We previously did a brief writeup introducing kinesiology (or kinesio) taping. However, in this post we shall go into a little more detail explaining further on how the use of kinesio taping can be used as an effective mode of treatment.
Just to give some background, kinesio taping was developed by a licensed chiropractor from the United States (US) called Dr. Kenzo Kase. Dr. Kase developed the kinesio taping method in the 1970s to fill a void in the treatment options that were available during that time. Popularity of the use of kinesio taping grew after the extensive media coverage during the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympics. Now, you can find athletes in across most sporting codes using kinesio taping during their events.
So, how does kinesio taping effectively benefit a Practice Member here at Spinefit Chiropractic?
- Decompresses an area of swelling and inflammation
By using the kinesio tape, it has been noted to have a microscopic lifting effect underneath the skin and between the skins’ many layers. This aides the by-products created by the inflammation to be removed more quickly. When applied correctly, bruising can be reduced in a shorter amount of time it would normally take.
- Delays fatigue
Research has shown the when the kinesio tape is applied on the skin, it could attenuate muscle fatigue. When used during rehabilitation, the kinesio tape can not only help the parts of your body that are currently hurting, but also for the surrounding muscle areas that may not be working as well.
- Normalises muscle tone
When someone is injured, fatigued or sick, their normal muscle action that takes place may not work as well and can happen all over the body. For example, as a result of someone with a sprained ankle, they may have an altered activity to their hip muscles. With the proper application of the kinesio tape, it could help bring dormant muscles back to “life” and help to calm down the overactive muscles. This helps the body to coordinate movement to a state as if it weren’t hurt allowing for the problem areas to heal properly.
- Distributes physical stress
Unlike the use of other restrictive taping, kinesio taping allows for full movement to the problem area. Due to the elasticity of the tape and its quick recoil, the taping of the problem area can help to distribute forces to other nearby areas through the fascia, ligaments and even bones. Compared to the more commonly used rigid taping (e.g. white oxide tape), kinesio tapes do not restrict/limit the range of motion, isn’t uncomfortable, and because of it’s elastic properties, doesn’t lose its tension over time (holds up to 3 to 4 days).
- Improves kinaesthetic awareness
Someone with poor posture can be corrected with the proper application of kinesio tape. Over time, with consistent application, you will be used to the right posture and together with active rehabilitation, the muscles will be strong enough to hold the correct posture. This could also be applied for active individuals who need to improve their techniques in their respective sporting codes.
Here are some conditions that could benefit from kinesio taping:
- Patellofemoral joint pain
- Low back pain
- Plantar fasciitis
- Tennis elbow
- Ankle sprains
- Shoulder impingement syndrome
- Postural corrections and misalignments
With the use of kinesio tape for some of the conditions mentioned above, our aim is to eventually enhance the quality of life for our Practice Members. Even if you are not a professional athlete or actively playing sports, practitioners like us here at Spinefit Chiropractic are trained to use kinesio taping to complement our specialised treatments for musculoskeletal conditions.
If you are currently experiencing pain as a result of the conditions mentioned above, or would like more information on how kinesio taping can complement your existing treatments with us, make an appointment with our team today!