How to tape Carpal Hyperextension in Dogs

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Taping for Carpal Hyperextension in Dogs

Carpal hyperextension is a dropping or over-flattening of the wrist (carpus) joint. It can result from a traumatic injury to the flexor structures of the leg, or develop as a compensatory posture when a dog shifts extra weight onto the front legs to relieve pain in the hind limbs.

Kinesiology tape applied to support carpal hyperextension in a dog

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Example of carpal hyperextension in a dog's forelimb, untaped

Example of carpal hyperextension in the right forelimb, caused by a traumatic lesion in the flexor structures.

Diagram showing tape direction and force direction for carpal support

Two “I” strips run from proximal to distal on the caudolateral and caudomedial side of the limb, creating an upward line of force that helps resist hyperextension.

Step-by-step application

  1. Cut two “I” strips, long enough to run from just below the elbow to the paw.
  2. Apply both strips from proximal to distal on the caudolateral and caudomedial sides of the limb, using medium stretch through the middle section. Leave the anchors at each end without tension.

    Two I-strips applied along the limb for carpal support
  3. Create a secure distal anchor at the paw. Cut the sides of the tape to narrow it slightly so that it fits comfortably between the pads.

    Narrowing the tape to create a distal anchor around the paw, step 1
  4. Weave the narrowed ends between the toes to anchor the tape securely around the paw without restricting the digits.

    Weaving the tape between the toes to anchor it, step 2
  5. Press the anchor in place and rub the full application to activate the adhesive.

    Completed distal anchor around the paw, step 3

Important precautions

  • If the hyperextension is a compensatory posture caused by hind-limb pain, taping the front leg alone will not resolve the underlying cause – have the hind limbs assessed too.
  • Check the skin is clean, dry and free of irritation before applying tape.
  • Watch that the paw anchor does not restrict circulation or movement of the toes.

More information:

Please note that applications provided on our website are not clinically proven. All mentioned applications are based on extensive evaluation and case studies with licensed veterinarians and/or canine physiotherapists. Always have the underlying cause of lameness diagnosed by a veterinarian before applying tape.

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