The same techniques used to tie the leg can be applied to a folded arm, also known as the chicken wing tie. It is an added challenge as the skin on the arm is much softer and requires more delicate handling.

Chicken Wing Tie

The different techniques from the previous days can be adapted to tie the arm in a bent position. Keeping the tie simple and fast to untie is an important strategy to mitigate the risks.

In particular, many nerves in the arms are exposed. Tension and placement will be critical at the softest spots: the armpit, the elbow and the wrist. Some may experience nerve impingement symptoms with the position itself. It is important to constantly check the hand motricity to monitor the nerves. We will go deeper on the upper limb nerves on Day 50.

Most importantly, making this tie should be fun. Since it uses less rope than on the leg, the extra rope can be used to bind the arms in fun positions.

Practice Time!

Pick your favourite techniques and tie the arms in a bent position.

Self evaluation checklist:

  • Are there any painful sensations? Monitor the sensations and movement of the hand.
  • Is the arm fully bent, can the arm still move at the elbow?
  • Frictions are tight and compact with no undesired twists
  • Tension is even across the tie
  • Move the arm around, does the tie stay in place?
  • Pull the stem in different directions; how does it hold?
  • How is the blood circulation? Does the hand become numb after some time?

Exploration ideas:

  • Try different techniques to create the position.
  • Try different placement of wraps.
  • Use the remaining rope to place the arm in different poses.

Being Tied: Hello Ulnar Nerve – sansblague

“Chicken wings” can sometimes be strenuous on the ulnar nerve of the person being tied, not because of the rope placement itself, but just because of the physical compression in the elbow area. If you feel tingles in your little fingers and ring fingers, experiment together with finding alternatives that allow you to open “the wings” more and compress your elbows less.

Inspirations and Resources

Credit: Basic ties – M: Miss_Soffia R/P: Ebi McKnotty – Placing arms – M: NathanielFlumen R/P: Ebi McKnotty


Let’s continue with Assembling Ties

Or return to Frog Ties for more options.