What is Kinesio Tape, and What Does it Do?
If you have seen an athlete wearing brightly colored tape in odd patterns, you are already familiar with Kinesio Tape. According to popular belief, Kinesio Tape offers support and stability to your joints without affecting range of motion or cutting off circulation.
Read below to learn more about kinesio tape, how it works, and what it is used for…
What is Kinesio Tape?
Kinesio Tape is a hypoallergenic, latex-free tape that can be worn for several days at a time. The tape is made from 100% elastic fibers that only stretch on the longitudinal axis. If you look at Kinesio Tape up close, you will notice a wave-like pattern. This is designed to mimic human fingerprints and allow the tape to “breathe”. Kinesio Tape can be applied at different tension levels to provide more or less stability.
How does Kinesio Tape work?
Kinesio Tape essentially works by lifting the skin at a microscopic level. This lifting affect forms convolutions on the skin, and creates a small space between your muscle and dermis layers. This allows for increased circulation, reduced inflammation, and the flow of lymphatic fluid in and out of the target area. The tape can be applied in one singular strip, or hundreds of different pattern combinations; it all depends on your goal.
What is Kinesio Tape used for?
Kinesio Tape can be used for nearly anything you can imagine. Some of the most popular uses for the tape include:
- Rehab
- Structural Alignment
- Pain Relief
- Injury Prevention
- Posture Correction
- Athletic Competitions
Is Kinesio Tape effective?
So, is Kinesio Tape really a big help, or just a big hype? Truth is, the jury is still out. Skeptics will point to a lack of scientific evidence, yet millions of users swear by it. Our best advice is to try it out for yourself.
If Kinesio Tape isn’t the answer to your bone and joint pain, seek help from a professional orthopedist. Orthopaedic Specialty Group is the largest and most experienced orthopedic practice in southern Connecticut. Our expert team of doctors can fix virtually every bone and joint in your body. Schedule an appointment online, or call us at (203) 337-2600.