Kinesiology Taping
What is Kinesiology Taping?
Kinesiology tape has an elastic quality that differs from athletic tape. It allows free movement without restriction while providing support and reducing muscle fatigue. It is helpful in reducing pain and oedema through the stretching of muscle and soft tissue as well as improved lymphatic flow.
Four Major Functions of Kinesio Tape:
• Relieves pain
• Corrects muscle function through reduction of muscle tension and strengthening of the weakened muscle
• Improves circulation and lymphatic flow while reducing inflammation
• Corrects misalignment of joints
Kinesio tape can be placed on any part of the body and therapists at Excel Rehab have had success in treating patients with the following diagnoses:
• Headache
• Neck Pain and Stiffness
• Shoulder Pain, Frozen Shoulder, or Dislocation
• Aching in the Upper Arm
• Medial or Lateral Epicondylitis
• Wrist Pain and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
• Backache or Spasms (including Scoliosis)
• Sciatica
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Foot Pain and Achilles Tendonitis
• Lymphedema of the Upper or Lower Extremities
• Muscle Strains
Kinesiology Tape and Taping? Questions and Answers
Q: Where did the word "Kinesio" come from?
A: The name comes from the science of Kinesiology, because the taping method and tape allows the body and muscles to move while it assists in rehabilitation.
Q: What does Kinesiology Taping and tape do?
A:The kinesiology taping method is applied over muscles to reduce pain & inflammation, relax overused tired muscles, and to support muscles in movement on a 24hr/day basis. It is not a restrictive type of taping, and allows for full range of motion. In contrast, traditional sports' taping is wrapped around a joint strictly for stabilization and support during a sporting event. Kinesiology tape is used for a wide range of problems. Examples include: carpal tunnel syndrome, lower back strain/pain, subluxations, herniated disc, knee conditions, shoulder conditions, sports injuries, etc.
Q: Is it the tape or the technique that gives such great results?
A:Without a doubt, the technique is the most unique, however, the full benefits were not possible until Kinesiology tape was developed. The taping method requires a tape that is patient and skin friendly, possesses optimum elastic qualities, the same thickness as the skin, and is durable enough to stay on multiple days even through perspiration, sweat and showers.
Q: How is the tape applied?
A:Without getting too technical, the tape is applied over the affected area with the muscles in a stretched position. Then the tape is applied from one end of the muscle to the other with very little stretch of the tape. The tape is applied from the ORIGIN to INSERTION of the muscle for SUPPORT and from INSERTION to ORIGIN for REHAB.
Q: What are the concerns or difficulties with Kinesiology Taping (Trouble Shooting)?
A:
- Skin needs to be free of oil, sweat, or lotion prior to application
- After application rub down tape to activate heat sensitive glue
- Avoid extreme stretching of the tape during application to avoid skin irritation
- Apply approx. 1 hr prior to activity or shower to allow glue to adhere properly
- Skin irritation is extremely rare, but special care should be taken with hypersensitive skin patients.
