More and more athletes these days are looking into non-invasive methods of curing their aches and pains. One method that has become more popular in recent years it the use of Kinesio tape.Dr. Kenzo Kase first developed this method in the late 1970’s after realizing that manual therapy was effective for temporary relief of different ailments. He was looking for something to provide relief between chiropractic sessions to increase the usefulness of manual therapy. Kinesio tape had made its way to the western world in the mid-90’s, becoming more popular in Europe and the United States over the last ten years.
What is Kinesio tape?
Kinesio, or K-tape, is made of elastic fibers with a wave like pattern on the adhesive strip that is applied directly to the skin. This is allows both for the tape to be breathable as well as at the same time mimic fingerprints that stimulate the underlying tissue. Application of the tape is important for effectiveness due to the uniqueness of its properties. The fibers in the tape have the ability to stretch length wise by up to 60%, which allows for tensile strength to be manipulated by the clinician and comfort over bending joints.
When applied properly, the tape manipulates the upper layers of skin in order to relieve pressure on the lymph channels (fluid) by creating more space for drainage through the affected areas. The increased space also allows the muscles to have greater contractility which results in better muscle performance. This also allows the Kinesio Tape to alter information that pain receptors send to the brain and cause a less reactive response in the body.
Uses for Kinesiotape can vary by group and necessity. Orthopedic, neurologic, and autonomic pathologies can all be treated from some variation of Kinesiotape.
Specific treatments are more commonly used for:
- Stabilization of muscles and ligaments
- Provide posture correction reminders
- Decrease pain/ Increase functionality
- Reduce bruising
- Scar maturation and adhesion reduction
- Promotion of lymph flow/ Edema control
Not Just for Humans
Kinesiotape also have applications in Equine athletes! Can you believe it? The same principles are used as with humans, although a stronger adhesive is used. There is also a natural flavor additive to prevent to horse from licking the tape off the treatment area. So whether you are walk up-right or trot on all fours, you could consider Kinesiotape as a non-invasive method for treatment.
By: Riki Duncan, MA. Ed, ATC, LAT
Sources:
https://breakingmuscle.com/mobility-recovery/kinesio-tape-what-is-it-and-what-s-the-hype