Coban is such a useful, great-value product. It’s a thin, stretchy wrap that sticks to itself, so you don’t need tape or clips. I use the 2.5 cm width for painful arthritic finger joints (Heberden’s and Bouchard’s nodes): it gives a joint gentle support and pressure, plus some cushioning from knocks and bangs.

What I use it for

• Painful arthritic finger joints (Heberden’s and Bouchard’s nodes): gentle pressure and support, and cushioning against bumps
• Small digital ganglion cysts: gentle pressure over the lump
• Buddy strapping: holding two fingers together
• The 5 cm width: wrist arthritis, swelling and ganglions

What I like

• Sticks to itself, so no adhesive tape needed
• You can remove and reapply a piece many times, so one roll lasts a long time
• Conforms to the contours of the finger
• Breathable, lightweight and moisture-resistant
• Neutral skin colour, so it’s discreet
• Good value, especially in a multi-roll pack

Things to know

• Apply it with gentle tension only. Wrap snugly, never tightly, and don’t stretch it hard. If the finger throbs, tingles, goes numb or changes colour, take it off straight away.
• Don’t leave it on overnight if it’s anything more than loosely applied.
• It’s a comfort measure. It can ease pain and protect a sore joint, but it won’t change the arthritis.
• If you have a latex allergy, check the packaging for the product you receive.
• This listing is the 2.5 cm (1 inch) width in a pack of 5 rolls. Choose the 5 cm width if you need it for the wrist.

Who it suits: people with painful arthritic finger joints or small ganglion cysts who want a simple, inexpensive and discreet way of supporting and cushioning the joint.

Compare with: the compression gloves, if several finger joints are sore.

Read my article on hand and finger arthritis or watch my video on how to apply Coban tape.