Kinesio Taping Basics

KinesioTaping FAQ-Cedar Rapids

One technique that I usein my Cedar Rapids Chiropractic office is a special tape called Kinesio Tape. You most likely have seen it, whether it be on the olympics, or othermajor sporting event. It’s that bright pink, blue, or black tape thatappears on all parts of athletes. This blog post will answer cover thevery basics of Kinesio Taping and it’s origins.

 1. Where did the word “Kinesio” come from? The name comes from the science of Kinesiology, because the tapingmethod and tape allows the body and muscles to move while it assists inrehabilitation.

 2. What does Kinesio Taping® and tape do?
Kinesio Taping® Method is applied over muscles to reduce pain & inflammation,relax overused tired muscles, and to support muscles in movement on a 24hr/daybasis. It is not a restrictive type of taping, and allows for full range ofmotion. In contrast, traditional sports taping is wrapped around a jointstrictly for stabilization and support during a sporting event. Kinesio® tapeis used for a wide range of problems. Examples include: carpal tunnel syndrome,lower back strain/pain, subluxations, herniated disc, knee conditions, shoulderconditions,sports injuries, etc.

 3. Why is Kinesio® Tape used so much moreaccepted than other tapes?
It has a number of benefits that are not achievable with other tapes. It hasOne Hundred Percent High Grade Cotton – for comfort and breathing, One Hundredand Forty Per Cent Elastic – same flexibility as human skin, Heat ActivatedAdhesive – although very light, mild and hypo-allergenic Latex Free, AirCirculation Waves – to channel out sweat and water and enhance skin breathing,Durable – average usage 3-4 days per application, More Economical – usually 6-7applications per roll of tape.

 4. Is it the tape or the technique that givessuch great results?
Without a doubt, the technique is the most unique, however, the full benefitswere not possible until Kinesio® tape was developed. The taping method requiresa tape that is patient and skin friendly, possesses optimum elastic qualities,the same thickness as the skin, and is durable enough to stay on multiple dayseven through persperaton, sweat and showers.

 5. How is the tape applied?
Without getting too technical, the tape is applied over the affected area withthe muscles in a stretched position. Then the tape is applied from one end ofthe muscle to the other with very little stretch of the tape. The tape isapplied from the ORIGIN to INSERTION of the muscle for SUPPORT and fromINSERTION to ORIGIN for muscle relaxation.

 6. What are the concerns or difficulties withKinesio Taping® (Trouble Shooting)?
A.) Skin needs to be free of oil, sweat, or lotion prior to application
B.) After application rub down tape to activate heat sensitive glue
C.) Avoid extreme stretching of the tape during application to avoid skinirritation
D.) Apply approx. 1 hr prior to activity or shower to allow glue to adhereproperly
E.) Skin irritation is extremely rare, but special care should be taken withhypersensitive skin patients.

That’s the basics ofKinesio Taping, I will get more in depth in upcoming posts, and also plan onposting some how to videos on Kinesio taping as well.

If you live in Cedar Rapids, and would like to talk more about Kinesio Tape, give our Cedar Rapids Chiropractic office a call today at 319-393-4303.

*2022 Update:  We no longer provide Kinesio Taping services in our office.  However, if you would like some help applying some during one of your visits, just bring your tape along