Kinesio Taping is a rehabilitative taping technique designed to facilitate the body’s natural healing process while providing support and stability to muscles and joints without restricting the body’s range of motion. It can be used to decrease pain and inflammation, relax overused or tired muscles, and support muscles in unrestricted movement.
Benefits from Kinesio Taping
Kinesio Taping can be used as an adjunctive treatment for any patient with mechanical pain but works particularly well with overuse injuries. Any area of soft tissue (muscle or tendon) can be taped.
Latex-free and wearable for days at a time, Kinesio Taping is safe for populations ranging from pediatric to geriatric, and successfully treats a variety of orthopedic, neuromuscular, neurological, and other medical conditions.
At LeMoine Physical Therapy, therapists may use Kinesio Taping with the following conditions:
- Shin splints
- Tendonitis
- To reinforce posture
- Edema control (swelling)
- Muscle pain
What Is the Difference Between Kinesio Taping and Traditional Taping Methods
Many people are under the impression that Kinesio Taping is like all athletic tapes – pretty much the same and also fairly uncomfortable. But the majority of people who have been exposed to athletic tape are usually only familiar with the traditional tape used in McConnell taping methods. These types of taping methods use the traditional white athletic tape in order to reduce the chance of injury by restricting the patient’s mobility or allowing the patient to participate in an activity with an injury.
Kinesio Taping is very different than traditional taping. First of all, the “tape” is elastic and made with 100 percent cotton. The tape is also hypoallergenic and latex-free. The design of the tape is similar to our skin and that allows for full movement and barely any restriction compared to traditional tape.
The other difference between the two types of tape is that the traditional tape is only meant to be worn for a few hours and can only be used once. The tape cannot get wet and should not be applied directly to the skin. The tape used for Kinesio Taping is water-resistant and can be worn for up to five days in a row.
Who Can Use Kinesio Tape?
Because many professional athletes are seen wearing Kinesio Tape, many people think only athletes would benefit from the tape. However, approximately 85 percent of Kinesio Taping methods are specifically for non-athletes. Patients of all ages who need help with acute injuries, chronic injuries, joint support, alleviation of inflammation and pain, correction of posture, and more can obtain positive results with Kinesio Tape. Kinesio taping methods can also help with preventing injuries.
Can I Apply Kinesio Tape Myself?
Although the techniques used for Kinesio Taping may seem easy and there are even many online sites that advise people that they can apply the tape themselves, the truth is that application of the tape requires extensive knowledge of the physiology of the human body. If the tape is applied incorrectly, it will not be effective with the issues that the patient is having. There are even some applications that require the patient moves in certain ways as the tape is being applied or require a certain about of tension during the application that a person doing it themselves will likely have a very difficult time accomplishing.
Even more critical is the necessity of a diagnosis and treatment plan that needs to be developed by an experienced physical therapist in order to ensure the actual issue is being treated and being treated correctly.
How Kinesio Taping Is Revolutionizing Physical Therapy
One of the most impactful innovations in physical therapy in recent years has been Kinesio taping. Physical therapy has always been about improving the quality of life for those dealing with pain or injury. This technique has become a vital tool in our practice at LeMoine Physical Therapy, helping countless patients recover and maintain their mobility and strength.
Understanding Kinesio Taping
Kinesio taping involves applying a specially designed elastic tape to the skin in specific patterns. This tape, developed by Dr. Kenzo Kase in the 1970s, aims to provide support and stability to muscles and joints without restricting the body’s natural movement. The tape’s elasticity mimics human skin, allowing it to move and stretch comfortably with the body.
How It Works
The tape works by lifting the skin slightly, creating space between the skin and the muscles. This space helps to improve blood flow and lymphatic drainage, which can reduce swelling and inflammation. Additionally, the tape provides support to muscles and joints, aiding in the recovery process and preventing further injury.
Benefits Of Kinesio Taping In Physical Therapy
One of the primary benefits of Kinesio taping is its versatility. It can be used to address a wide range of conditions, from sports injuries to chronic pain. Patients with conditions such as tendonitis, sprains, and muscle strains often find relief through Kinesio taping. By providing targeted support, the tape can reduce pain and improve function, allowing patients to return to their daily activities more quickly.
Kinesio taping also plays a role in improving muscle function. For athletes, this can mean enhanced performance and reduced risk of injury. For those recovering from surgery or an injury, it can aid in the rehabilitation process, promoting faster healing and better outcomes. The tape’s ability to support muscles without restricting movement is particularly beneficial for those who need to maintain an active lifestyle while recovering.
The Application Process
Applying Kinesio tape requires a thorough understanding of anatomy and biomechanics. Our therapists are trained to assess each patient’s unique needs and apply the tape in a way that provides optimal support. The process involves cleaning the skin, cutting the tape to the appropriate length, and applying it in specific patterns. The tape can stay on for several days, providing continuous support and relief.
Integrating Kinesio Taping Into Your Treatment Plan
Kinesio taping is not a standalone treatment but rather an adjunct to other physical therapy modalities. It complements exercises, manual therapy, and other interventions, creating a comprehensive approach to rehabilitation. Our therapists will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that incorporates Kinesio taping where appropriate.
Join Us On The Path To Better Health
At LeMoine Physical Therapy, we are committed to providing the best possible care to our patients. Kinesio taping is just one of the many tools we use to help you achieve your health and wellness goals. If you’re dealing with pain or recovering from an injury, we invite you to explore the benefits of Kinesio taping with us.
Don’t let pain hold you back any longer. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step towards a healthier, more active life. Together, we can work towards achieving your best physical self.
Contact Our Clinic Today
If you have been injured, would like to prevent injury, or have other joint or muscle issues, contact LeMoine Physical Therapy to schedule a consultation with one of our dedicated physical therapists and find out if Kinesio Taping would be a good treatment option for you. Call our office today.
Client Review
“Today was my last day for my treatment on my left arm. The pain I was in from the torn rotator cuff has been releaved. The staff and Dr Lemoine were very pleasant. I would recommend them to my friends.”
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