Kinesio tape, when applied properly, provides a constant shear or pulling force to the skin and muscle.
It does not restrict movement but instead, allows full movement of the body while it is being worn. It is strategically placed to distribute the force of the body and promote proper posture and function. Used appropriately, it can assist in healing post-injury by redistributing the forces within the body away from the injury to reduce inflammation and stress, while encouraging lymphatic drainage and circulation to the healing area.
A Bit of Kinesio History
Dr. Kase developed and refined the Kinesio Taping Method in the late 1970’s, founding the original Kinesio Taping Method in 1980. In short, Kinesio taping is a “therapeutic tool utilized by rehabilitation specialists” to address pain, soft-tissue injuries, inflammation, and tissue or joint misalignment, to name a few diagnostic purposes.
Over the past 40+ years, Dr. Kase has developed training programs, technology, products and professional networking groups to drive knowledge of and capabilities with Kinesio tape. In fact, today, Kinesio tape is not limited to use on humans – equine and canine therapy also uses tape.
Is Kinesio Tape The Same As Athletic Tape?
When compared to athletic tape, Kinesio tape has greater elasticity and is able to stretch up to 180% of its original length before it is applied to the skin. Kinesio tape such as Kinesio Tex Tape was developed by Dr. Kase specifically to provide optimal stimulation without reduction in range of motion in order increase healing. Kinesio tape is specifically developed to be safe for use for children and infants to senior citizens and geriatric patients.
How Long Can You Wear Kinesio Tape?
Depending on the brand used, it can be worn from a few days to several weeks. It is usually air-permeable and water-resistant, unlike athletic tape which is restrictive. This is part of why it is able to be worn longer than athletic tape.
Why Use It?
Kinesiology taping can be therapeutically effective and quite useful following an injury and physical therapy. In the seminars we are taught that we aren’t taping muscles, but movement patterns.
Trained professionals using Kineso tape utilize this specialty tape in a variety ways to achieve results for patients. Your therapist will review your medical history, your specific concerns and complaints and evaluate your movement and capabilities before determining the best placement to achieve the desired results. Always work closely with your therapist to ensure placement of Kinesio tape is adapted as your body heals and improves.
According to Dr. Kase, strategic placement and use of Kinesio tape helps to:
- Alter the effect of muscular function on weakened muscles
- Eliminate excess tissue fluid to improve circulation of blood and lymphaptic fluids
- Decrease pain through neurological suppression by lifting tissues and taking pressure off the affected area
- Reposition subluxed joints to relieve abnormal muscular tension, assisting the function of fascia and muscles
- Increase one’s perception of the movement and placement of the body
Kinesio taping is used as part of a holistic approach to healing, eliminating pain and increasing circulation and mobility. If you are wondering if this modality can help you in your health journey, call us today. Using K-tape as part of your myofascial therapy session may bring additional benefit.