Kinesio® Taping first gained wide public attention in the United States when it was used by several athletes in the 2008 Olympics, such as U.S. women’s beach volleyball star, Kerri Walsh.
The Kinesio® Taping Method has become extremely popular in the sports injury treatment field. This method was intially developed by Dr. Kenzo Kase over 25 years ago in Japan. Kinesio® Taping has now become the gold standard for therapeutic and rehabilitative taping. This proprietary method of taping uses a specially designed and patented tape material with some unique properties.
The Kinesio® Taping Method involves taping over and around muscles in order to assist and give support or to prevent over-contraction of muscles. The first technique allows the tape to give support while still maintaining full range of motion. This enables the individual to participate in his/her normal physical activities with stabilization and protection from the tape.
The second technique, which is most commonly used in the acute stage of rehabilitation, helps prevent overuse or over-contraction and improves circulation and lymphatic drainage from the tissue for up to 24 hours at a time to facilitate healing. Kinesio® Tex Tape can be used in conjunction with other therapies, including cryotherapy, hydrotherapy, massage therapy and electrical stimulation.
Kinesio® Taping also effects the activation of the neurological and the circulatory systems. Muscles not only produce the movements of the body, they also produce a “pumping effect” that enhances the circulation of blood and lymph through the tissues. Therefore, the failure of the muscles to function properly induces a variety of symptoms. Using Kinesio® Tex Tape, it was discovered that muscles and other tissues could be helped by outside assistance.
Since the introduction of Kinesio® Taping in the United States, medical practitioners such as PTs, ATCs, OTs, DCs, MTs and MDs have recognized and embraced this effective, safe and best of all, easy-to-use modality. The method and tape allow the individual to receive the therapeutic benefits 24 hours a day with both comfort and ease because it can be worn for several days per application. Currently, Kinesio® Taping is used in hospitals, clinics, high schools and by even by professional sports teams.
