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USP101X Applying taping and strapping to support and limit specific movement in sport and active leisure

Unit reference number: K/507/5584

Level: 3

Guided Learning (GL) hours: 30

Overview

The unit provides learners with the knowledge and skills to apply taping and strapping to support and limit specific movement in the prevention and management of injuries. Learners will develop their knowledge of the indications and contra-indications for taping and strapping and the physical, physiological and psychological effects of these techniques. Learners will also develop their knowledge of the risks and adverse effects associated with taping and strapping the precautions to take to reduce risk. Learners will be able to prepare for and apply taping and strapping, safely and effectively, to support and limit specific movement.

Learning outcomes

On completion of this unit, learners will: LO1 Know the indications, contra-indications and precautions for taping and strapping

LO2 Know the physical, physiological and psychological effects of taping and strapping

LO3 Know the risks and adverse effects associated with taping and strapping

LO4 Be able to prepare for taping and strapping techniques

LO5 Be able to apply taping and strapping techniques

Version 8

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Assessment requirements

Learners must produce a portfolio of evidence which includes:

1. Treatment portfolio 2. Practical summative assessment

1. Treatment portfolio

Learners must produce a treatment portfolio which contains assessed evidence covering all the theory assessment criteria in the unit. The portfolio must also contain evidence relating to the practical assessment criteria. At a minimum the treatment portfolio for this unit must include treatment records covering all of the following:

Completed a minimum of 4 treatments covering application of taping and strapping techniques should be recorded in the portfolio.

Completed the application of taping and strapping techniques for a minimum of 4 intended purposes

- Pain reduction

- Injury or re-injury prevention

- Biomechanical correction

- Increased stability of anatomical structures

- Reducing strain on damaged tissues (unloading)

- Compression (oedema reduction)

- Lymphatic drainage

Completed the application of taping and strapping techniques using a minimum of 5 taping and strapping materials

- Zinc oxide

- Elastic adhesive bandages

- Kinesiology tape

- Cohesive bandages

- Underwrap

- Fixation tape

- Elastic non-adhesive bandages

Completed records containing all of the following information - Indications for taping and strapping

- Contra-indications (if applicable)

- Treatment plan

- Information given to client

- Informed consent from client

- Assessment of client presentations, e.g. injury, psychological need

- Taping techniques applied

- Adverse effects (if applicable)

- Outcome of treatment

- Aftercare/homecare advice

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Evidence from one summative practical assessment must also be presented in the service portfolio. The treatment portfolio must be completed prior to learners undertaking the one summative practical assessment.

2. Practical summative assessment

Learners must carry out a complete taping and strapping application that will be observed, and marked by centre assessors. Learners must achieve all assessment criteria in order to pass and achieve the unit. The summative practical assessment must take place in a real or realistic working environment on a real or realistic client. At a minimum the summative practical assessment for this unit must cover:

Preparation of equipment and treatment area

Preparation and assessment of client

Application of a taping and strapping treatment

Recording of all information Recorded professional discussion can also be used as an assessment method attached to the practical assessment and is particularly useful for gathering evidence for criteria related to evaluation and reflection. Professional discussions should be planned and recorded.

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Unit content

LO1 Know the indications, contra-indications and precautions for taping and strapping

Explain the indications for taping and strapping:

Soft tissue injuries

Psychological needs

Instability/weakness

Mechanical restriction

Facilitate client comfort

Increase confidence

Physical support

Proprioceptive enhancement

Influence joint biomechanics

Facilitate rehabilitation and return to activity

Alleviate pain

Facilitate lymph and circulatory flow (kinesiology taping) Explain the contra-indications and precautions for taping and strapping:

Contraindications for taping and strapping - Skin allergy or sensitivity to tape

- Sensory loss to area or area distal to area being taped

- Circulatory conditions

- Open wounds

- Skin infections or conditions, e.g. dermatitis

- Fragile skin or sensitive skin, e.g. prone to bruising

Precautions for taping and strapping - Peripheral vascular disease

- Peripheral neuropathies

- Diabetes

- Prolonged use of anti-coagulant medication

- Mental incapacity or cognitive loss where client is unable to report side effects

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LO2 Know the physical, physiological and psychological effects of taping and strapping

Describe the physical and physiological effects of taping and strapping techniques:

Reduction of oedema (compression)

Reduction of strain on soft tissues (de-loading/unloading)

Displacement of subcutaneous tissue

Increasing interstitial space

Increasing circulatory flow

Relieving pressure on nociceptors

Stimulate cutaneous receptors

Stimulate muscle and joint mechanoreceptors

Muscle facilitation and or inhibition

Limit range of movement

Altering joint positions Describe the psychological effects of taping and strapping:

Increased confidence, e.g. security that the area is protected

Decreased stress and anxiety about injury or re-injury

Mental preparation

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LO3 Know the risks and adverse effects associated with taping and strapping

Describe possible risks and adverse reactions to taping and strapping techniques:

Redness

Breakdown of skin

Damage to fragile skin

Blisters

Friction burns

Skin irritation

Adhesive or irritant contact dermatitis

Allergies to latex

Muscle aggravation

Excessive limitation of movement

Impaired circulation

Decrease in proprioception

Re-injury

Muscle stiffness

Folliculitis

Discomfort and pain

Fungal infection

Ineffective adhesive

Over-reliance on taping technique Describe precautions to reduce risk when applying taping and strapping techniques:

Precautions - Use of underwrap, padding and felt

- Choice of latex free taping techniques (kinesiology taping)

- Monitor taping application

- Monitor circulation distal to taping

- Use of cleansing agents and adhesive sprays

- Use of safety scissors and tape cutters

- Check for contra-indications

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LO4 Be able to prepare for taping and strapping techniques

Devise a treatment plan for taping and strapping techniques:

Assess client to confirm indications for taping and strapping techniques

Gather information on possible contra-indications/precautions/risks to application of taping and strapping techniques

Select appropriate method of taping and strapping for the client

Consult or refer to other healthcare professional where necessary Prepare self and treatment area for taping and strapping techniques:

Prepare self

Adhere to professional standards in terms of personal hygiene, dress, appearance and attitude

Ensure treatment area is clean, comfortable and prepared in advance

Ensure equipment meets requirements for hygiene and health and safety

Take appropriate measures to control any risk of cross-infection Select and prepare equipment and resources for application of taping and strapping techniques:

Select and prepare all equipment, products and resources needed for the treatment

Ensure cleanliness, comfort and dignity for the client

Ensure resources for protection of client are available, e.g. appropriate tape, under wrap, padding and felt, adhesive spray, safety scissors

Carry out safety checks on equipment

Check all equipment is working efficiently with no damage

Ensure the plinth is stable and at correct height, ensure the positioning of other equipment and resources is within easy access

Check positioning of client, supports, pillows and props, use of couch roll and cleansing agents

Prepare the client for application of taping and strapping techniques:

Follow guidelines for the presence of a chaperone where necessary

Assess client, to confirm indications and intended purposes of taping and strapping

Gather information on possible dangers of, and contra-indications/precautions/risks to taping and strapping techniques

Removal of jewellery

Removal of hair (if appropriate)

Give full and detailed information to client, gain informed consent

Cleanse/prepare body areas for treatment

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LO5 Be able to apply taping and strapping techniques

Position the client to ensure their comfort, dignity and safety throughout the treatment:

Position the client to maintain their comfort, dignity and safety - use of supports, towels, rolls and pillows, as appropriate, to ensure effectiveness of the treatment

Consider degree of client exposure and use draping if necessary

Position the client and resources for accessibility, effectiveness and efficiency

Consideration to health and safety of client and therapist and protection against any environmental considerations, e.g. outdoor event, clinic or playing field

Apply taping and strapping techniques safely and effectively:

Apply appropriate techniques correctly and consistently to meet the context and presenting condition of the client

Ensure suitability of choice of tape, materials and technique applied

Monitor, observe and respond - Check for changes in skin colour, heat and comfort

- Check for capillary re-fill

- Monitor range of movement

- Respond to feedback from client (verbal and non verbal)

- Respond to any adverse reactions, unexpected sensations, pain or discomfort

- Check effectiveness of technique Bring the treatment to an end using an appropriate technique:

Supply cleansing materials

Check for potential allergic response/adverse reactions

Disposal of waste products

Give assistance to client where necessary

Gain client feedback, comparison to initial markers

Evaluate effectiveness of treatment: - Check circulation is present

- Check for pins and needles, numbness

- Check for creases and folds in the tapes

- Review available ROM (according to aims and objectives)

Provide homecare/aftercare, e.g. rest, support

Provide advice on duration of application and tape removal

Record treatments, as legally required, to include suggestions for future taping and strapping techniques

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Employability skills to be demonstrated throughout the practical assessment

Professionalism:

Adhere to industry codes of ethical practice, e.g. sports massage association

Wear appropriate clothing and footwear

Present a positive image Communication:

Adapt and tailor their communication approach for different clients - New and existing clients

- Special populations (young people, older adults, ante- or post-natal women, people with disabilities)

- Clients with other needs, e.g. speakers of other languages, deaf or partially hearing, blind or partially sighted

Communication considerations – show sensitivity to clients with different communication styles

- Verbal communication – speaking manner and tone of voice, being supportive, respectful, sensitive to client, open questioning to gather information related to treatment, active listening

Advantages of verbal communication – quick, instant response, client body language

Disadvantages of verbal communication – no written record, no time to consider your reaction, no paper trail

- Non-verbal communication – awareness of eye contact, body language, gestures, facial expressions

Advantages of body language – expression/reflection of feelings, unconscious; others can easily identify anger, happiness, confusion

Disadvantages of body language - cannot hide feelings (can be an advantage that these are visible, e.g. if a client flinches to show discomfort then this enables the therapist to respond), can be a barrier to communication

Customer service:

Principles of customer service – quality, keeping promises, managing customer expectations, customer satisfaction, speed of service, follow organisation procedures for meeting and greeting and inducting clients to equipment

Examples of good practice in customer service – meeting and exceeding customer needs and expectations, adding a personal touch, providing personal attention, knowing client names, using polite language, making extra efforts to demonstrate willingness to please the customer, treating the customer as an individual

Dealing quickly and effectively with a complaint. Acknowledge complaint immediately (HEAT – Hear, Empathise, Apologise, Take action), handle complaints (privately, positively, confidently, professionally, promptly, confidentially, empathetically, with trust and respect, to client’s satisfaction), follow agreed procedures to check complaint has been dealt with

The importance of customer service to a business - professional image, organisation and industry sector, customer retention, customer satisfaction, customer relationships and repeat business, including word of mouth recommendations and referrals

Commercial awareness:

Eco-friendly and cost-efficient use of resources, e.g. time, disposal of waste, use of products and consumables

- Use of non-toxic and ecologically friendly cleaning products

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- Recycling paper towel

- Shredded treatment cards and other documents

- Turning equipment and air conditioning off overnight

Opportunities to promote and sell additional products and services - Personal training sessions

- Lifestyle support

- Specialist courses or sessions, e.g. weight management, healthy eating, back care

- Group exercise

- Treatment products

Opportunities to promote other activities and services offered by the facility e.g. group exercise and studio classes, swimming, racquet sports, sports massage, physiotherapist, nutritionist, café, beauty therapy

Awareness of competitors - Different business types locally that may compete for a client’s disposable

income

Unique selling points of products and services. Combination of facilities and services offered that are not available elsewhere. Specialities and target market niches

Opportunities to differentiate self and services from competitors. Own experiences and achievements relevant to supporting others

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Skin cancer awareness

Please note this information will not be assessed for the achievement of this unit. Public awareness of skin cancer has never been higher, and yet skin cancer remains the

fastest growing cancer in the UK, especially amongst young people. The chances of a

positive outcome can be dramatically increased with early identification and diagnosis.

Professionals in hair, beauty, sports massage and health and wellbeing industries work

closely with clients and in many cases have sight of areas of skin which may not be easily

visible to the client. An informed awareness of the signs, symptoms and changes of

appearance to be aware of when checking for early signs of cancer is a crucial tool for the

conscientious practitioner in order to provide the most thorough service and in some cases,

possibly lifesaving information signposting.

Signs to look for when checking moles include utilising the ABCDE guide:

A - Asymmetry – the two halves of the area/mole may differ in their shape and not match.

B - Border – the edges of the mole area may be irregular or blurred and sometimes show

notches or look ‘ragged’.

C - Colour – this may be uneven and patchy. Different shades of black, brown and pink may

be seen.

D - Diameter – most but not all melanomas are at least 6mm in diameter. If any mole gets

bigger or changes see your doctor.

E - Elevation/evolving – elevation means the mole is raised above the surface and has an

uneven surface. Looks different from the rest or changing in size, shape or colour. Anyone

can get a suspicious mole or patch of skin checked out for free by the NHS by visiting their

doctor, who may then refer to a dermatologist (an expert in diagnosing skin cancer).

If you require any additional NHS information please refer to https://www.nhs.uk/be-clear-on-

cancer/symptoms/skin-cancer

If your learners are interested in learning more about skin cancer awareness alongside this

qualification, VTCT runs the following qualification: VTCT Level 2 Award in Skin Cancer

Awareness for Non-Healthcare Professionals.

This qualification has been specifically designed for those working in the sports massage,

health and wellbeing, beauty, hairdressing and barbering sectors. It will enable learners to

identify any changes to their client’s skin and to highlight those changes to the client using

appropriate language and communication skills. It will enable the learner to raise awareness

of skin cancer and signpost their clients to public information about skin cancer.

This qualification will enable hair, beauty and wellbeing professionals to gain the appropriate

knowledge and communication skills required to provide non-diagnostic, professional advice

and information to clients in a discrete, empathetic and confidential manner.

For more information please refer to the Record of Assessment book:

https://qualifications.vtct.org.uk/finder/qualfinder/1Record%20of%20Assessment%20Book/A

G20529.pdf

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Assessment criteria

In order to pass this unit, learners must achieve all pass criteria. The pass criteria relate to the proficient demonstration of skills and knowledge.

Learning outcome

The learner must:

Assessment Criteria

The learner can:

LO1 Know the indications, contra-indications and precautions for taping and strapping

P1 Explain the indications for taping and strapping

P2 Explain the contra-indications and precautions for taping and strapping

LO2 Know the physical, physiological and psychological effects of taping and strapping

P3 Describe the physical and physiological effects of taping and strapping techniques

P4 Describe the psychological effects of taping and strapping

LO3 Know the risks and adverse effects associated with taping and strapping

P5 Describe possible risks and adverse reactions to taping and strapping techniques

P6 Describe precautions to reduce risk when applying taping and strapping techniques

LO4 Be able to prepare for taping and strapping techniques

P7 Devise a treatment plan for taping and strapping techniques

P8 Prepare self and treatment area for taping and strapping techniques

P9 Select and prepare equipment and resources for application of taping and strapping techniques

P10 Prepare the client for application of taping and strapping techniques

LO5 Be able to apply taping and strapping techniques

P11 Position the client to ensure their comfort, dignity and safety throughout the treatment

P12 Apply taping and strapping techniques safely and effectively

P13 Bring the treatment to an end using appropriate techniques

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Assessment guidance

Assessors must use the amplified assessment guidance in this section to judge whether assessment criteria have been achieved in the practical assessment.

P7 Devise a treatment plan for taping and strapping techniques

Learners must demonstrate that they have assessed the client using appropriate verbal questioning, visual checks and reference to client records. Learners must gather information to confirm indications for taping and strapping techniques and check for contra-indications, precautions and risks to taping and strapping techniques. Learners must select appropriate method of taping and strapping for the problem presented.

P8 Prepare self and treatment area for taping and strapping techniques

Learners must demonstrate that they have prepared themselves in line with professional standards to include personal hygiene, dress, appearance and attitude

Learners must ensure that all treatment area and equipment is hygienic and that they have adhered to health and safety requirements to control risk of cross-infection.

P9 Select and prepare equipment and resources for application of taping and strapping techniques

Learners must select and prepare the appropriate resources needed for the chosen taping or strapping technique. This will include selection of all accessory resources needed for the treatment to ensure cleanliness, comfort and dignity for the client.

Learners will also prepare all resources needed for protection, e.g. under wrap, pads and fabric to act as a barrier.

Learners must carry out safety checks on equipment and check all equipment is working efficiently with no damage. The plinth should be stable and at correct height and all equipment and resources should be positioned to allow the therapist to work safely and efficiently with minimal disruption to the client.

P10 Prepare the client for application of taping and strapping techniques

Learners must fully explain all stages of the treatment to the client, which would include the purpose of the treatment, the features and benefits, the sensations the client may experience, any adverse effects and their likely duration. Learners must gain client informed consent before carrying out any treatment. The informed consent record should be signed by client and therapist and maintained as a record.

Learners must demonstrate that they have prepared the client for the treatment by instructing them to remove jewellery (in treatment area); cleansing and preparing the body areas to be treated and conducting appropriate preparatory tests, e.g. range of motion (ROM) and/or palpation.

Learners must follow guidelines for the presence of a chaperone where necessary.

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P11 Position the client to ensure their comfort, dignity and safety throughout the treatment

Learners must demonstrate that they have positioned the client to maintain comfort, dignity and safety. This will include the use of supports and drapes, e.g. towels, props and pillows.

Learners must demonstrate consideration for the client by exposing only the necessary amount of body area to be treated; this ensures effectiveness of treatment whilst at the same time maintains and respects client modesty.

Learners must demonstrate that they have positioned the client so that resources needed for the treatment are accessible and minimise disruption to the client during the treatment. Learners must ensure health and safety of both the client and themselves.

P12 Apply taping and strapping techniques safely and effectively

Learners must follow recommended guidelines for application of taping and strapping techniques. Learners must apply techniques correctly and consistently to meet the context and accommodate the needs of the client. This will include the appropriate choice of materials and technique. Learners must adhere to safety considerations and precautions, where appropriate.

Learners must also be able to respond and adapt the treatment to accommodate the client’s needs. This includes being observant throughout the treatment and aware of any adverse reactions. It also includes encouraging the client to communicate and provide feedback, e.g. any unexpected sensations pain or discomfort. Learners must also be aware of the client’s non- verbal communication, e.g. tensing, flinching or facial expressions and should take appropriate action to respond to client feedback.

P13 Bring the treatment to an end using appropriate techniques

Learners must demonstrate that they can end the treatment effectively. Learners must check the treatment area for any adverse reactions of potential allergic response and ensure they have supplied appropriate cleansing materials to the client, giving assistance where necessary.

Learners must gain client feedback to assess the effectiveness of treatment by comparison with initial markers. Learners must provide advice on duration of application and tape removal and must also give appropriate homecare advice to the client to maintain the benefits of the treatment and to meet the client’s needs and goals.

Learners must dispose of all waste, clean all equipment and tidy the treatment area so that everything is left in an appropriate condition for future use (safe and hygienic).

Learners must ensure that all treatment records are updated and maintained to meet legal requirements and professional standards.

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Resources

The special resources required for this unit are access to a real or realistic working environment that supports the application of taping and strapping techniques. Learners will benefit from access to a wide range of taping and strapping materials and access to a variety of taping and strapping references. Recommended text books:

Constantinou, M & Brown, M (2007) Therapeutic Taping for Musculoskeletal Conditions. Australia. Churchill Livingstone.

Macdonald, R (2010) Pocketbook of Taping Techniques. UK. Australia. Churchill Livingston

NB: This list is not exhaustive. There are many other valuable text books.

Websites:

The SMA Code of Ethics and Conduct – www.thesma.org

Institute of Sport and Remedial Massage – www.theisrm.com/terms.php

Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC) – www.cnhc.org.uk

Federation of Holistic Therapists (FHT) – www.fht.org.uk

The council for soft tissue therapies – www.gcmt.org.uk

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) – www.nice.org.uk

The American College of Sport Medicine (ACSM) – www.acsm.org

The Department of health – www.gov.uk/government/organisations/department-of-health

The British Association of Sport and Exercise Science – www.bases.org.uk

Delivery guidance

Teachers are encouraged to use innovative, practical and engaging delivery methods to enhance the learning experience. Learners may benefit from:

Meaningful employer engagement so they relate what is being learned to the real world of work and understand commercial competence and the use of products, tools and equipment in relation to injury prevention and management

Work experience within a injury/sports massage clinic so they can practise to hone their skills in a real environment

Using interactive information and technology systems and hardware so they can learn about concepts and theories; research current trends, research product knowledge and produce visual aids relevant to the application of taping and strapping

The use of flash cards, diagrams to complete, quizzes and design of posters to reinforce learning of the effects and adverse reactions to taping and strapping

Practical workshops where they can apply taping and strapping, using peers as clients and receive feedback from the teacher

Opportunities to observe and practise a range of taping and strapping techniques

Presentations from guest speakers, e.g. physiotherapists, to guide on the benefits and uses of taping and strapping

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Links with other units

This unit is closely linked with the following units:

USP92M Anatomy and physiology for sports massage

Learners will be required to apply their knowledge of anatomy and physiology when studying taping and strapping. Knowledge of anatomy and physiology underpins the application of taping and strapping. The anatomy and physiology unit should be delivered before the delivery of the applying taping and strapping unit.

USP96M Understand the principles of soft tissue dysfunction

Learners will be required to draw upon their knowledge of the principles of soft tissue when studying taping and strapping. The principles of soft tissue dysfunction unit will provide the fundamental knowledge and understanding of injury and dysfunctional tissue, which underpins the use of taping and strapping to prevent and manage injury. The principles of soft tissue dysfunction unit can be delivered before or integrated with delivery of the applying taping and strapping unit.

USP94M Assessment for sports massage

Learners will be required to apply their knowledge of assessment for sports massage when studying taping and strapping techniques. Client consultation will help the therapist to identify which technique would benefit the client. The assessment for sports massage unit should be delivered before the delivery of the applying taping and strapping unit.

USP95M Sports massage treatment

Learners will be required to apply their knowledge of sports massage treatments when studying taping and strapping. This will ensure all treatments are effective to manage the healing process. The content of the sports massage treatments unit can be delivered before or integrated with the delivery of the applying taping and strapping unit.

USP100X Applying hot and cold techniques in sport and active leisure

Learners will be required to apply their knowledge of hot and cold techniques when studying taping and strapping. The taping and strapping unit directly complements the application of hot and cold techniques unit, as both are used to prevent and manage injury. The content of the hot and cold techniques unit can be delivered before or integrated with the delivery of the applying taping and strapping unit. Both are optional units.

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Version Details of amendments Date

v8 Skin cancer information page added

13/06/17