Steroban-U underwrap is a thin foam bandage applied to the skin before adhesive strapping tape, creating a protective barrier that prevents adhesive irritation and painful hair pulling during tape removal. The self-adhering foam sticks to itself without adhesive, leaving zero residue on the skin. Essential for athletes and workers with sensitive skin or heavy body hair who require regular strapping.
Compliance Summary: Underwrap provides a skin-protective interface for adhesive strapping applications. Used in sports therapy and physiotherapy as standard pre-tape preparation before EAB and zinc oxide tape application.
Is underwrap necessary before applying EAB?
Underwrap is recommended but not essential. Direct EAB application provides stronger adhesion but can irritate sensitive skin and cause discomfort during removal on hairy areas. Underwrap creates a protective layer that makes removal comfortable while still allowing the strapping tape to provide effective joint support.
Does underwrap reduce the effectiveness of strapping?
Underwrap slightly reduces the direct adhesion between tape and skin, but the strapping tape adheres firmly to the underwrap surface. For most support applications, this provides adequate fixation. For maximum adhesion in competitive sport, some therapists apply underwrap to sensitive areas and tape directly to skin in key anchor zones.