LCL Taping
Lateral knee support. View our comprehensive video tutorial or follow the step-by-step guide provided below.
To demonstrate a taping technique designed to support the lateral collateral ligament (LCL) following a knee injury, reducing varus forces and promoting stability during rehabilitation or sport.
- 01 GoLevita 38mm Rigid Strapping Tape
- 02 GoLevita Elastic Adhesive Bandage (EAB) 75mm
- 03 Optional: hypoallergenic underlay such as UnderFix
- 04 Scissors or tape cutter
Step-by-step
Positioning the Patient
Position the knee in approximately 30 degrees of flexion. This can be achieved by having the patient rest their heel on a tape roll or similar support.
Apply Anchor Strips
Apply two anchor strips:
One a few centimetres above the patella (do not fully encircle the thigh).
One a few centimetres below the knee on the calf (also half wrap only).
Optional: apply hypoallergenic underlay such as Hyperfix under anchor areas for skin protection.
Apply LCL Support Strips
Apply multiple rigid tape strips over the LCL region (lateral knee):
Begin with one strip directly across the lateral joint line.
Add cross-over strips to reinforce, depending on the required support.
No tension is necessary in the strips; layering provides structural integrity.
Reinforce with Elastic Tape
Use GoLevita’s 75mm EAB to reinforce the rigid tape:
Wrap the elastic tape around the knee, following the path of the rigid tape.
Overlap slightly and ensure consistent support around the lateral aspect.
Repeat layering if additional support is needed.
Lock Off the Tape Job
Secure the end of the elastic bandage with a final layer of rigid tape to prevent unraveling and ensure the tape job holds throughout activity.
- 01 LCL injuries often result from varus forces (e.g., tackles from the inside of the knee).
- 02 This taping technique aims to restrict lateral joint line gapping and support lateral knee structures.
- 03 Monitor for skin reaction and vascular integrity. Tape should not cause numbness, tingling, or cold extremities.
- 04 Ideal as a return-to-play or functional stability measure, not a replacement for rehab.
Educational content only. Not a substitute for individual advice from a qualified health professional. Always consult a healthcare professional before applying taping techniques.