by What is Kinesiology Tape?
Kinesiology taping, also known as kinesio taping or KT taping, is a soft cloth taping technique that is applied to the skin and hair over muscles and joints. This taping technique was developed in the 1970s by a Japanese chiropractor named Dr. Kenzo Kase. Elastic therapeutic tape is intended to mimic the qualities of human skin by being able to stretch up to 140% of its original length.
How Does Kinesiology Tape Work?
Unlike rigid athletic taping Kinesiology Tape is designed to move with the skin and allow full range of motion when muscles are exercised. It works by lifting the skin slightly to create space between the skin and muscle. This reduces tension on the muscle and allows it to glide more freely. It also provides micro-stimulation to the skin and muscular system which enhances blood and lymphatic circulation in the area. All of this helps reduce pain and enable muscles to perform at their best capacity.
The various proposed benefits of kinesiology taping include:
– Pain relief – By lifting the skin and reducing tension, taping can take pressure off sensitive or injured areas to relieve pain.
– Muscle/joint support – The tape can provide support to muscles or joints while still allowing full range of motion. This reduces stress on areas prone to injury or strain.
– Increased circulation – The tape’s micro-stimulation effect is thought to increase blood flow and flow of lymph which speeds healing.
– Muscle activation – When applied correctly, tape may facilitate proper firing patterns and engagement of muscles for improved function and support.
Common Uses and Applications
Some common applications of kinesiology taping include:
– Shoulder issues – For rotator cuff strains, impingement, or instability. Taping helps support the shoulder joint.
– Back/spine problems – For lower back pain, herniated discs, or muscle strains. Taping takes tension off the back muscles.
– Knee issues – For patellar tendonitis, IT band syndrome, knee pain, or post-surgery support. Tape supports the knee joint.
– Ankle sprains – Taping provides compression to reduce swelling after ankle sprains.
– Wrist/elbow injuries – For tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, or wrist sprains/strains, tape reduces strain in the affected area.
– Muscle fatigue/soreness – General muscle taping over fatigued areas may reduce muscle tension and speed recovery.
How to Apply Elastic therapeutic tape Properly
Proper application is important for Elastic therapeutic tape to be effective. Here are some tips:
– Clean and dry the skin where the tape will be applied. Hair does not need to be shaved or removed.
– Stretch the tape to a moderate tension (about 15-30% stretch) as you apply it to the skin in the direction of muscle/joint function.
– Apply tape in parallel lines, overlapping by 1/2 for complete coverage if needed.
– Tape should not restrict motion but instead move with the skin upon exercise/use of the body part.
– Keep tape on for 3-5 days before removing and reapplying a new strip if still needed. Gently remove tape against the direction of hair growth.
– Consult a trainer, therapist or doctor for specific taping techniques for certain injuries as improper application may impede results.
Research on Kinesiology Taping Effectiveness
While many anecdotal reports support kinesiology taping, scientific studies have provided mixed results about its true effectiveness:
– Reviews of studies found taping reduced pain more than sham taping or no taping in some cases, but results were inconclusive for performance outcomes.
– Research shows taping can reduce overactivity of select muscles, which may facilitate better activation of other muscles involved in movement.
– Studies indicate taping can improve blood circulation, lymphatic drainage, and range of motion in some individuals.
– Evidence suggests taping provides support for injuries like ankle sprains, though results are lacking for knee osteoarthritis or other conditions.
– Placebo effect is possible since neither subject nor researcher can be blinded in taping studies. Not all studies accounted for this.
so while kinesiology taping may benefit some people for certain applications, more high-quality research is still needed. Proper application technique also plays a key role in potential outcomes. Overall, it appears to be a generally safe adjunct to rehabilitation or preventative taping practices.
*Note:
1.Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2.We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
About Author - Ravina Pandya
Ravina Pandya,a content writer, has a strong foothold in the market research industry. She specializes in writing well-researched articles from different industries, including food and beverages, information and technology, healthcare, chemicals and materials, etc. With an MBA in E-commerce, she has expertise in SEO-optimized content that resonates with industry professionals. LinkedIn Profile
