What is Kinesiotape?
Kinesiotape’s actual name is kinesiology tape. It is an elastic therapeutic tape used to help support joints and muscles. It can be found on both professional and recreational athletes and gained a lot of popularity during the 2008 Olympics.
The Kinesio Taping Method is applied over the injured muscles to reduce pain and inflammation. The taping mechanism provides additional support while still allowing a full range of movement.
Kinesiotape is different from traditional athletic tape because of the elastic properties as well as the wave pattern on the back. The Kinesio Tape is made of premium quality high-grade cotton, allowing the skin to breathe. The heat-activated adhesive is a hypoallergenic latex-free formula, with air circulation waves that channel out sweat and water. In addition kinesiotape also slightly lifts the epidermis, allowing edema to flow out of the injured area. Moreover, the tape possesses optimum elastic qualities and flexibility like human skin.
Relief Chiropractic offers Kinesio taping as a therapeutic and systematic technique addition to support the patient’s rehabilitation program allowing for maximum potential benefit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Does Kinesio Mean?
The name is derived from the scientific concept of Kinesiology which is the study of human movement. Kinesio-taping method assists in rehabilitation by giving stability, like a brace, to an injured area while still allowing movement which a brace cannot do.
How can I maximize the benefit from Kinesio Taping?
Prior to taping, ensure that the skin is free of oil, sweat, or any bodycare products. When initially applying the tape, rub the tape to activate heat-sensitive adhesive within the tape. After a shower let the tape dry naturally. Taping can last from 2 to 7 days depending on activity and general oiliness of the skin. However, when it begins to peel off a new application should be applied.
Can Kinesio Taping Cause Skin Irritation?
Although skin irritation is extremely rare with the Kinesio taping techniques, extra precautions are advised for patients with hypersensitive skin. Keeping the area free of dirt and oil usually prevents any irritation. We always wash the area with alcohol before applying tape. Shaving the area first can also help but is not absolutely necessary.
Is The Magic The Tape Or The Technique?
It is both. Kinesiotape is unique in that it has both viscoelastic properties as well as its ability to stabilize. However if not taped correctly, it will not work. Further, each application method is unique to the symptoms that are presented.