Kinesiology taping is an increasingly visible treatment used by physical therapists. In this treatment, elastic, often colorful tape known as “kinesiology tape” is placed in strategic positions along the body. The tape pulls on the administered areas away from one another, reducing friction and allowing for free range of motion in the targeted area. It also increases blood flow to that area, which helps to promote healing and shorten recovery time. Ultimately, it can be an effective way to ease pressure on the joints and alleviate pain.
Kinesiology taping is popular with athletes, fitness enthusiasts and pregnant women, although it’s also used to treat people recovering from injuries. Our physical therapists perform kinesiology taping at many of our partner clinics.
Conditions We Treat
Kinesiology taping can help to treat a range of conditions, including:
- Neck aches
- Back sprains and strains
- Shoulder injuries
- Tennis and golfer’s elbow
- Knee pain
- Plantar fasciitis
- Achilles tendinitis
- Turf toe
- Bunions
- Sports injuries
Additionally, kinesiology tape may also be used to support weak zones in the body, retrain muscles, and correct posture in the head and neck area.
Pregnant women can benefit from kinesiology taping, too, as it can help alleviate pain in the back, knees and abdominal muscles.
What to Expect During Treatment
Kinesiology tape is not the same as traditional wrapping tape; it’s designed to withstand body heat and to stay firmly adhered to the body throughout the day, even during intense activity. It’s moisture-proof as well, so you don’t have to worry about it peeling off when you sweat.
Your physical therapist will help you determine whether kinesiology taping is a good treatment option for your particular condition. If they decide to use this method, they will apply the tape to your skin and show you how to apply it in the future. The exact wrapping technique will differ based on your situation. Once it’s wrapped and you’ve learned the proper wrapping technique, your therapist will then schedule a follow-up appointment to check up on the progress of your treatment.
It’s important to note that while you can buy kinesiology tape at many sporting goods stores, we don’t recommend applying it to your own body until a physical therapist has instructed you on proper techniques. Misapplication can lead to complications and further pain.
If you want to learn more about kinesiology taping and to talk to a professional about whether it could be a good treatment for you, contact an Alliance physical therapy clinic near you today.