Kinesiology tape, when utilized properly and in conjunction with chiropractic care can hold and support your treatments up to five days.
What is the kinesiology tape
Kinesiology tape was designed and created by Japanese Chiropractor and Acupuncturist Kenzo Kase in 1979 and has been utilized for decades by chiropractors and acupuncturists around the world to treat injuries and improve performance. The surge in popularity in the United States happen during the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympics when spectators noticed athletes wearing a unique black tape over their shoulders, knees, legs and stomach region.
Kinesiology tape is a latex free, hypo-allergenic therapeutic tape which can stretch up to 150% of resting length applied with acrylic adhesive in a wave pattern. The tape design will allow moisture, water and sweat to dissipate though the tape pores allowing quick drying time. The therapeutic tape is comfortable and easy to wear with most applications worn up to five days.
How it kinesiology tape different than other tape
Unlike traditional athletic tape or medical tape that is non-elastic and restrictive, kinesiology tape, also known as physio tape or K tape, is light, thin and flexible. Rather than being wrapped tightly around joints, kinesiology tape is applied directly over or around the borders of muscles and joints. This allows it to provide support to an injured area while still permitting full range of motion.
How does it work
Best known as a sports tape for injured athletes, it is also used extensively in healthcare settings to treat a wide variety of affects, conditions and can support a speedy recovery after surgery.
The analgesic effects of kinesiology tape decreases inflammation and the pressures on the mechanoreceptors increasing the movement of fluid resulting in a reduction of pain and swelling.
The lymphatic system is affected by this creating a small but effective subcutaneous spacing allowing the efficient exchange of lymph and bodily fluids between tissues and parts of body improve overall health.
Kinesiology tape is utilized as preventative and as muscle correction to relieve pain, increase range of motion, assist with tissue recovery and reduction of muscle fatigue. Based on pattern applications muscles can be stimulated to relax over contraction (inhibit facilitation) or improve muscle contraction of weaken muscles (facilitation). In some cases, the therapeutic tape can break down scarring and adhesions reducing the muscle irritation.
Who can benefit from kinesiology tape
There are minimal contraindications and precautions of this therapeutic tape technique. Therefore, kinesiology tape is safe for all ages, pediatric to geriatric population, athletic weekend warrior to the common person suffering from pain symptoms and inflammation. Even pregnant women can benefit from this therapeutic tape by supporting the stomach and low back strains.
I’ve had a thriving Denver Chiropractic Practice for several years…And I’d be happy to help you reach your healthcare and wellness goals or answer any questions you have about kinesiology tape. Call me at (303) 539-9362, schedule online or sent an email to info@m3chiropractic.com.
Michael E. Roccaforte, DC
M3 Chiropractic & Wellness
Telephone: (303) 539-9362
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