What is Kinesio Tape?
Kinesio Tape is an adhesive tape technique. Kinesio Tape gives support and stability to joints and muscles without affecting circulation and range of motion. This means that blood flow can still occur as well as movement of the limbs and torso, making it very valuable for athletes during play. In contrast, traditional tape is wrapped around a joint strictly for stabilization and support. This obstructs the flow of blood flow.
How does Kinesio Tape help?
The tape is applied over muscles to reduce pain and inflammation, relax overused tired muscles, and to support muscles in movement on a full day basis.
How does Kinesio Tape work?
Simply put, the skin sends messages to the brain. Thus, by placing tape on the skin, various messages are relayed back to the brain adjusting to the changes. Kinesio Taping is based on the body’s own natural healing process.
What is the difference between Kinesio Tape and other Tape techniques?
Today, there are many therapy choices to address problems involving patients and athletes. Many of the more popular choices are devices that give direct stabilization and support to the affected area. These devices do a good job of temporarily decreasing symptoms and pain, but the side effects may outweigh the advantages.
Where can Kinesio Tape be applied?
Kinesio Tape is used for anything from headaches to foot problems and everything in between. Examples include: muscular facilitation or inhibition in pediatric patients, carpal tunnel syndrome, lower back strain/pain (subluxations, herniated disc), knee conditions, shoulder conditions, hamstring, groin injury, rotator cuff injury, whiplash, tennis elbow, plantar fasciitis, patella tracking, pre and post surgical edema, ankle sprains, athletic preventative injury method, and as a support method.
Some devices reduce circulation causing muscles not to receive the much needed blood flow and thereby negatively affecting the clinical condition. Others restrict the natural range of motion, inhibiting overall performance and comfort. These major side effects are eliminated when using the Kinesio Taping Method.