Things You Should Know About Kinesio Taping In Short

Curious about people running around with colorful tapes on their skin? You might have just come across someone using Kinesio taping in Denver.

Kinesiology tapes are colorful adhesive strips that are applied to the body strategically for support.

They are widely used by athletes for performance and for chiropractic treatments. If you’re considering using them, then here’s what you need to know about them:

What Is Kinesio Taping?

The idea behind Kinesio taping is to support joints using tapes without restricting their movement.

What’s The Evidence?

It’s still under study, with many advocating for it and many doubting it. Many studies find minimal or moderate effectiveness and many consider it most effective when used with other treatments.

How Does Kinesio Taping Work?

Unlike athletic tapes, Kinesiology tapes aren’t wrapped around a body part. You just need to stick them to the skin.

The tape stretches along the length and mimics the skin’s texture. The strips are made of cotton or nylon for this purpose. A special adhesive is used below the strip.

When applied, the strip recoils slightly to gently raise the skin. This creates a microscopic gap between your skin and the tissues under it.

It can also create a minor gap between your joints and relieve irritation. Physicians believe that this lift decompresses the receptors located in the area, reducing pain felt here and increasing mobility.

The change in pressure under the skin might also improve circulation and reduce swelling.

Uses Of Kinesiology Taping

Kinesio tapes are among the many tools commonly used by practitioners of alternative medicine in Denver. Athletes also find it beneficial. Here are some of its common uses:

- Treat Injuries: Chiropractors often use Kinesio taping with other treatments to treat injuries. The tape helps relieve pain and swelling in patients.

- Supporting Weak Muscles And Joints: It supports weak joints and muscles without getting in the way of their natural movements.

- Re-educating Muscles: Kineosio taping can help you retrain muscles that have lost their functions or work awkwardly.

- Enhancing Performance: Athletes frequently use it to improve their performance and prevent injuries during events.

- Managing Scars: Some studies suggest that Kinesio taping can help improve the long-term appearance of scars.

When To Avoid

There are some situations in which Kinesiology taping could be more harmful than helpful. You should avoid it if you have the following conditions:

- Open Wounds

- Deep Vein Thrombosis

- Active Cancer

- Lymph Node Removal

- Diabetes

- Sensitivity To Adhesive

- Fragile Skin

If you notice skin irritation or damage, then don’t tape the area. Consult a specialist to treat the issue and alternative solutions.

Steps To Apply

A specialist usually applies the tape in X, Y, I or fan patterns depending on your needs. You may consult a physician for tips. Here are the general steps:

- Clean and dry the area to get rid of dirt, oil or lotions. You can also use alcohol for the purpose.

- Trim excess hair so that the tape can get a good grip.

- You may need to cut the tape into smaller sizes or round its corners.

- Tear and peel the backing paper from the center. Avoid touching the adhesive surface.

- Apply the sticky part to your skin and peel the backing paper as you apply the strip.

- Stretch the strip to the required length. Use the whole thumb when applying it to keep it even.

- Once done, rub the strip aggressively to activate the glue. It takes twenty minutes for full adhesion.

You may also need stabilization and decompression tapes with them. You should avoid layering the strips unless required.

Steps To Remove

The tape usually starts loosening up after several days. If you need to remove it, follow these steps:

- Apply some oil or lotion on top of the strip to loosen it.

- Do not yank or pull it up. Remove it gently.

- Nudge one end and press upon your skin to separate it from the strip.

- Pull the tape against itself rather than up away from you. Press your skin while you peel it back towards the other end.