How to Tape Injured Thumbs

While a mildly injured or sprained thumb isn't a serious ailment, it is necessary to protect the your thumb from further damage by wrapping it with medical tape and a thumb splint. This keeps the thumb in place which, in turn, provides the thumb muscle ligaments enough time to heal. Avoid sports or other extreme movements while your thumb is healing. If you suspect your thumb is broken, visit a medical professional before wrapping it yourself.

Step 1

Hold your hand with the injured thumb up so the palm is facing you.

Step 2

Start the tape at the top of the wrist and roll it down and then behind the back of the hand.

Step 3

Roll the tape over the top of your hand between your index finger and thumb.

Step 4

Roll the tape down across the palm toward the wrist. Wrap the tape around the wrist once to create a full circle.

Step 5

Cut the tape and secure it. Repeat these steps one more time for extra support.

Step 6

Place a short splint against the interior of the thumb to prevent the thumb from bending. If you don't have a medical splint, use a piece of cardboard or similar.

Step 7

Repeat steps one through four several times, slowly working your way higher up the thumb. Stop taping once you've reached the thumb knuckle.

Things You'll Need

• 3.5 cm. medical tape

• Scissors

• Splint

Tip

Use an ice pack on your thumb three to four times a day to help with pain and swelling, suggests MDAdvice.com.