Generally speaking, kinesiotape is a type of elastic therapeutic tape that can be applied to help with a variety of musculoskeletal injuries. Kinesiotape originated in the 1970’s by Dr. Kenso Kase, a chiropractor from Japan. Dr. Kase found a need for a flexible tape that allowed for fluidity of motion while supporting functional movement patterns, as previous rigid athletic tapes tend to be more restrictive.
Kinesiotape differs from standard athletic taping techniques in that traditional taping methods are used to provide support via degrees of immobility. However, as a lighter more pliable taping technique, kinesiotape can be applied to facilitate or inhibit motion without restriction. Kinesiotape is a flexible combination of cotton and spandex with adhesive backing to allow application directly to the skin. To read other articles by JOI Rehab and taping, go to Kinesiotape.
As previously mentioned, Kinesiotape has a variety of benefits depending upon the direction of the tape and associated application method. Kinesiotape is applied directly to the skin, creating a subtle separation of superficial skin and the associated connective soft tissues. The intensity of tape application can be modified by the amount of tension applied to the tape prior to placement. Kinesiotape is used to provide body awareness and proprioceptive feedback that allows for improved quality of muscle activation, resulting in improved muscular function. The tactile feedback from kinesiotape application can also help to reduce the pain response of muscle spasms by inhibiting pain receptors of the skin and musculoskeletal system.
Kinesiotape best applied by a medical professional to ensure proper placement and application
Kinesiotape is best applied by a medical professional to ensure proper placement and application. Correction tape application is crucial to effectiveness of kinesiotape, as the direction of the tape plays an important role in tape function. Typically, tape is applied from origin (closest to the body) to insertion (further away towards extremities) in order to provide functional support.
In contrast, kinesiotape can be applied from insertion to origin to assist with muscle activation and functional movements. Once applied, kinesiotape can last anywhere between 2-5 days and can be removed once the tape begins to peal up on the edges. It is best to remove kinesiotape in the shower, using steam to break down the adhesive while tape is gentle removed. Patients can be educated on non-complex taping techniques by an appropriate clinician if tape needs to be applied between treatment sessions.
For best application of kinesiotape, it is important to remember a few guidelines for taping:
Kinesiotape can provide general support to the shoulder complex during athletics
Kinesiotape is most effective when used in combination of traditional physical therapy techniques to address the root cause of musculoskeletal pain. While attending physical therapy, your clinician may use the following taping techniques to help ease your pain until your mobility and strength improve.
By: Lisa Chekanowsky, MS, ATC, LAT, PES
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