What is Kinesiology Taping? Why use it?
As another tool in your physical therapist’s kit, the application of rehabilitative taping is used to aid the healing process. Taping provides support and stability to joints and muscles without restricting range of motion. Kinesiology tape is distinct from standard athletic cloth tape because it is elastic, and different from an elastic (“ACE”) bandage because it is adhesive.
Pain Relief
The benefit of k-taping actually starts at the surface. The slight lifting of the skin that happens in the taped area can relieve pressure on aggravated pain receptors as well as offer a competing stimulus that actually blocks pain signals from reaching the brain. K-tape does not contain medication or any topical substance to achieve this pain relief.
Decreased Inflammation
The same skin/tissue” lifting” that achieves pain relief also reduces pressure on an injured area, allowing for fluid drainage to decrease inflammation. K-tape can have a dramatically positive effect on a bruised area, allowing blood accumulated under the skin to dissipate more quickly.
Support and Stability
The elastic property of k-tape means that it can provide support to injured joints or muscles without restricting range of motion. This allows people to remain active while healing from an injury while preventing over-stretching or over-contracting of muscles. In people who suffer from poorly toned or weak muscles, k-tape can improve muscle activation and make exercise more effective. Taping can also help improve overall posture.
FAQs
Is kinesiology taping only for athletes?
A: No. The benefits of k-taping apply to athletes and non-athletes alike, for treating a wide range of injuries, and to aid in conditioning weak muscles or unstable joints.
Who is trained to apply kinesiology tape? Can I learn to apply it myself?
A: Physical therapists are trained to apply k-tape, as are many coaching and training professionals, and it’s okay to ask the person who recommends taping about their training. You should always learn from a trained professional, and it is best for you to only apply k-tape to the specific area and in the specific way you have been instructed.
Does the color of k-tape mean anything?
A: No. The color of a person’s k-tape is a personal preference. The brand we use (RockTape®) comes in a wide range of colors and patterns, but also in standard beige.
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