Taping & supports
Rigid where you want a joint to stop, elastic where you want it to move and still be held. The two get bought together and used together: rigid zinc oxide for the anchor, elastic adhesive over the top so it survives a session. Kinesiology tape is a different job again and is here because clinics ask for it in the same order.
Not sure which one you need?
Three plain questions and the Gauge Finder tells you the thickness, the length and how many. Nothing you answer is stored.
Rigid anchors, elastic survives the session
Rigid zinc oxide tape does not stretch, which is the point of it: it is what stops a joint going where you do not want it to. Elastic adhesive bandage over the top lets the limb move without the strapping peeling off.
They are bought together and used together. A rigid tape job with no elastic over it comes apart; an elastic job with no rigid anchor does not restrict anything.
Kinesiology tape is a different job
Cotton elastic with a wave pattern adhesive, cut to shape, worn for days. It does not restrict a joint, which is the opposite of what strapping is for, so it is not a substitute for it.
Compression is sized on measurement
Class 1 knee high stockings are sized on ankle and calf circumference, not on shoe size. A stocking that is too big does nothing and one that is too small does not get worn.
Questions about taping & supports
If yours is not here, the contact form routes to the person who can answer it.