Kinesiology Taping
What is kinesiology tape?
Kinesiology tape is an elastic cotton tape with an hypoallergenic, acrylic adhesive layer. It has been designed to mimic the skin in terms of elasticity and thickness. The kinetic tape is made of high quality materials, adheres to the skin for 3 to 7 days and is water resistant.
How does kinesiology taping work?
Prior to applying kinesiology tape the muscles and joints are positioned in a stretched position, and then the tape is affixed to the skin, allowing a full range of motion. When the body comes back into a relaxed position, the tape lifts the skin slightly. Beneath the tape small corrugations can be seen called ‘convolutions’.
Convolutions create space between the epidermis and dermis (Interstitial space) where many kinds of receptors, nerves, blood and lymph vessels are located. In the upper layer of the skin (the superficial fascia) 85% of the pain sensors are located. By taping this way the pain dampening or analgesic effect is activated. Pain is alleviated or disappears completely allowing the patient to move more freely restoring normal muscle function. Results are immediately noticeable during this form of treatment by the therapist.
Taping after Injuries for Support and Pain
Kinesiology Taping for knee osteoarthritis, instability and strained or torn knee ligaments
Wear in the knee is one of the most common forms of osteoarthritis. The knee is a complicated joint that exerts a lot of strength. In osteoarthritis, the cartilage is affected so that the bones do not slide smoothly and pain-free over each other.
Wear normally develops gradually from a certain age, however, cartilage damage can also be caused by a fracture, knee ligament damage or a tear in the meniscus.
This taping application is recommended in the above knee problems.
Taping for Inflammation and Swelling
Knee taping for inflammation of the synovial capsule and fluid in the knee (Synovial Plica Syndrome)
A plica is a fold in the joint capsule that can become irritated and inflamed in certain activities. The pain is noticeable on the inside of the knee and increases during bending and stretching. Fluid in the knee (also knee effusion or water on the knee) is a common knee complaint and is a symptom for various knee problems.
Within the Medical Taping Concept there is a taping application that can be used for
swelling of the knee or for inflammation of the plica.
Taping for Scar Tissue
Fibrotic tissue, fresh scars, but also older and bonded scars can be treated well with medical taping. The kinesiology tape can accelerate the scar healing and also ensures smoother skin.
Scar tissue taping can also be combined with other taping methods for support of a joint or muscle.
Lymph Taping
Lymph tape is a great complementary treatment to Manual Lymph Drainage and can support and improve the result of the treatment overall. Also, it can be an alternative if compression garments can’t be tolerated.
The taped area will form convolutions to increase the space between the skin and muscles. Once the skin is lifted, the flow of blood and lymphatic fluid is promoted.
From my own experience…
I am using CureTape® kinesiotape, a product that convinced me from the beginning because my clients tolerate it on the skin until it comes off by itself, even up to 2 weeks. It is easy to take off and also easy to apply for those who feel confident to use it at home. I haven’t seen any skin irritation, not even complaints about an uncomfortable feeling. The general response of my customers is very positive, they feel the support of the tape for muscles and joints and the release of tension and pain.
Effectiveness of CureTape® kinesiotape
High product quality
No additional medications used in manufacture
Elastic cotton tape with a stretchability of 130 to 140% (attributes similar to the human skin)
Air and water permeable but resistant to water (showering, swimming)
100% hypoallergenic acrylic adhesive layer, arranged according to a wave pattern and activated under the influence of body heat
CureTape® can adheres for several days
Taping is active treating patients 24 hours a day
