Kinesiology tape, often referred to by brand names such as Rocktape, KT tape, or Kinesio Tape, first burst onto the scene in the 2008 Olympics. Unlike white athletic tape, which has been in use for many decades to help stabilize unstable joints, kinesiology tape has a stretch property to it. And it’s also really colorful, which is pretty cool too!.
But what is kinesiology tape? Does it have medicine in it? How exactly does it work?
No, kinesiology tape is not medicated. And while peer reviewed evidence for it has been mixed at best, at Whole Life Chiropractic we see kinesiology tape serving three potential purposes:
The stretch component of kinesiology tape allows for it to create a bit of a lift effect on the skin, especially during movement. Once applied to the skin, the tape will attempt to rebound back to its resting length. This will inherently create a lift effect on the skin which is further amplified during movement. This can help reduce swelling and edema, which can certainly play a role in pain.
Kinesiology tape plays off of a powerful neurological phenomenon known as pain gate theory. This theory posits that touch, movement, and other tactile stimuli can inhibit the nervous system's perception of nociception (pain). This explains why we often resort to rubbing an area that hurts or shaking our hand back-and-forth when we stub a finger. As kinesiology tape sits on the skin, it sends inhibitory signals to the nervous system to reduce our brain’s perception of pain.
Kinesiology tape can also offer up cues to help reinforce postural and movement patterns that may help reduce pain levels. For instance, if it’s deemed that someone may have neck pain from constantly adopting a slouched posture, we can apply the kinesiology tape in such a way that every time that person slouches, the kinesiology tape tensions their skin and cues them to sit with a taller posture.
With the exception of periodic skin irritation, kinesiology tape is extremely safe and can be helpful during the early stages of rehabilitating an injury.
Do you feel like kinesiology tape might help you with your pain condition or injury? Click here to schedule a visit!
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