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Kinesio Taping

Have you ever heard of Kinesio Taping? What about Kinesiology? Currently, there are more than thirty brands of kinesiology tape in the market. Developed back in the late 70s, this is a tape designed by Dr Kenzo, a Japanese chiropractor who was looking for a tape to provide support without limiting movement like the traditional athletic tapes. In fact, if you have ever watched sports such as volleyball, you might have seen strip-like tapes on the knees, the back, or even on the as.

Basically, a kinesiology tape is a therapeutic tape used on a person’s body to support the body, reduce pain, and even improve the output of a person. Over the years of use, Kinesio taping has achieved great success, especially due to its practicality; it does not even get in the way of what you are doing.

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Kinesio Taping History

Kinesiology taping, or “KT” as it is commonly known, has been used for a long time to prevent and treat sporting injuries. The original intent of the Japanese Chiropractor Dr Kenzo Kase in developing this therapeutic tool was with the intention that his invention would alleviate pain through improved circulation within soft tissues.There are numerous advantages of using kt, including:

  • Proprioceptive facilitation;
  • Reduced muscle fatigue ;

Greater torque production by fast-twitch muscles due to increased blood flow during training sessions allows athletes to perform better at their peak level both now.

How A Kinesio Tape Works

One thing you need to note about this tape is that it is pretty stretchy. This is because it is made using a blend of cotton and nylon. It is designed in a way that mimics the elasticity of your skin, ensuring that it stretches as much without hindering any movement. Additionally, it is made using a particular type of adhesive that does not get damaged by water, sweat, etc. the medical-grade adhesive is also strong enough to hold the tape firmly for days on end. This means that you can exercise, as usual, work out, and even take showers while the tape is still on. It can stay on for three to four days while it’s fully functional.

Once the tape has been applied to the body, it will first assume recoiled shapes that gently lift your skin. This is believed to create a space (even though minute) between the skin and tissues underneath.

A Kinesio tape can also have other purposes. For example, if you are using it on your knee, it will increase the space between your knee joint. Even though the increased space is not that big, it goes a long way in reducing joint irritation, therefore cutting down on the pain.

KINESIO TAPING
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What Is It Used For

  • To treat injuries

Physical therapists have been using this tape as a part of a treatment plan for people with injuries. Using hand in hand with manual treatment, the results achieved so far have been tremendous.

  • To support weak areas.

You can also use a Kinesio tape to provide more support to joints or muscles that require some. People with patellofemoral stress syndrome, tendonitis, and such problems can benefit significantly from the tape.

  • Improving the performance

A Kinesio tape can help you reach performance while at the same time protecting you against injuries when participating in sport. For example, footballers and marathoners have been seen using the tape, especially when they want to “wake up” their muscles and keep them active.

  • To manage scars

Even though it is not advisable to use the Kinesio tape on open wounds, you can still use it to improve the long-term appearance of a scar. Several studies have proven this, but you should always discuss the option with your doctor.

The Fundamentals Of Kinesio Taping Application

Here are some of the practices physiotherapists use when they apply KT:

  • Scrapes, wounds, burns, sunburn, or any other sort of skin rash/irritation should not be covered with tape.
  • Before applying, make sure your skin is clean of oils and lotion.
  • If body hair is preventing adhesion, the area may need to be trimmed or shaved.
  • Do not use excessive tension when applying.
  • If the patient has been exercising, make sure the sweat has ceased entirely before applying the cream.
  • If you’re going to use a roll of tape, make sure you measure and cut it correctly.
  • To prevent early flaking, round all of the tape’s edges.
  • After removing the backing, avoid contacting the adhesive side of the tape, as this may reduce the adhesive strength on the skin.
  • After applying the tape, activate the heat-sensitive adhesive by rubbing it up and down the tape’s surface.
  • Before indulging in any activity that promotes sweating, wait at least 1 hour after application.
  • After application, do not swim or shower for at least 1 hour.
  • After exercising, swimming, or showering, pat the tape gently with a towel to dry it.

Conclusion

Kinesio tapes effectively manage pain and improve performance, and physiotherapists all over the globe use them. However, it would be better first to discuss it as an option with your healthcare provider for a proper assessment so that you get the best out of it.

 

Why Choose Physiotherapy First for Chronic Pain Treatments and Services?

Our Brampton physiotherapists are well-educated and trained in the latest techniques and methods used for Kinesio taping. They undergo ongoing training and certification programs to further provide exceptional quality of care for each of our patients.

To learn more about Kinesio taping physiotherapy treatments and services, how they could benefit you, or to schedule an initial consultation, please feel free to call Physiotherapy First at 905-796-6662 today!

We look forward to speaking with you to answer any questions you may have, discussing your health benefits plan coverage, and helping you alleviate your pain and discomfort to feel better.

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