The Kinesio Taping Method was developed nearly 25 years ago in Japan. It has since become the gold standard for therapeutic rehabilitative taping. This method of taping uses a uniquely designed and patented tape for treatment of muscular disorders and lymphedema reduction.
Kinesio Taping involves taping over and around muscles in order to assist and give support or to prevent over-contraction. The first technique gives the practitioner the opportunity to actually give support while maintaining full range of motion, enabling the individual to participate in physical activity with functional assistance. The second technique helps prevent overuse or over-contraction and helps provide facilitation of lymph flow 24 hours per day. It is most commonly used in the acute stage of rehabilitation. Correctional techniques include mechanical, lymphatic, ligament / tendon, fascia, space, and functional. Kinesio Tex Tape can be used in conjunction with other therapies, including cryotherapy, hydrotherapy, massage therapy, and electrical stimulation.
Kinesio Taping affects the activation of neurological and circulatory systems. Muscles are not only attributed to the movements of the body but also control the circulation of venous and lymph flows, body temperature, etc. Therefore, the failure of the muscles to function properly induces various kinds of symptoms. Consequently, so much attention was given to the importance of muscle function that the idea of treating the muscles in order to activate the body’s own healing process came about. Using an elastic tape, it was discovered that muscles and other tissues could be helped by outside assistance. Employment of Kinesio Taping creates a totally new approach to treating soft tissues.
The method and tape allow the individual to receive the therapeutic benefits 24 hours per day because it can be worn for several days per application. Currently, Kinesio Taping is used in hospitals, clinics, universities, high schools, and by professional sports teams.