KINESIO TAPING procedure is the use of special elastic strips which without medication correct muscle function (facilitate movement) and reduce muscle pain with immobilization of muscle fascia (the membrane).

Kinesiology taping (KT) is a therapeutic tool and has become increasingly popular within the sporting arena. Taping has been used for a long time for the prevention and treatment of sporting injuries. KT is not only used for sporting injuries but for a variety of other conditions. It was developed by JapanaeseDr. KenzoKase in the 1970's with the intention to alleviate pain and improve the healing in soft tissues.

There are many proposed benefits to KT, including: proprioceptive facilitation; reduced muscle fatigue; muscle facilitation; reduced delayed-onset muscle soreness; pain inhibition; enhanced healing, such as reducing oedema, and improvement of lymphatic drainage and blood flow.

Kinesio Taping

Kinesio taping method allows full range of motion. It does not negatively affect circulation, since there is no wrapping, and therefore no impediment of blood flow. Kinesio taping is a “light” modality. In rehabilitative applications it works continuously, so each treatment can continue for 2 to 3 days. It is based on 3 important concepts: Space, movement and cooling.

It is used for: - Balancing the muscles and bringing them up to a functional level. (Muscle taping)

- Mechanical, fascia, space, ligament/tendon, functional and circulatory/lymphatic corrections. (Correctional taping)

A key focus of KTM training and practice is the process of assessment. Assessing the patient’s condition, looking at both the symptoms and the likely cause of each individual patient’s condition, is the only way to successful treatment.

Theory

The type of application theoretically determines the physiological outcome: for example, KT is applied unstretched over manually stretched skin above the injured muscle. This type of application will cause the skin to form convolutions which lift the skin. Theories suggest that these convolutions encourage regeneration of injured tissue by increasing interstitial space and alleviating interstitial pressures which occur from swelling post injury. This decrease in pressure also decompresses subcutaneous nociceptors, leading to decreased pain[. It is also theorised that lifting the skin detaches filaments which attach the skin to endothelial cells of the lymphatic and capillary beds.

This is proposed to to create channels which allows for lymph to drain, thus reducing swelling and allowing increased blood flow to the area. The evidence for these theories is still in its infancy and requires extensive research.

Basics of Application

  • Ensure to thoroughly assess the patient in order to identify the most appropriate application
  • Do NOT apply tape to any area of skin that is damaged by: scrapes; cuts; burns; sunburn or any type of skin rash/irritation
  • Skin should be free of oils and lotion prior to application
  • If body hair is limiting adhesion you may need to trim or shave the area
  • Do NOT apply with excess tension (as with zinc oxide application)
  • If patient has been exercising, ensure perspiration has completely stopped before application 
  • If you are using a roll of tape, measure and cut carefully
  • Round all the edges of the tape to prevent premature peeling
  • Avoid touching the adhesive side of the tape after removing the backing as this may decrease the adhesive strength on the skin
  • Once the tape is applied, activate the heat sensitive glue by rubbing up and down the surface of the tape 
  • Wait at least 1 hour after application before engaging in activity that causes sweating
  • Do not swim or shower for at least 1 hour after application
  • To dry the tape after exercising, swimming or a shower, pat gently with a towel

Contra-indications and Precautions

  • Malignancy
  • Infection, cellulitis
  • Open wound