McConnell Taping

What is the McConnell Taping Technique?

A Complete Guide to Expert Taping for Knee Pain and Joint Support

McConnell taping is a clinically proven taping method developed by world-renowned physiotherapist Jenny McConnell. It’s most commonly used to manage knee pain, particularly patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS), and is trusted by physiotherapists, elite athletes, and everyday patients around the world.

In this guide, you'll learn what McConnell taping is, how it works, when to use it, and how to apply it using premium-grade tape designed specifically for this technique.

What Is McConnell Taping?

McConnell taping is a therapeutic taping technique that involves applying rigid sports tape to realign the patella (kneecap) and reduce stress on the surrounding tissues. The technique was created in the 1980s by Jenny McConnell, an Australian physiotherapist who now has over 40 years of experience in musculoskeletal treatment.

Unlike stretchy kinesiology tape, McConnell taping uses a firm, non-elastic tape (like our Rigid Tape) to provide mechanical support and improve joint alignment.

What Conditions Does McConnell Taping Help?

McConnell taping is most often used to treat:

  • Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS)
  • Knee osteoarthritis
  • Post-surgical knee instability
  • Chondromalacia patellae
  • Runner’s knee
  • Other biomechanical misalignments of the knee

While the technique is best known for knees, it can also be adapted for shoulders, backs, and ankles.

How to Apply McConnell Taping

1. Prep the Skin

Use a hypoallergenic under tape (like our Under Tape) to protect the skin and allow for easy removal.

2. Correct Patella Position

Apply medial glide (pulling the patella inward) with Rigid Tape, using appropriate tension to realign the joint.

3. Secure with Firm Adhesion

Use a high-glue zinc oxide rigid tape to hold the patella in place.

4. Protect with Tape Shield (Optional)

Apply Tape Shield, a waterproof barrier film, to keep your tape in place for up to 7 days.

Learn from the Expert: Jenny McConnell

Jenny McConnell has received multiple awards for her work in physiotherapy and has trained thousands of clinicians in her taping method. At McConnell Therapeutics, she continues to shape every product and tutorial we offer.

Every box of tape includes a QR code linking to self-taping video guides designed by Jenny herself.

Watch Jenny explain how to apply the McConnell Technique here

Watch the McConnell Therapeutics self taping series here 

What Tape Should You Use for McConnell Taping?

At McConnell Therapeutics, we’ve developed a tape system that replicates Jenny’s original method — with modern improvements:

Get Started With McConnell Taping

Thousands of physiotherapists and patients use McConnell Therapeutics to support joints, relieve pain and recover faster.

Whether you’re a clinic, athlete, or someone living with knee pain - we’re here to help.