The kinesio taping technique was developed by Dr. Kenzo Kase in 1973. While standard taping applications support joint and muscle structures, they cause limitations in joint movements and functional activities. Additionally, these taping methods sometimes slow down the healing of injured tissue through the compressive effect they have on the tissue they are applied to, and they do not provide support to deep tissues such as fascia. The philosophy behind the emergence of this method is that more successful results can be achieved with a taping method similar to the structural properties and elasticity of human skin without limiting joint movements. Dr. Kase designed Kinesio tape, which helps tissue healing while not limiting joint range of motion, contrary to these listed effects of conventional tapes, and began applying the methods he developed in different body regions.
According to Kase, functional disorders of muscles are at the forefront of musculoskeletal system problems. Dr. Kase argues that taping the muscle is more effective than immobilizing the joint by taping around it. If a muscle has to work for too long with overuse or is loaded beyond its capacity, small or large injuries occur in the muscle tissue. As a result, an inflammatory condition occurs; painful and inflamed muscles swell due to edema, narrowing the area in the region where they are located, obstructing lymphatic flow, and also stimulating nerve endings under the skin that create the sensation of pain, causing “pain and discomfort” in the person.
When kinesiology tape is applied, it lifts the skin and increases the space between the skin and muscles, relieving the pressure created by injury in the area. The reduction of pressure in the injured area both increases circulation and movement, reducing inflammation in that area, and also prevents the stimulation of pain receptors by freeing the nerve endings under the skin, ultimately enabling pain-free movement.
Characteristics of Kinesiology Tapes
- Kinesiology tape is developed to reflect the properties of skin, and its thickness is similar to the epidermis layer of the skin, and its elasticity is similar to human skin elasticity.
- The tapes can generally maintain their elastic properties for 3-7 days.
- Its adhesive consists of wave-patterned acrylic similar to a fingerprint, contains no latex, and is activated by heat.
- Thanks to cotton fibers, body moisture evaporates and dries quickly, making it possible to shower, wash the application area, and swim while stuck on the skin.
- When the tape gets wet, excess water should be absorbed with a towel, not rubbed, and left to dry.
- Before application, the skin should be cleaned of oil and moisture and shaved if necessary.
- It takes 20-30 minutes for the tape to adhere; activities that cause sweating should be avoided during this time.
- Kinesiotaping can be used simultaneously with other physical therapy methods such as cold therapy and electrotherapy.
In Which Problems is Kinesiotaping Used?
- Mechanical problems causing neck-back-lower back pain
- Soft tissue trauma in the musculoskeletal system (tendinitis, bursitis, muscle strains)
- Sports injuries
- Joint instabilities
- Posture disorders
- Degenerative arthritis (osteoarthritis)
- Foot deformities (hallux valgus, hammer toe, heel spur…)
- Joint sprains and strains
- Muscle weakness due to immobility
- For protective purposes by supporting muscle-joint surrounding tissues before physical activity and sports activities
- Muscle strength deficiencies seen in neurological diseases
- Entrapment neuropathies such as carpal tunnel syndrome
- Lymphedema
The main purpose of the kinesiotaping technique is to provide pain-free movement and accelerate healing in this way. Kinesiotaping is applied by Orthopedics and Traumatology specialists and Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation specialists. We wish you healthy days.
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with qualified healthcare professionals for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions.