Kinesiology
Kinesiology, also known as human kinetics, is the scientific study of human movement. Kinesiology addresses physiological, mechanical, and psychological mechanisms. Applications of kinesiology to human health include biomechanics and orthopedics; strength and conditioning; spor…
What exactly is the deal with kinesiology tape?
What is kinesiology tape used for?
- Treating injuries. Physical therapists sometimes use kinesiology taping as one part of an overall treatment plan for people who’ve been injured.
- Supporting weak zones. Kinesiology tape is also used to add extra support to muscles or joints that need it. ...
- Re-educating muscles. ...
- Enhancing performance. ...
- Managing scars. ...
Who should use kinesiology tape?
Kinesiology tape is also used to add extra support to muscles or joints that need it. If you have patellofemoral stress syndrome, IT band friction syndrome, or Achilles tendonitis, kinesiology taping might help you. Unlike white medical or athletic tape, kinesiology tape lets you move normally.
What is Kinesio Tape, and what does it do?
Kinesio Tape is a hypoallergenic, latex-free tape that can be worn for several days at a time. The tape is made from 100% elastic fibers that only stretch on the longitudinal axis. If you look at Kinesio Tape up close, you will notice a wave-like pattern. This is designed to mimic human fingerprints and allow the tape to “breathe”.
What is Kinesiology Tape and how does it work?
Kinesiology Tape is an elasatic theraputic tape that externally supports joints. It is assisting in lymphatic drainage, increasing localized circulation, and activating the endogenous analgesic system, all while maintaining full range of motion. Combining Kinesiology Tape with a proprietary transdermal delivery system was a natural step in ...
When do you use kinesiology tape?
What is kinesiology tape used for?Treating injuries. Physical therapists sometimes use kinesiology taping as one part of an overall treatment plan for people who've been injured. ... Supporting weak zones. ... Re-educating muscles. ... Enhancing performance. ... Managing scars.
Does kinesiology tape actually work?
None of the studies showed any significant benefits regarding long-term pain alleviation, or improved strength or range of motion. The authors of both reviews concluded that there is insufficient evidence to support the use of kinesio tape to prevent or treat injuries, or to improve strength or range of motion.
How long should you leave KT tape on?
K-Tape is designed to stay on for an average of 3-4 days. The adhesive is heat sensitive, so your doctor will rub the tape to make sure it properly adheres to your skin. After 1-2 hours of normal activity, the K-Tape should be properly bonded to the treated area.
How does KT Tape relieve pain?
The buildup of lymphatic fluid can place increased pressure on the body's muscles and tissue. As a result, you may experience discomfort and pain. When applied correctly, KT Tape lifts the skin and allows lymphatic fluid to flow rather than build up.
What do the different colors of KT Tape mean?
There is no physical or chemical difference between the colors. The colors were developed to be compatible with color therapy. The beige was created for minimal visibility and the black was created after many requests. Color choice is a matter of individual preference.
How do you remove KT Tape?
0:251:49KT Tape: Tape Removal - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd removing it by pulling the skin away from the tape. This way you won't irritate the skin. SoMoreAnd removing it by pulling the skin away from the tape. This way you won't irritate the skin. So again take a corner of the tape. And putting the tape back to back.
What are the disadvantages of taping?
Disadvantages of tapingCan be bulky (particularly if using a bracing option)Can be harmful if not performed correctly (e.g. further injury, skin damage, etc.)Can restrict movement and therefore performance.Could increase risk of injury to other joints.Can be costly.More items...•
Can you apply kinesiology tape yourself?
You can apply Kinesiology Tape yourself at home, or under guidance from your Physio or Sports Therapist.
Do you shower with KT Tape on?
Kinesio Tape® is water resistant. You may shower, bathe and swim with Kinesio Tape® on the skin. Let the tape air dry, or pat dry with a towel (do not use a hair dryer to dry). Avoid sun/excessive heat on the tape.
Can you wear KT Tape everyday?
Kinesiology tape can be worn for up to five days, if necessary, allowing the wearer to protect an injury without having to take complete rest.
Does KT Tape heal injuries?
According to a study published by the National Institutes of Health, Kinesio Taping (KT) has been proven effective for both the prevention and treatment of musculoskeletal injuries. It's also highly effective for treating neuromuscular and neurological conditions.
Is KT Tape good for arthritis?
[Conclusion] Kinesiology taping therapy is considered to be an effective nonsurgical intervention method for pain relief, daily living activities, and range of motion of degenerative knee arthritis patients.
How long does it take for KT Tape to work?
The tape can usually stay in place for three or four days even while showering or exercising. Positive results are reported to be felt within 24 hours for many users of kinesiology tape.
Is Kinesio tape a placebo?
3:075:26Is Kinesiology Tape (KT) a Placebo? (Physical Therapist Explains ScienceYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipWhen used for a range of musculoskeletal conditions kinesiotaping had no benefit over sham tapingMoreWhen used for a range of musculoskeletal conditions kinesiotaping had no benefit over sham taping placebo. And active comparison therapies the benefit was too small to be clinically worthwhile.
What is in KT Tape that makes it work?
KT Tape Original and Gentle tape are made of 100% cotton fibers with specialized elastic cores. KT Tape PRO, PRO Extreme and PRO X are made using a highly engineered, ultra-durable synthetic fabric with 30% stronger elastic cores.
Does Kinesio tape reduce swelling?
Conclusion: The application of Kinesio Taping, with the aim of stimulating the lymphatic system, is ineffective in decreasing acute swelling after an ankle sprain in athletes.
What is kinesiology tape?
Kinesiology tape is a therapeutic tape that is used to support muscles and joints and help reduce pain. It is often used by athletic trainers, athletes, and physical therapists. TheraBand Kinesiology Tape. Add to Cart. Add to Wish List Add to Compare.
How to tell if kinesiology tape is stretchy?
TheraBand Kinesiology Tape has Xact Stretch Indicators that make it easy to tell when your tape is stretch is 25% and 50%, just look at the hexagons on the tape. (This information is on the back of the tape too in case you need a reminder during application.)
How many cuts are there in kinesiology?
There are 3 common kinesiology tape cuts used when taping.
How to make a tension tape?
Cut the tape and remove the backing. Cut an appropriate length of tape and round the edges. Remember, if you’re applying tension the tape should be slightly shorter than the length of where it’s being applied. Tear the backing leaving 2-4 centimeters on each end for anchors.
What happens when you put tape on your skin?
Gate Control Theory: When you apply tape on top of the skin, the sensation is sent into the central nervous system, and overrides the pain signal so it doesn’t reach the brain. Changing muscle activation. Increasing circulation.
Does kinesiology tape reduce swelling?
Studies have found that using kinesiology tape to reduce swelling resulted in faster reduction of edema 2. Increased Blood Flow. Kinesiology tape increased blood flow to the skin where it was applied 3.
Is kinesiology tape good for pain?
Another study found that kinesiology tape may be an effective pain relief intervention similar to ice or heat, but should be used alongside other proven therapies like exercise or manual therapy (rather than in lieu of) 8. Reduced Swelling.
Why do we use kinesiology tape?
In general, it is thought that kinesiology tape helps to create balance in the neural circuitry in muscles, tendons, joints, and skin. This is thought to work to reduce pain, decrease swelling, and improve muscle performance and function.
How does kinesiology tape work?
First, it is thought to change the proprioception input of the sensory nervous system in the muscles, joints, and skin. 1 The tape is thought to improve the interaction between the skin and the underlying structures to help reset the circuitry of this part of the nervous system resulting in improved muscular activation and performance.
What is the difference between athletic tape and kinesiology tape?
While kinesiology tape seems a lot like a fancy form of athletic tape, there are many differences between the two. Athletic tape is used for support and to limit motion, and kinesiology tape is used to facilitate motion and inhibit pain and spasm.
What kind of therapist can help you decide which tape is best for your specific condition?
Your physical therapist can help you decide which tape is best for your specific condition.
What is the best way to help a person with mobility issues?
Your physical therapist may use various exercises and modalities to help treat your specific problem.
Is Rocktape a good kinesiology tape?
To support the use of kinesiology tape to improve athletic performance, RockTape conducted a study of 5 cyclists and found that they performed 2-6% better with the application of kinesiology tape (specifically RockTape) when compared to not using the tape. 9 Of course, the study is loaded with bias, as it was sponsored by RockTape, consisted of only 5 athletes, and there was no control group.
Is kinesiology a new concept?
Since kinesiology taping is a relatively new and novel concept in the field of physical therapy, much research still needs to be done to understand the mechanisms of how the tape works and if it truly lives up to its claims.
Why is kinesiology tape important?
For competitive athletes, remaining active is one of the most important benefits of kinesiology taping. Overstretching or overcontraction of injured muscles can be prevented by applying kinesiology tapes. It also enables the athletes to continue their training while their injury heals. This is attributed to the anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties of the kinesiology tape.
How does kinesiology tape work?
It is capable of slightly lifting the skin due to its elasticity. The pressure is immediately reduced on the sensitive pain receptors under the skin. A competitive stimulus is provided by the stimulating effect on pain pathways. Thus, the pain signals going to the brain are blocked. It is especially effective in cases of "hot" injuries, wherein the pain is extreme and out of proportion.
Who can benefit from kinesiology taping?
Individuals with a job that requires repetitive motion. They include mechanics, miners, construction workers, and landscapers.
What are the byproducts of exercise?
By-products of exercise are present in overused or fatigued muscles. When kinesiology tape is applied over the affected areas, the removal of these byproducts is enhanced, thereby enabling a speedy and rapid recovery. Through enhanced blood flow, the delivery of oxygen is also improved . Hence, there would be an improved performance in an endurance event, and a complete recovery between high-intensity, repetitive events.
Does kinesiology help with back pain?
In 2016, a study published in the Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies showed the effectiveness of kinesiology taping when it comes to relieving low back pain. According to the study, when kinesiology taping is combined with other therapeutic modalities such as physical therapy, a decrease in lower back pain can be achieved. Its findings showed that the range of motion, motor control, and muscular endurance could be improved by kinesiology taping.
Can kinesiology tape be used for shoulder impingement?
However, for patients with shoulder impingement, the use of kinesiology tape should be used as an adjuvant treatment and not as a stand-alone solution.
The Origins of Kinesiology Tape
What is kinesiology tape? Let’s first discuss its origins. The original product was developed in the late 1970s by Dr. Kenzo Kase, a Japanese chiropractor who wanted an athletic tape that works better than traditional athletic tapes.
The Many Uses of Kinesiology Tape
What is kinesiology tape used for? Kinesiology tapes are more than just colorful tapes athletes use. Kinesiology tape is most often used for:
How To Use Kinesiology Tape?
Aside from answering the question, “what is kinesiology tape?” we’ll also cover how to use it. Before buying kinesiology tape, you should first consult a medical professional trained in the Kinesio Taping Method to show you how to apply it.
Advanced Chiropractors Group Is Here For You
If you are interested in using kinesiology tape and are a candidate for it, consult a licensed physical therapist or chiropractor.
Why use kinesiology tape?
Physical therapists and sports medicine professionals all turn to kinesiology tape for different reasons, applying the elastic tape to problem areas to better improve a joint's motion or function. It may also be used to handle scar tissue recovery, posture issues and improve what's known as proprioception, a link between your nervous system and invisible perception of your body, explains Eni Kadar, PT, DPT, a licensed orthopedic physical therapist who regularly turns to an array of body tape in clinical treatment. More commonly, though, kinesiology tape can work to increase blood flow to an area of your choosing.
When should I consider using kinesiology tape?
Any kind of chronic pain for a joint or muscle that may be overused daily, as well as posture-related body pain, may be partially managed with kinesiology tape. With a chronic injury that's been causing you pain for weeks or months on end, your nervous system and pain regulators may have become even more sensitive to the area and injury itself, which is why kinesiology tape is paired with other efforts to manage the pain. "The most common body parts I tape are shoulders, knees and lower backs ," Kadar tells us.
How to keep kinesiology tape in place?
Pat it dry after exercising or bathing. Since kinesiology tape is designed to stay firmly in place for at least a few days, there's a good chance your tape will get drenched at some point. Sweat or water shouldn't be an issue, but you can prolong the quality of the tape's seal on your skin by patting the edges dry afterwards. "It'll ensure the ends don't roll up," Kadar explains.
Does kinesiology tape help with lymphatic drainage?
A targeted study published in the Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases suggested that kinesiology tape vastly improved blood flow and reduced lymphatic buildup in women who underwent a total knee replacement; it's backed by another 2017 study that found kinesiology tape noticeably lowered the risk for joint irritation on uninjured knees by gently lifting and supporting the skin upon application.
Is kinesiology tape good for sports?
Sports fans and spectators would be hard-pressed to find an athlete on the court or in the field not sporting a swath of kinesiology tape. But unless you've expressly paid a visit to a physical therapist for rehab or an injury, kinesiology tape is likely something that you haven't considered in managing body pain. The product, which is exactly what it sounds like — a topical tape applied to your skin in areas that are injured or experiencing inflammation — is used to mitigate body pain by experts who swear by it. It's very sticky and resistant to sweat, water and lots of intense, rapid movement, standing up to its own test in rigorous sports.
Can you use kinesiology tape on a stretch?
"The idea is that if you tape the muscle or joint in a stretch position, [tape] is supposed to increase circulation and awareness," she explains. "If you tape the joint in a shortened [relaxed] position, it is supposed to work on pain and muscle activation."
Does kinesiology tape help with inflammation?
But current data is able to truly substantiate its ability to increase blood flow. This, in turn, can help aid injury recovery and decrease inflammation overall.
What is kinesiology tape?
Chiropractor Kenzo Kase invented kinesiology tape in the 1970s. The therapeutic, latex-free tape is made of cotton (or a cotton blend) and uses an acrylic adhesive to stick to your skin. You can wear it on muscles or joints while exercising or playing a sport.
What is kinesiology tape used for?
People use kinesiology tape for various reasons. As one survey notes, healthcare providers, including physical therapists, might use it as part of a complete treatment plan to help patients recover from injury. Others might use it to prevent injury or improve athletic performance.
Can I use kinesiology tape at home?
Kinesiology tape is widely available. And brands usually include instructions on how to apply the adhesive. So you can use it at home. But it's a good idea to check with a healthcare provider first. They can let you know if it's safe to use kinesiology tape and even help with proper application.
When should I not use kinesiology tape?
You should not use kinesiology tape if your healthcare provider advises against it. You should also avoid using it in the following situations:
The bottom line
Kinesiology tape is a stretchy adhesive designed to support muscles and joints. Popular brands claim that it can relieve pain and promote healing after injury. And studies suggest that kinesiology tape may reduce pain from certain musculoskeletal conditions.
What is kinesiology tape?
Kinesio Tape (KT), or kinesiology tape, is used by therapists to change muscle tone, move lymphatic fluids, correct movement patterns, and improve posture. Kinesio Tape (KT), or kinesiology tape, is a newly popularized modality that is used by therapists trained in the Kinesio Taping Method by Certified Kinesio Taping Instructors (CKTI).
What is kinesio tex tape used for?
Kinesio Tex Tape is used to improve joint alignment by affecting the muscles and fascia and can reduce poor function of a joint by influencing opposing muscle groups and joint mobility.
How does KT tape work?
The following are the current theories of how properly applied Kinesio Tape works:
How does kinesio tape affect the body?
Kinesio Tape alters the information that these receptors send to the brain and causes a less reactive response in the body, allowing the body to work in a more normal manner and removing some of the roadblocks that normally slow down the healing process. Kinesio Tape also is felt to affect deeper tissues in the body.
What is the kinesio tape method?
The Kinesio Taping Method. The Kinesio Taping Method is believed to cause physiological effects on several body systems. The systems affected by the body are thought to include. the circulatory/lymphatic, neural, muscular, and. fascial systems, as well as. the joints.
How much can kinesio tape be stretched?
The tape can be stretched 40%-60% of its resting length. The tape has no medicinal properties. The thickness and weight of the tape is designed to approximate the weight and thickness of skin. Kinesio Tape was created and developed by Dr. Kenzo Kase in 1973.
How long does McConnell tape last?
McConnell Tape uses a very rigid, highly adhesive tape that is applied for no more than 18 hours and often for shorter periods of time due to patient discomfort. Picture of Kinesio Tape.
What is kinesiology tape?
Kinesiology tape is a type of bandage that is used to help treat injuries and pain.
Why do people use it?
People use Kinesiology Tape for a variety of reasons. Some people use it to help treat injuries and illnesses. Others use it to improve their performance in sports or workouts. Still others use it to reduce muscle pain.
What are the benefits of using 3M kinesiology tape?
Kinesiology tape is a type of tape that is used to treat various injuries and pain. It has a variety of benefits that can make it an important tool in the treatment of certain conditions.
How can 3M Kinesiology Tape be used in daily life?
3M Kinesiology Tape is a versatile product that can be used for a variety of purposes. Here are a few examples of how M Kinesiology Tape can be helpful in daily life:
Where can one find 3M Kinesiology Tape?
If you’re looking to improve your workout, then you’ll need to have Kinesiology tapes. These tapes can help to increase flexibility, circulation, and range of motion.
Conclusion
If you are looking to increase the efficiency of your movements, you will need to invest in some kinesiology tapes. These types of tapes can help reduce inflammation and pain in the extremities, which is why they are so popular among athletes and bodybuilders.
How Exactly Does Kinesiology Tape Work?
While there might not be a whole lot of research on kinesiology tape and its function, there is a theory behind how kinesiology tape works.
Who Can Use Kinesiology Tape?
Kinesiology tape can be used by anyone at any age, from children to the elderly. And it can be used in a lot of applications to help any pain or dysfunction in your body’s musculoskeletal system. Anyone can use kinesiology tape, provided they have some guidance and maybe a second pair of hands to reach some areas. But once learned, application is easy. Even though the glue found on the tape is tough and durable, it can be removed easily, with little discomfort and leaves almost no residue on your skin. Additionally, the glue and tape itself contains no latex, so those people who are allergic to most other types of tapes are able to use it.
Can kinesiology tape cause skin irritation?
Kinesiology tape can very rarely cause an irritation or allergic reaction in the skin for some individuals. In these cases, it is best to have it removed immediately and explore other treatment options.
Treatment
Origins
- Kinesiology tape was developed in the 1970s by a chiropractor named Dr. Kenso Kase, DC. He found that using a flexible tape that harnessed the interface between the skin and the muscles could provide long-lasting effects for his patients. He developed many of the techniques used in kinesiology taping today, and he also has his own brand of tape called Kinesiotape.
Purpose
- While kinesiology tape seems a lot like a fancy form of athletic tape, there are many differences between the two. Athletic tape is used for support and to limit motion, and kinesiology tape is used to facilitate motion and inhibit pain and spasm. Kinesiology tape is a flexible material that moves when you move; athletic tape is relatively inflexib...
Usage
- Kinesiology tape serves different functions when applied. Your physical therapist will perform an evaluation and assessment to determine the best use of kinesiology tape for your condition. He or she will assess if the tape is even necessary for you or if there are any contraindications to using the tape. There are many different uses for kinesiology tape. Your physical therapist can assess …
Mechanism of action
- There are different theories about how kinesiology tape works. First, it is thought to change the proprioception input of the sensory nervous system in the muscles, joints, and skin. The tape is thought to improve the interaction between the skin and the underlying structures to help reset the circuitry of this part of the nervous system resulting in improved muscular activation and perfor…
Benefits
- In general, it is thought that kinesiology tape helps to create balance in the neural circuitry in muscles, tendons, joints, and skin. This is thought to work to reduce pain, decrease swelling, and improve muscle performance and function.
Clinical significance
- Kinesiology tape is also thought to realign joint positions, and it may also be useful in remodeling collagen tissues such as in scar tissue management.
Performance
- To support the use of kinesiology tape to improve athletic performance, RockTape conducted a study of 5 cyclists and found that they performed 2-6% better with the application of kinesiology tape (specifically RockTape) when compared to not using the tape. Of course, the study is loaded with bias, as it was sponsored by RockTape, consisted of only 5 athletes, and there was no contr…
Research
- Other studies have examined the effect of kinesiology taping and pain, swelling, and improved mobility with varied results. The bottom line: the jury is still out on kinesiology taping, and more work needs to be done.