Kinesiology Taping

Origin: The kinesiology method originated in 1979 and was developed by Japanese Chiropractor Dr. Kenso Kase.

Philosophy: The tape gently lifts the skin and tissue without restricting movement allowing for improved circulation of oxygen, blood, and lymphatic fluid and thus improving healing and speeding recovery.

Function: There are four major functions of kinesiology taping with multiple sub-functions.

• Supports the muscle- Assists muscle function/performance, allows for increased
  
  
• ROM, healing, decreased fatigue, and decreased cramping,
  
  
• Removing congestion to the flow of body fluids- Allows for increased circulation, blood, oxygen and lymphatic flow, decreased swelling, and temperature reduction.
  
  
• Activating the endogenous analgesic system-Decreased pain, possible spinal inhibition, activation of descending inhibition, gait theory of pain
  
  
• Correcting joint problems-realign joint, muscle tone, ROM, and decreased pain
  
  Application: Inhibition vs Facilitation
  
  When applying to a injured or overused muscle needing relief and healing from pain or tightness the tape is usually placed from insertion to origin of the muscle with 0 to 15% stretch, this is to relax or inhibit the muscle.
  
  When desiring to facilitate a muscle like those that are weakened, chronically injured, needing support or ROM applying from origin to insertion with 25-75% stretch is usually used.
  
  For application, whether it be to inhibit or facilitate, the muscle should be placed on a stretch.
  
  Techniques/types of cuts: Fingers, Band-Aid, Star- techniques are typically used for swelling, bruising, and lymph drainage and I, Y, T cuts for supporting or facilitating a muscle. These are only some of the techniques and will vary depending on the person, situation and desired effect.
  
  Contraindications/precautions: DVT, open wounds, infection, CHF with edema, diabetes, kidney disease, respiratory conditions, sensitive skin, currently under treatment for any form of cancer, numbness under tape.
  
  Tips: Some brands of Kinesiology tape offer pre-cut tape however not everyone is the same size, for this reason using a roll of tape may work better as it allows you to customize the length and cut (I, Y, etc) of the tape for every person/injury.
  
  Once applied rub tape to activate adhesive.
  
  Tape usually lasts between 2-5 days and can be worn even when showering, swimming, or during vigorous activity.
  
  Kinesiology taping is just another tool in the toolbox, it won't be right for every injury but many may benefit from it. If you have any questions or wonder if this technique may be beneficial to you feel free to ask your physical therapist or contact Rebound Sports and Orthopedic Physical Therapy at 315-673-1007.