What is Kinesio Tape and is it right for you?

What is Kinesio Tape?

Also called Kinesio Tex Tape, Kinesio Tape was created by Dr. Kenzo Kase in 1979 and is used to reduce muscle pain and inflammation while also relaxing overused muscles and supporting them throughout the 24-hour-day.

Kinesio Tape is an elastic, adhesive tape that is latex free, hypoallergenic and made to last several days at a time. It is ideal for a wide variety of individuals from elite athletes to geriatric patients.

Kinesio Tape is also:

• 100% made from a gentle cotton fiber strip
• 100% medical grade acrylic adhesive
• 100% latex-free
• Hypoallergenic
• Water-resistant
• Does not limit range of motion
• Multiple day wear time.
• Tension on tape has the ability to relax or stimulate muscles.

How Does Kinesio Tape Work?

Kinesio Tape alleviates discomfort and facilitates lymphatic drainage by microscopically lifting the skin. This lifting affect forms convolutions in the skin thus increasing interstitial space and allowing for a decrease in inflammation, reducing pressure while enabling a more effective flow of lymphatic fluid in and out of the target area.

Based upon years of clinical use, Kinesio Tape is specifically applied to the patient based upon their needs prior to evaluation. The findings of the clinical evaluation or assessment dictate the specifics of the Kinesio Tape application and other possible treatments or modalities.

Kinesio Tape can be applied in hundreds of ways and can re-educate the neuromuscular system, reduce inflammation, prevent injury and promote good circulation and healing, and assist in returning the body to homeostasis.

What is kinesiology tape used for?

Treating Injuries

Kinesiology taping is often used among physical therapist in conjunction with manual therapy for an overall treatment plan for those who’ve been injured.

Supporting Weak Areas

Kinesio Tape is also used to provide extra support for weak muscles or joints that may need it. Kinesio tape promotes more natural movements unlike white medical or athletic tape. In fact, some studies have shown kinesiology taping can enhance movement and endurance while also treating fatigues muscles in athletes.

Re-training Muscles

Kinesio Tape has the ability to re-educate weak muscles or muscles that have adopted unhealthy function.

One study has proven Kinesio Tape can correct head and neck posture while another 2017 study has shown benefits and walking improvements among stroke patients.

Performance Enhancer

Many athletes will use Kinesio Tape to help achieve optimal performance as well as prevent injuries. Runners often us Kinesio Tape every time they run as a way to ‘wake up’ the muscles and remind them to keep working. 

When not to tape

According to Healthline, here are some circumstances in which kinesiology tape should not be used:

• Open wounds. Using tape over a wound could lead to infection or skin damage.
• Deep vein thrombosis. Increasing fluid flow could cause a blood clot to dislodge, which might be fatal.
• Active cancer. Increasing blood supply to a cancerous growth could be dangerous.
• Lymph node removal. Increasing fluid where a node is missing could cause swelling.
• Diabetes. If you have reduced sensation in some areas, you might not notice a reaction to the tape.
• Allergy. If your skin is sensitive to adhesives, you could trigger a strong reaction.
• Fragile skin. If your skin is prone to tearing, you should avoid placing tape on it.

Is Kinesio Tape Right for You?

If you’re experiencing muscle pain, inflammation, tired muscles or weak muscles, consider working with one of our Certified KinesioTaping Technicians to receive an evaluation and find out how Kinesio Tape can work for you!
Contact Lisa Groft (502) 896-3900 x115 or complete the form below to learn more.