In the 1970's a Japanese chiropractor, Dr Kenzo Kase developed a new style of sport taping which didn't restrict the range of motion, potentially inhibiting the healing process. The Kinesio Taping® technique became widely seen at the 1988 Seol Olympics. Now it is common to see athletes at all levels wearing kinesiogy tape. In rugby, the brighter the tape, the better!
In injuries or trauma, the body naturally switches on the inflammatory response. Pain, swelling, heat and redness increase in the area, inhibiting the range of motion. Blood vessels and underlying nerve endings become compressed irritating the pain receptors. When kinesiology tape is applied to the skin, it microscopically lifts the layers, increasing the space below to allow fluid movement and reduce the pressure on the pain receptors. Recovery and repair is accelerated as the blood flow to the injured area improves with the decompression effect.
As claimed by Kase et al (1996, 2003)
Kinesiology Tape can be applied in a number of ways and works differently for different injuries. It can be used for a range of conditions, sprains, strains and syndromes from Runner’s Knee to Posture Awareness.
Tennis Elbow
Golfer’s Elbow
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Tenosynovitis
Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy
Acromioclavicular Joint (ACJ) Sprain
Biceps Tendinopathy
Hamstring Fatigue / Pain
Hamstring Medial / Lateral Strain
Quadriceps / Adductor Strain
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
Patellar Tendinopathy
Osgood-Schlatter’s Disease
Iliotibial Band Friction Syndrome
Medial / Lateral Collateral Ligament Sprain
Medial / Lateral Meniscus Knee Pain
Compartment Syndrome
Shin Splints
Calf Strain
Achilles Tendinopathy
Ankle Sprain
Plantar Fasciitis
Gluteal and Piriformis Pain
Sacroiliac Joint ( SIJ) Dysfunction
Lower Back Pain
Mid-thoracic Pain
Cervical Pain / Strain
If kinesiology tape has been assessed as being beneficial and you now find yourself with strips stuck to your skin, there are a few pointers to maintain the benefits.
