Kinesiotape

Applying kinesiotape to the back

You have probably seen the colorful tape on athletes and wondered what it is. It's called kinesiotape and we have seen great results when using it with patients. Kinesio means "movement".

It is nothing like regular athletic tape that restricts motion to support an unstable joint. Kinesiotape allows the joints to move and actually assists in proper motion. It's made with a similar weight and stretch to skin. Wearing it is like having a breathable second skin on that you often don't even notice.

Learn more about this popular therapy below.

A Few of the Common Conditions That Can Benefit from Kinesiotape

Repetitive Sprains and Strains

Rehabilitation
Acute Pain due to Trauma
Chronic Pain Syndromes
Postural and Biomechanical Imbalances
Bruising, Edema and Swelling
Improving Athletic Performance
Arthritic Pain
Lower Back and Neck Pain
Shin Splints
Rotator Cuff Injuries
Plantar Fasciitis

6 Benefits of Kinesiotape

Improved feedback and muscle control increasing joint stability - by applying kinesiotape around an injured joint, movement signals to the brain increase, which helps the body improve control of the muscles & joint
Decreased pain - the same increased movement signals to the brain can help inhibit or overwhelm the pain signals
Improved circulation (reduced swelling and inflammation) - kinesiotape can help improve the flow of fluids from the tissues back into the circulatory system to reduce swelling and improve healing
Improved performance - by altering joint motion and muscle control
Prevention of further injury - while assisting proper motion, kinesiotape can help avoid motion that can contribute to further injury
Safe & effective - the only big contraindication is an allergy to acrylic because it is used in the glue. Otherwise, its safe to use.

The picture to the left shows a bruised leg after kinesiotape was removed. The clear stripes are where strips of kinesiotape were applied. Notice the contrast between these areas and the still bruised areas around the stripes.

What Do I Do With It?

Act like it's not there. Kinesiotape usually lasts 2-5 days. This depends on the person and the area taped. You can get the tape wet so go ahead and take a shower. Just pat it dry afterward.

Will Insurance Cover It?

Some insurance plans cover the application of kinesiotape to heal an injured area.