How to tape hip joint pain in dogs

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Taping for Hip Joint Pain in Dogs: The Star Technique

Hip joint pain is common in dogs, particularly with osteoarthritis, hip dysplasia or muscular strain around the joint. The Star application is a simple kinesiology tape technique that can help ease discomfort by stimulating the skin directly over the painful joint.

The tape does not act as a painkiller itself, but the stimulation of skin receptors is thought to inhibit the transmission of pain signals at spinal cord level, an effect described by the Gate Control Theory. It is a low-threshold, non-invasive addition to an existing treatment plan for chronic joint pain.

VetkinTape Star technique applied over a dog's hip joint

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When to use this application

The Star technique is suited to localised joint pain where the underlying cause has already been diagnosed by a veterinarian. It should never be used as a first response to an undiagnosed lameness, since reduced pain sensation can encourage a dog to bear more weight on an unstable or injured joint.

  • Chronic coxofemoral pain (e.g. osteoarthritis, hip dysplasia)
  • Muscular strain or tension around the hip
  • Post-diagnosis support alongside standard veterinary treatment
  • Not suitable for: undiagnosed lameness, suspected fracture, open wounds, skin irritation, or oedema at the site (use the Lymphatic cut for oedema instead)

Step-by-step application

Measure and cut five to six strips of tape of equal length, sized to your dog, before you begin.

Step 1: Palpate the joint

Locating the painful point on the hip joint

Step 2: Measure and cut the tape

Measuring and cutting the tape for the star application

Step 3: Remove the backing paper

Removing the backing paper and holding the tape at the anchors

Step 4: Cross the strips into an X

Two strips of tape crossed into an X over the joint

Tear the backing paper in the middle of each strip and hold the tape at both ends: these become the anchors, which stay unstretched. Place the strips crosswise, centred on the painful point, using light to moderate stretch. Repeat with the remaining strips, each slightly offset, until a star shape forms. Finish by rubbing over the whole application to activate the adhesive.

Important precautions

  • Never use the Star technique over a swelling (oedema): the crossing strips draw fluid towards the centre rather than away from it. Use the Lymphatic cut for oedema instead.
  • Do not tape an undiagnosed lameness, as reduced pain perception can increase weight-bearing on an unstable joint.
  • Check the skin is clean, dry and free of irritation before applying tape.
  • If the oedema is caused by a cardiac or renal problem, avoid directing fluid towards central circulation.

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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