Have you ever noticed athletes wearing colorful body tape? Although the pieces of tape may appear fashionable and they are often branded with the names of teams or sponsors, they are actually a therapeutic component of the athletes’ wardrobes. These athletes are practicing a proactive injury management technique called Kinesio taping. The procedure was developed in the 1970s by Japanese chiropractor Dr. Kase, and it involves strategically placing strips of specially formulated tape on the body to support muscles and joints. To better understand the benefits of Kinesio taping, please scroll down.
Benefits of Kinesio Taping
Increased Circulation
Doctors use Kinesio taping to treat and prevent injuries to muscles, soft tissues, and joints. While the use of athletic tape and bandages is nothing new in the sport industry, much of the success of Kinesio taping lies in its design and application.
Kinesio tape is constructed from materials that allow for extreme flexibility of movement. The lightweight, elastic tape acts like a second skin when applied to the body, and users adjust tension through various application methods. The tape slightly lifts the skin, which can increase the flow of blood and lymphatic fluids. Increased circulation to injured muscles helps them heal faster. Enabling the body to heal itself more efficiently is one of the key benefits of Kinesio taping. In fact, it explains why many physical therapists and chiropractors choose Kinesio tape to treat patients suffering from mobility issues.
Muscle Support
In the early years of the sport industry, a well-bandaged athlete indicated one who would not be able to participate at peak performance levels. Those bandages and athletic tapes were used to support injured muscles by stabilizing them and constraining their movement. Kinesio tape is different.
In addition to stabilizing damaged muscles, modern Kinesio taping methods support muscles for injury prevention and enhanced physical performance. Kinesio tape does not inhibit movement when applied properly. It acts as extra support to muscles that tend to get damaged due to overuse during a game, practice event, or training session.
Joint Support
You do not need to be an athlete to experience lower back pain; the issue can affect virtually anyone. Many instances of lower back pain are caused by issues with the sacroiliac (SI) joint. Joint support is one of the most important benefits of Kinesio taping. When Kinesio tape is applied properly, it supports the SI joint by slightly lifting the surrounding soft tissues, decreasing painful pressure around the problem area. Physical therapists use Kinesio taping as a part of integrated SI treatment methods that help to heal the SI joint and relieve pain without risky surgeries and addictive pain pills.
Pain Relief
Some people claim that Kinesio taping helps to relieve pain that is associated with sore, strained, or otherwise damaged muscles and ligaments. The science behind the claim is that the elastic tape stimulates skin receptors and blocks reception of pain signals to the brain. The action is similar to the pain relief that a person gets when they rub a sore toe after stubbing it on a dresser.
Convenient, Long-Lasting Support
Doctors prescribe Kinesio taping to support muscles, shore up joints, calm inflammation, and relieve pain. While the tape must be applied by a knowledgeable person, users can tape themselves in most cases. If you need to tape an area like the SI joint that is located on your back, then you will need the assistance of a doctor or a specially trained friend. Kinesio tape has a cottony surface and strong adhesive backing that allows it to be both breathable and long lasting. It remains intact and effective through repeated bouts of sweating and showering. Depending on the treated body part, Kinesio tape can remain viable up to five days.
Final Thoughts
To get the most out of Kinesio taping, you should get evaluated by a healthcare professional such as an orthopedist, chiropractor, or physical therapist. These doctors can show you how and where to apply Kinesio tape to achieve your wellness goals.
To learn more about the health benefits of Kinesio taping, please consult Loehr Chiropractic and Acupuncture today if you live in or near Springfield, Missouri. We can help you decide whether or not this form of complementary medicine has the potential to help you. Give give us a call today at 417-887-8075 or contact us online to schedule an appointment.
