Benefits of Kinesio Taping
Kinesio Taping came to notoriety shortly after the 2008 Olympics where numerous athletes were photographed wearing the colored tapes. The Kinesio Taping concept was developed by Dr. Kenzo Kase, DC, in 1973 in Japan and was introduced to the US in 1995.
This taping concept utilizes a non-latex, elastic, cotton fiber tape with no medicinal properties. It can be used for acute (new) to chronic injures, throughout all stages of rehabilitation, and to prevent re-injury. It is safe to use in any population, including children and the elderly, with only minimal contraindications. The tape does not limit motion; in fact it works with the body to help assist in normal range-of-motion. The tape can be worn for 3-5 days in order to enhance performance.
The technique can be used to create positive responses to skin, fascia, muscle, joints, ligaments, tendons, and circulatory/lymphatic systems. Through the application, with varying amounts of tension in the tape and direction of pull, it can microscopically lift the skin to create increased lymphatic drainage, decreased inflammation, and more space for receptors that lie under the skin/fascia. Creating more space can allow for excessive swelling to decrease or decreasing pressure on the receptor in the muscle that perceives pain.
Kinesio Tape differs from athletic taping in that it is not restrictive to the involved muscles and joints. Athletic tape will provide support to help prevent additional injury, but also inhibits free movement and “breathing” of the skin. Additionally athletic tape offers no ability to relieve pain in the affected area.
There is current research stating that the benefits of this therapeutic Kinesio Tex Tape can affect the skin, lymphatic and circulatory system, fascia, muscles, ligaments, tendons, and joints. It is used in conjunction with other physical therapy treatments and modalities including manual/myofascial techniques.
Kinesio Taping can also prolong any therapeutic benefits that are achieved during a manual treatment session. Several of our clinicians are Certified Kinesio Taping Practitioners (CKTP).