Many people who suffer from injuries seek the assistance of a physical therapist to get through their grievances. However, they often get a recommendation to use kinesiology therapeutic tape. This healing aid entails placing several strips of tape on the body, in particular directions to support the joints and improve mobility. Doctor Kenzo Kase is the creator of kinesiology tape. He discovered that this flexible tape harnesses the space between the skin and the muscles offering long-term effects. Some people call it sports or muscle tape. The following is more information about this treatment method that protects muscles and joints.
Kinesiology tape changes signals on pain pathways. Therefore, physical therapists believe it alters the information the sensory nervous system sends about compression and pain in the body. They say that kinesiology tape works by creating a lift that works in unloading underlying tissues. When it decompresses the tissues, it helps to alter the signals from going to the brain. The kinesiology tape lifts the skin over tense muscles. When the area gets suppressed, the pain receptors send a different indication to the brain. Therefore, it reduces tension at the trigger points.
People who use kinesiology tape state that it helps to improve the circulation of fluids and blood. Moreover, they believe that it helps lower swelling in a body part with an injury. Ultimately, physical therapists believe that the kinesiology tape becomes effective when used with other treatments such as manual therapy. Also, they indicate that it adds extra support to joints and muscles. People who have tendon issues support weak zones with the tape. Consequently, it will assist them to walk normally since kinesiology tape helps enhance endurance and movement.
Anyone with acute injuries uses it to retrain muscles and correct posture. People who participate in competitive sports apply kinesiology tape to attain peak performance and protection against injuries.
Physiotherapists advise people who are hurt to use the kinesiology tape on the following areas:
However, it can be applied in other areas if the doctor recommends it. Before applying the kinesiology tape, the user is encouraged to prepare the skin. The person with the injury should clean, dry, and remove any excess hair around the wound. Physiotherapists advise them to cut an appropriate length of the tape to avoid wastage. Moreover, whoever administers it should apply the anchor with the desired tension.
Experts advise the user to rub the tape to activate the adhesive part. The wearer needs to take proper care of it once they apply it. If the user ignores the correct application process, the wearer risks further injury and harm. Anyone with injuries should use the sports tape for three to four days. However, the wearer should inquire from their doctor about the duration of the application.
The tape sticks to the skin tightly. Therefore, users must take special care when they want to remove it. Experts recommend that the user should pour baby oil on it, wait for at least 15 minutes before they try to remove it. The application of soap and water also helps in easy removal.
Kinesiology tape works for most of the people that use it. However, experts still need to conduct some research into its effectiveness. Some successful users believe that injuries heal faster with kinesiology tape. However, others are skeptical about its success and disregard its purpose. Nonetheless, doctors say that it is vital to consult with them before using kinesiology tape as they will recommend how to use it and the type of treatment that should accompany it.
Athletic tape is water-resistant, so the wearer can use it even during intense activities that involve water. It exists in different colors that are insignificant to the function. Some users may be allergic to the original version. However, there are hypoallergenic versions that do not contain latex. The tape does not begin to work immediately. Therefore, the user should wait for at least 24 hours before it works.
