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What is Kinesio Tape?
What is Kinesio Tape?
Kinesio tape is a thin, elastic strip that is used to support muscles, reduce pain, and improve circulation.
Unlike traditional athletic tape, Kinesio tape is stretchy, so it allows your joints to go through their full range of motion.
Kinesio Tape Theory
Kinesio Tape Theory
When Kinesio tape is placed on the skin, it creates a small degree of stretch to the local tissues. This change in tension is enough of a mechanical stimulus to trigger the nervous system and change pain perception.
In addition, the tape is believed to lift tissues, causing a slight decompression of the skin and superficial fascia. This is thought to improve lymphatic movement and blood flow.
Is Kinesio Tape Effective?
Is Kinesio Tape Effective?
The effectiveness of Kinesio tape is widely debated. The research is unclear as to whether it helps people move and feel better. Anecdotally, some clients say it helps, while others say it doesn't do much. If you're thinking about whether kinesio tape is worth it for you, there are three key things to consider:
The risk/reward of taping. There is virtually no risk with taping. That said, it can be a bit costly over the long term, so you might be out of pocket a few dollars.
Kinesio tape, when used by itself, will probably not fix you. Rather, the tape might be considered one piece of a well-rounded plan that includes some active therapy (i.e., mobility, stability, and strengthening work).
Try the Kinesio tape and see if you feel better. If you do, then it works.
When Would Kinesio Tape Be Used?
When Would Kinesio Tape Be Used?
Kinesio tape is often used for the following issues/conditions:
Swelling/edema
Muscle strains
Pain
Improving range of motion
Tendonopathies
When to Consider Other Approaches
When to Consider Other Approaches
There are times/conditions when kinesio tape might not be a great idea for you. These conditions/issues might include:
Open wound
Infection (cellulitis)
Deep vein thrombosis
Skin sensitivity or allergy to the tape
If you are not sure, or even if you think you are sure that kinesio tape is safe for you, please talk with your doctor!
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