Non-sticky alternatives to strapping tape?

[TerraMer]

I have recently developed an intolerance to sticky plasters, sports tape, surgery strips, etc. I am not sure if it the sticky bit or something in the plastic, fabric and paper strips I tried but I think it is the sticky stuff. They all seemed to react with a rash.

Often I use sports strapping tape for joints and am not sure of the best alternative without sticky stuff that provides the same support. And what can be used without creating pressure from an extra layer inside the boot. Tape was perfect for ankle support.

What do you suggest?

[icefest]

This is a common hypersensitivity. As there are several different compounds (zinc, latex etc), some people try several tapes untill they find ones that do work.

There is also a product that you can wrap around the skin before the tape (I think it is silicone based) that prevents contact but still supports.

Failing this, joint braces work.

[Strider]

Parafilm?

[bernieq]

.

What do you suggest?

Try "Fixomull stretch" on the skin and the strapping tape on top of that (from most Pharmacies/Chemists) - commonly used by Physios for just this purpose.

It’s a white non-woven tape that sticks well enough to dry skin but is (relatively) easily removed. Not cheap, at around $35 for a roll 5cm x 10m

[TerraMer]

Try "Fixomull stretch"

This was the first thing i tried after reacting to surgical wound strips then tried another 6 kinds/brands of tape and plasters and clear film with and without alco wipes This is why I think it must be in the sticky stuff.

Parafilm?

Is this sticky or waxy or dry and stretchy? Is this the silicon based stuff icefest mentioned? I'll give it a go.

The other product i need to try out is the self adhesive bandage that sticks to itself but not to the skin, usually comes in blue. I have a feeling it will roll and cinch which will create a blister problem if i use it for ankles. Anyone else tried it?

[oldpiscator]

There is also a non-sticky stretchy bandage used for strapping horses legs that might suit. Try a vet or horse supplies type shop.

[GPSGuided]

Crepe bandage might be the only solution in those who are hyper-allergenic. Not specific but little alternative by that point.

[TerraMer]

There is also a non-sticky stretchy bandage used for strapping horses legs that might suit. Try a vet or horse supplies type shop.

That might be the blue self adhesive stuff I'm yet to try. Sticks to itself but not to the animal, comes in a whole rainbow of colours and variety of widths? I discovered it while volunteering in a bird rescue center during an oil spill clean up in Portugal 11 years ago. We used it on their feet and legs to prevent them getting ulsers (like bed sores) from being grounded in their stabilisation and rehab boxes. It seems to be popular with vets. You can order it through some human 1st aid suppliers too. I bought a couple of rolls because it looks versatile but have never had a reason to use it since Pt.

[TerraMer]

Crepe bandage might be the only solution in those who are hyper-allergenic. Not specific but little alternative by that point.

Hopefully not, but you might be right. I'm sure there must be something, can't imagine there being a gap in the market.
Did you ever have a kid at school who was always hurting themselves, strained wrists and ankles, and the PE teacher or nurse would wrap it in a dodgy bandage and it was suddenly better. I wonder if someone can apply a placebo treatment to themselves. I could carry some magic embrocation with me

[oldpiscator]

There is also a non-sticky stretchy bandage used for strapping horses legs that might suit. Try a vet or horse supplies type shop.

That might be the blue self adhesive stuff I'm yet to try. Sticks to itself but not to the animal, comes in a whole rainbow of colours and variety of widths? I discovered it while volunteering in a bird rescue center during an oil spill clean up in Portugal 11 years ago. We used it on their feet and legs to prevent them getting ulsers (like bed sores) from being grounded in their stabilisation and rehab boxes. It seems to be popular with vets. You can order it through some human 1st aid suppliers too. I bought a couple of rolls because it looks versatile but have never had a reason to use it since Pt.

Yes this sounds like the same stuff. I was given a roll of grey about 60mm wide which I carry as a pressure bandage in case of snake bite. Haven't had to use it and hope I don't.

[matagi]

You can buy the self adhesive stuff in pharmacies.

[Willraja]

I used to get a really bad almost blistering reaction to strapping tapes even the base layer white hypoallergenic tape. Also as a relatively hairy bloke, got thinking the pulling on the hairs may be the true cause of the irritation. A trip to the beauty therapist with ten bucks and 5 minutes later.....two nicely bald and distinctly odd looking knees. Taped the next day, all good No more reaction to the tapes. Some people may have an actual chemical allergy others like myself may just be experiencing a physical irritation thats presenting as a allergic reaction.

Advantages
cheap to try
tape comes off super-easy

Cons
wearing shorts