Understanding Kinesio Taping: Benefits and Applications in Therapy

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 how kinesio taping can be used as an effective mode of treatment, especially in the realms of sports physical therapy and manual therapy.

 

Background on Kinesio Taping

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. The method employs kinesio tex tape, a type of therapeutic tape designed to work in harmony with the body’s natural movements and support recovery. The popularity of the use of kinesio taping grew after the extensive media coverage during the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympics. Now, you can find athletes across most sporting codes using kinesio taping during their events.

 

kinesio taping

 

Benefits of Kinesio Taping

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 skin’s many layers. This action supports the circulatory system in clearing the by-products of inflammation, thereby relieving pain and reducing swelling. For soft tissue injuries like bruises, kinesiology tape helps decrease pain and accelerates recovery.

Delays fatigue

Research has shown that kinesio tex tape positively influences the sensory nervous system, which helps lessen pain and 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, the 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 restores balance and coordination, allowing the body to heal efficiently with positive physiological effects

Distributes physical stress

Unlike traditional athletic tape, 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, aren’t uncomfortable, and because of their elastic properties, don’t lose their tension over time (hold 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 to active individuals who need to improve their techniques in their respective sporting codes.

 

kinesiology taping with kinesio tex gold

 

Conditions Treated with Kinesio Tape

Here are some conditions that could benefit from kinesio taping:

  1. Patellofemoral joint pain
  2. Low back pain
  3. Plantar fasciitis
  4. Tennis elbow
  5. Ankle sprains
  6. Shoulder impingement syndrome
  7. Postural corrections and misalignments

With the use of kinesio tape for some of the conditions mentioned above, we aim 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.

 

Kinesiology Taping Techniques To Enhance Your Recovery

Here are some general kinesiology taping techniques used by physical therapists and sports specialists:

  • Muscle Taping: This technique supports or relaxes specific muscles to reduce pain or strain. The tape is applied along the muscle’s length with varying tension to provide support during movement or alleviate strain.
  • Ligament/Joint Stability Taping: This technique supports ligaments and joints and is particularly useful for areas prone to sprains, such as the knee or ankle. The tape is applied to emphasize joint stability.
  • Lymphatic Taping: This technique promotes lymphatic fluid drainage, which can help reduce swelling and inflammation. The tape is applied with specific patterns and tensions to encourage fluid movement.
  • Fascial Taping: This technique focuses on the fascia, the connective tissue surrounding muscles. It can help relieve tension in tight areas and improve overall mobility.

These techniques, when combined with manual therapy, can amplify their effectiveness in relieving pain and accelerating recovery.

 

Book an Appointment Today to Learn More About Kinesio Taping

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!

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