Kinesiology taping, also known as K-taping, is a therapeutic tool that physiotherapists use for the prevention and treatment of sporting injuries and a variety of other conditions. You may have even recently seen K-tape on Olympic athletes competing in Tokyo!
How does K-tape work?
K-tape is a therapeutic technique which helps with pain management and facilitates lymphatic drainage by microscopically lifting the skin. Studies are still researching the mechanism of taping and how we can use it to aid in recovery from injuries such as sprains, muscle strains, subluxations and tendonitis.
Pink, blue, beige, red or black, which one is good?
K-tape comes in a lot of different colours. In reality, there is no physical or chemical difference between the different colours. Black and beige were the basic colors to start and then came all the fancy colours to make it look nicer.
What are the benefits of Kinesiology taping?
The physical benefits of K-tape include the following:
- Pain relief
- Reduces inflammation and swelling
- Accelerates recovery from bruises and contusions
- Prevents or relieves muscle spasms and cramping
- Speedier recovery of overused muscles
- Supports injured muscles and joints without restricting the range of motion
- Allows athletes to remain active while injured
- Enhances strength and muscle tone in weak or poorly-toned muscles
Contraindications and precautions
There are a few conditions that are contraindicated or not appropriate to use K-tape and others we have to use caution with. It is important that you talk to your physiotherapist if you have any of the following conditions so that they can use K-tape accordingly.
Here is the list of contraindications and precautions;
- Contraindications: Malignancy, infection, open wound, and deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
- Precautions: Diabetes, congestive heart failure and fracture.
Why is K-tape different from other tapes?
K-tape has an adhesive pattern similar to a bandaid, which allows the skin to breathe. The tape can be worn while swimming or showering. It stays on for up to 5 days on average, even with intense exercise, showering, bathing or even swimming. Also, the therapeutic benefits accumulate for the entire time the tape is worn. This characteristic does not apply to other tapes.
K-tape has a similar elasticity and thickness to human skin. It can stretch and move with the body which does not restrict the movement at all times. Usually, when a muscle or a joint is injured, moving it freely helps it heal quicker than if it’s immobilized. This makes the individual feel more safe and comfortable.
K-tape also has a great advantage in different colours and patterns. Patients can choose which colour they prefer to suit their style.
Would you benefit from K-taping?
If you are interested to know more about K-taping, speak to one of our physiotherapists. Most people seeking services at CURAVITA can see a physiotherapist for a consultation and assessment on the same day or the day after. Book online or call us to book an assessment with one of our physiotherapists at our Glebe clinic (613-237-9000)or our Byward clinic (613-860-8600).
