soft tissue surrounding the joint are stretched or torn resulting in significant pain. Swelling, bruising, and loss of motion typically accompanies the pain.

KT Tape can help stabilize the joint without locking it down, allowing for comfort and promoting healing to occur more rapidly*. It is more important to diagnose the sprain so that fractures or dislocations can be rules out or treated effectively. Failure to do so could result in loss of movement or chronic pain. Rest, ice, and NSAIDs can be very helpful in treating both the inflammation and the pain. If the pain does not subside within the first 12 hours and a medical professional has not been consulted, see a clinician to properly diagnose the sprain and identify any fractures or dislocations.

Application overview

“Jammed Finger” is a term that refers to the many injuries of the ligaments and soft tissue around the small joints of the fingers. Jammed fingers are very common in ball handling sports or activities where there is a high degree of catching objects. Finger jams occur when a compressive force hits the end of the finger, causing inflammation and pain in the joint. KT Tape stabilizes the joint without immobilizing it.

What you need

1 strip of KT TAPE
1 full 25cm strip cut in half vertically

Apply before activity

Apply one hour before beginning activity

Clean skin

Clean dirt, oils and lotions from area

Activate adhesive

After application rub tape vigorously to activate adhesive

Body position

Hold your finger in a slightly flexed position, palm down.

PREPARE: 1 strip halved lengthwise and half of one resulting strip

0% stretch

Place your anchor with no stretch over your nail and fingertip, directing the strip away from your hand.

25% stretch

Control the anchor with an adjacent finger, turn your hand palm up and apply a moderate stretch directing the strip over the front of your finger and palm, toward and onto your wrist.

0% stretch

Apply the last two inches with no stretch. Now, as you slowly extend your finger, apply the tape down onto the skin of your palm and finger.

0% stretch

Next, take 1 small strip of tape tear the backing in the middle. Apply with no stretch on the front of your finger just beyond the painful joint.

25% stretch

With your finger flexed, apply moderate stretch and direct one end of the tape over the side of the painful joint.

0% stretch

Apply the last two inches with no stretch on the top of the finger above the joint. Repeat steps to apply the other end of the strip.

CAUTION: If you have skin sensitivities, cancer, or are pregnant, consult your doctor before use. Discontinue use if skin becomes irritated or sore. KT TAPE® is not a replacement for professional medical care. Warranties and remedies limited to product replacement cost. READ ALL CAUTIONS ON ENCLOSED INSTRUCTION SHEET PRIOR TO USE.