Tools for fitness • Knowledge for health
Kinesio Taping - Common Questions
OPTP Insider Newsletter April 2008
How does Kinesio taping differ from
traditional athletic taping?
Conventional athletic taping is designed to
restrict the movement of the affected muscles
and joints. For this purpose, several layers of
tape must be rolled around and/or over the
afflicted area, applying significant pressure,
resulting in the obstruction of the flow of
bodily fluids, and undesirable side-effect.
This is also the reason
athletic tape is typically
applied immediately
prior to the sports
activity and removed
immediately after the
activity is finished.
Since Kinesio tape is
designed with the fluid
movement of the fascia in mind and facilitates,
rather than restricts normal biomechanics, it
will not interfere with activities. Kinesio tape
works by activating neurological, circulatory
and lymphatic networks to stimulate a return
to homeostatic balance, relieving pain and
swelling and restoring normal musculoskeletal
function.
What are some characteristics of Kinesio
Tape that make it unique?
The thickness, weight and elasticity of Kinesio
tape is approximately that of skin. Kinesio
tape is made of 100% cotton and stretches
similar to how skin moves. It is this property
that allows Kinesio tape to work with the soft
tissue of the body versus restricting it. Kinesio
tape is a good modality for the treatment of
lymphoedema and chronic swelling and can
be used to assist in the positioning of muscle,
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fascia tissue, or joint to stimulate a sensation
which results in the body’s adaptation to the
stimulus. Functional support can be maintained
without losing active range of motion or
inhibiting circulation.
How can Kinesio taping help with
Lymphoedema?
The lymphatic correction technique is used
to assist in the removal of edema by directing
fluid away from a congested lymph node.
This is accomplished by the lifting effect
and elasticity of Kinesio tape. The lifting of
superficial skin decreases pressure and opens
initial lymphatics, while the tape creates a
massaging action during active motion. The
effect of Kinesio taping on muscle improves the
efficiency of the deeper lymphatics by allowing
maximum contraction and relaxation of a
muscle.
How long can you wear Kinesio tape?
Kinesio tape can be left on for 3-5 days. The
thickness of the Kinesio tape is approximately
the same as the epidermis layer of the skin.
This was intended to limit the body’s perception
of weight and avoid sensory stimuli when
properly aided. After approximately 10 minutes,
the patient will generally not perceive there is
tape on their skin which makes it comfortable
to wear for days at a time.
Are there different types of Kinesio Tape? Acupressure Taping
There are a few different types of Kinesio Tex Based on the Kinesio Taping Method, the authors
tape. OPTP carries the Kinesio Tex Gold of Acupressure Taping draw on their knowledge of
Original Wave Pattern tape. Future stock of traditional Chinese medicine,
Kinesio Tex Gold will be water resistant. This acupuncture and osteopathy
and take it a step further. The
tape is available in four different colors; Beige,
self-help taping protocols
Black, Blue and Red, but there is no physical or presented are designed to
chemical difference between the colors. stimulate acupuncture points
by combining principles of
How can I learn more about Kinesio taping? acupressure and massage-
In the OPTP catalog, you will find a variety of for improved healing and pain
Kinesio taping resources from general to specific relief. Those who suffer from
Kinesio taping methods which are listed below. chronic pain conditions such
as low back pain, tennis elbow, menstrual pain or
tension headaches will find welcomed relief without
side effects! It is illustrated, soft cover and 122
Kinesio Taping for Lymphoedema
With the introduction of pages. Item #8644
our unique lymphoedema
techniques, Kinesio
Taping now offers Clinical Therapeutic Applications of the
an effective modality Kinesio Taping Method
to compliment other This text is an essential clinical guide demonstrating
lymphoedema the Kinesio Taping Method. Over fifty clinical
treatments. This taping conditions are covered including patellofemoral,
resource demonstrates, myofascial, and
step-by-step instruction osteoarthritis.
of over 108 common Methods such
and not-so-common as mechanical
applications associated correction, fascia
with lymphoedema, chronic swelling and scar correction,
management. This book is spiral bound and 172 functional
pages. Item #8191 correction,
lymphatic
correction,
Kinesio Taping in Pediatrics, Fundamentals and ligament
and Whole Body Taping correction are explained thoroughly with excellent
Written in a user-friendly photo imagery. It is soft cover and 198 pages. Item
style, this full-color manual #8190-2
is a must have for pediatric
therapists using the Kinesio
Taping Method. The intent
of the book is to help you
Copyright © 2008, OPTP
build the foundation of
skills needed for effective
taping and improved patient All products mentioned in this newsletter can be
outcomes. The covered KT purchased from OPTP. Shop online at www.optp.com
applications are those that or talk to one of our knowledgeable customer service
affect children from infant to adolescent. Item #8189 representatives Monday-Friday from 8AM-5PM CST.
Call us today at 1-800-367-7393, and we’ll be happy to
assist you with all your health and fitness needs.

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