Kinesio Tape.

Kinesio Tape, also called Kinesio Tex Tape, is the original elastic adhesive tape developed by Dr. Kenzo Kase in 1979. It is latex-free, hypoallergenic and wearable for days at a time. Additionally, it can be used in athletes, pediatric patients, among other necessary cases.

    This tape alleviates discomfort and facilitates lymphatic drainage by microscopically lifting the skin. Kinesio Tape has the ability to re-educate the neuromuscular system, reduce inflammation, prevent injury and promote good circulation, and assist in returning the body to homeostasis. With the utilization of single “I” strips or modifications in the shape of an “X”, “Y” or other specialized shapes as well as the direction and amount of stretch placed on the tape at time of application, however; we need to remember that the findings of the clinical evaluation or assessment dictate the specifics of the Kinesio Tape application and other possible treatments or modalities.

    One of the many benefits of kinesiology tape is to provide structural support for weak or injured muscles or joints. While it is not recommended for severe injuries because of its elasticity, it can be used effectively to prevent potentially harmful ranges of motion and to improve static or dynamic postures; for this reason is common see it on athletes who are in competition.

    The key in the treatment of any clinical condition are the evaluation and assessment, this assessment should include manual muscle testing, range of motion testing, gait assessment, and any other orthopedic special tests that you deem necessary. It can be used in conjunction with a multitude of other treatments and modalities within your clinic and is effective during the rehabilitative and chronic phases on an injury as well as being used for preventative measures.

The specialist can applied the Kinesio Tape with 3 steps::

•     Step 1: Preload the muscles by placing the affected area into a position of maximal stretch. Take your time; once, the maximal stretch has been achieved, this position should be held throughout the taping.
•     Step 2: Apply one or more “decompression” strips directly over the most painful areas.
• Step 3: Apply “stabilization” strips around the perimeter of the affected area. This is a good place to use Y-strips.

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