What is Kinesiology Taping? - The Mobile Osteo

Kinesiology Taping

Kinesiology taping has been used since its inception by Dr Kenzo Kase, a Japanese chiropractor, in the late 1970s.

In recent years kinesiology taping has become popularised by professional athletes, who can be seen wearing all manner of colours and taping patterns across various body parts.

Kinesiology tape is used to provide joint support, lessen pain, reduce swelling, and improve performance. The research is mixed in effectiveness; however, it can be part of an overall patient treatment plan.

There are also one or two musculoskeletal conditions that kinesiology taping may help patients manage, such as knee osteoarthritis Lu et al, (2018).

How does kinesiology tape work?

Kinesiology tape is made from a stretchy fabric, a blend of cotton and nylon. Its elasticity is designed to mimic the skin whilst allowing a joint to move through a full range of motion.

The tape is water-resistant, so you can still shower and get sweaty. And strong enough that it will stay on for three to five days.

When applied, the tape recoils slightly, gently lifting the skin. It’s thought this helps to create a tiny space between the skin and underlying tissues.

In a meta-analysis of five randomised controlled studies involving 308 patients, Lu et al, (2018) concluded that kinesiology taping effectively reduced pain and improved joint function in knee osteoarthritis patients.

Kinesiology taping may be used as part of osteopathic or standalone treatment.

Standalone treatments would be to replace any taping patients cannot replace themselves. The price of this service would be based on the time involved.

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