At Classic Chiropractic we tape a lot of people using Kinesio tape. For most patients unless they have recently been involved in athletics it's their first exposure. This raises a lot of questions: What is it? How is it different from normal tape? How does it work? How long do I leave it on? I thought it would be good to take a moment and give some answers.
What is Kinesio tape?
Kinesio tape is an elastic cloth tape with a rigid hypo-allergenic adhesive. It is cut and placed in different patterns depending on the injury or need. It was developed in 1979 by Dr. Kenso Kase, a Japanese chiropractor. The tape really came to the forefront at the 2008 Summer Olympics when Kerri Walsh (US gold medal beach volleyball player) was seen wearing it to support her surgically repaired right shoulder.
How is Kinesio tape different from normal sports tape?
Traditional tape and taping methods sought to immobilize the injured area. However, Kinesio tape seeks to allow full range of motion of the effected area while giving support and pain relief. This allows the patient or athlete to heal faster and form less scar tissue.
How does Kinesio tape work?
Kinesio tape works by pulling up lightly on the skin and causing an increased separation in the layers between the skin, fascia, muscles, and circulatory system. This increased layering allows better blood and lympahtic flow to and away from the injured area. By decreasing inflammation you speed up healing times. Kinesio tape also reduces pain by reducing the amount of pressure exerted on the pain receptors where it is applied.
How long do I leave it on?
You can leave Kinesio tape on for four days. The tape is cloth so yes you can shower/bathe. The removal of the tape can be a little tricky but some lotion or oil can help.
Kinesio tape has had a huge impact on the athletic world. We believe our patient's should get the same great care.