Physical therapy: There is something called Kinesiotaping and its a...

Introduction

As a physical therapist, I know that the Kinesiotaping Method, is one of those therapeutic tools that's as versatile as a Swiss army knife at a camping trip. Whether you're a kid, a golden-ager, or something in between, this method's got your back (and your knees, and your elbows... you get the idea).

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A little history
Now Kinesiotapes which we use in Kinesiotaping have been around since uhm, you know, the '70s, courtesy of Dr. Kenzo Kase, you can call him the father of Kinesiotaping. Now back then, the idea was simple: use elastic tape to mimic a therapist's gentle touch. Fast forward to today, and it's a superstar in the world of pain management, soft tissue injuries, joint misalignment, and even taming pesky edema.

Heck, it's even treated our furry friends, thanks to Kinesio Equine and Kinesio Canine tapes!

What are the properties of Kinesio tape
what's this tape made of? Well, it's either 100% cotton mixed with elastic fibers or a blend of polyester and cotton with a dash of elasticity. Think of it as an efficient fabric that can stretch up to 120-140% of its original length and then bounces back like a champ. Oh, and it's got a heat-activated adhesive, hypoallergenic dyes (for the sensitive folks), and it's latex-free – because we don't want any tape allergies at the party. Plus, it dries faster than you can say "Kinesio Taping Method," so you won't be stuck waiting around.

Types of Kinesio Tex Tapes:

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If you thought there was only one type of tape, think again! There are four for us humans: Classic, Performance+, Gold, and Gold Light Touch Plus.

Classic is like the OG, good for just about anything. Performance+ is a bit of a loose cannon, perfect for sensitive skin and especially when you want to add some tension to the mix. Gold, well, it's as good as its name suggests, but only for the pros – it's like the VIP tape of the bunch.
And finally, Gold Light Touch Plus, it's the gentle giant, great for short-term stints and delicate skin.

But hold on, there's more! For our furry pals, there's** Kinesio Equine** for horses (yes, horses!), and Kinesio Canine for our canine companions. Because who wouldn't want to see a dog sporting some stylish tape?

Theory:

Now, let's dive into the science stuff. Kinesio Taping theory is all about playing tricks on our body's systems in simple terms:

Central Nervous System (CNS): Imagine tape on your skin sending signals to your brain – it's like a secret communication for your nerves!

Skin: Low-stretch tape changes the game in your skin, creating electric impulses and making cells do the electric slide (well, sort of). It can even help with pain, making you feel like a smooth criminal, but without the moonwalk.

Fascia: It's like giving your fascia a good stretch, like yoga for your insides, and it encourages balance and harmony.

Lymphatic and Circulatory System: The tape helps open microvalves, making it easier for your lymphatics to flow, thereby reducing swelling like a champ.

Basics of Application:

Now, how do you become a tape master? Well, there are some rules to follow, like:

Assess your patient like Sherlock Holmes, with Kinesio Taping tools, of course.
Respect contraindications and precautions – we don't want any tape-related mishaps.
Apply it on clean, dry skin – tape sticks better when it's not competing with lotion.
Say goodbye to body hair – it's time for a trim.
Follow the tension guidelines – no one wants a tape that's too tight or too loose.
Round those tape edges – because sharp corners aren't fun.
No touching the adhesive side after peeling the backing – it's like a super-sensitive secret.
Rub the tape to activate the heat-sensitive adhesive – it's like magic!
Keep your eye on the patient and make sure they don't sweat it out for 30 minutes.
If it starts itching or burning, or the pain goes wild, remove that tape ASAP.
Teach the patient how to part ways with the tape if needed.
And of course, informed consent and an info sheet for good measure – because knowledge is power.

Contraindications and Precautions:
Think of these as the red flags and yellow lights of Kinesio Taping. Malignancy, infections, open wounds, DVT, and tape allergies are a big no-no.
And if you've got diabetes, a heart condition, kidney trouble, organ transplants, or you're expecting a little bundle of joy, tape with care!

Types of Applications:

Now, if you thought you'd just slap on tape and call it a day, nope think again! There are all sorts of tape cuts, lengths, techniques, positions, and tensions to consider. It's like a puzzle for your muscles and joints!

Type of Application Stretch:

Stretch it out, but not too much! Depending on the tissue, you can go from ultra-light to full-on superhero stretch.

Ultra-light 0-5% (for epidermis)
Super light 5-10% (for dermis)
Paper-off 10-15% (superficial fascia)
Moderate 25-50% (deep fascia)
Severe 75% (for tendon)
Full 100% (for ligament)
Tape direction and Technique:
It's all about how you play the tape game. Glide, decompress, compress – it's like a spa day for your tissues. (more on this in subsequent post)

Clinical Implications:

Now, before you go taping yourself up like a mummy, know this: the evidence is a bit like your grandma's attic – full of mysteries. Some say Kinesio Taping can increase ROM, improve function, decrease swelling, and make pain say "ta-ta!" But it's not all sunshine and rainbows – it can be pricey and might tickle your skin the wrong way.

So, there you have it, folks! The Kinesio Taping Method – where tape meets science meets a whole lot of fun. Just remember, if in doubt, consult your friendly neighborhood physiotherapist. And who knows, you might just become a Kinesio Tape superhero yourself!

References

Credit

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Physical therapy: There is something called Kinesiotaping and its a Huge deal!!