Kinesiology Taping

What is kinesiology taping?

Kinesiology taping, otherwise known as KT Tape, is a technique in which a skilled provider applies a semi-stretchy adhesive tape to an injured area to help alleviate pain and support an injured tissue.

 

How is kinesiology taping done?

A skilled provider will select a specific taping technique for your injured area.

The taping technique can be used to either help improve a muscle’s ability to contract or to cue a muscle to relax.

There are also specific taping patterns that can be used to reduce swelling and help flush out inflammation.

The tension of the kinesiology tape can be adjusted to help your specific tissue needs.

The kinesiology tape can last for several days and can be re-applied as many times as needed.

 

What is the aim of kinesiology taping?

The aim of kinesiology taping is to reduce pain and either help a muscle contract or relax in an area to help improve your overall function. 

In some cases, the providers wants to encourage a muscle that is not contracting to start engaging to help support a joint.

In other cases, the provider is aiming to reduce muscular spasm or bracing by using the tape to cue the muscle to relax.

The kinesiology tape may also be used a technique for helping to reduce or manage swelling in an area.

 

Benefits of kinesiology taping

• Reduced pain
• Improved joint support
• Reduced muscular bracing
• Enhanced muscular engagement in sport
• Improved motor control
• Reduced swelling and inflammation
• Improved postural support and awareness