What is Kinesio Taping?

Kinesio Taping is a stretchy, moveable tape.  It comes in different colors and stabilizes the injured area lightly by adhering to the skin and applying pressure to the tissues the tape is wrapped around.  This is very popular with Olympic athletes who use this tape to alleviate pain and improve blood flow!

• A patient asked which tape is the best one to use?

There are a couple different kinds of tapes.  You want elasticity and want it to stretch up to 140% normal length, be light, hypoallergenic, latex free, air permeable and durable. Kinesio Taping can last anywhere from 3-5 days per application depending on what you use it for. For our patients we like to use Rock tape. 

• Is there a difference between the colors?

There is no physical or chemical difference between the colors!  Tony prefers the black tape because he thinks it is stronger.  The lighter color tapes are good to use if you want minimal visibility.  Other colors you can match with your uniforms if you want! Color choice is a matter of individual preference.

• Is it the tape or the technique?

 It is all about the technique and how the tape is applied.  This will help alleviate pain and facilitate lymphatic drainage by lifting the skin.  This lifting technique forms convolutions in the skin increasing space and allowing for decreased inflammation in affected areas!

• How is the tape applied?

It is applied over the affected area, the muscles will be in a stretch position and then when the tape is applied.  You will stretch the tape and then apply it down to the skin.  It will be constricting a little or stretching out, but this all depends on how you apply it.  

​They sell Kinesio tape at stores like CVS that you can purchase and use at home.  It is important to make sure skin is dry, oil free, no lotion, and sweat free.  You should try to not get the tape wet for an hour after it is applied.  They say it's heat activated so you'll have a better adhesion if it is gently warmed up with a hairdryer- don't hold too close!  Natural movement of the body will generate enough heat to give it a good stick as well!  Mostly all tapes are water resistant.  Just read the back of the box to make sure yours is!  I believe they all offer water resistant tapes such as Kinesio, Kt and rock tape.

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