Kinesiotape
What is Kinesiotape?
Kinesio taping is a rehabilitative method and in order to be used properly should be applied by a trained professional with appropriate knowledge of anatomy and muscle fibres. Since it’s a technique, the amount of pull, the direction of the tape and even the length of tape is customized to specific physical therapy goals. What’s cool about the tape is that it’s not restrictive, so it provides support without inhibiting range of motion.
We have already seen that this neuromuscular bandage can relieve the pain of an injury and that they are suitable for training with them. But what are its main advantages?
It improves muscle action and circulation, favouring body movement.
It has an anti-inflammatory effect that accelerates drainage and improves the recovery of injuries.
Kinesiotape is very quick to put on and take off. In addition, it usually falls after three or four days, when it is no longer effective.
It is waterproof, so we can lead a normal life when we wear it.
It allows to continue doing all kinds of sports while we are wearing it.
This tape is an aesthetic bandage with a great variety of colours. Some say that the tones of Kinesiotape have certain healing properties, but in reality they are not more than cosmetic alternatives.
In a nutshell, the technique involves applying tape directly over an injured area, including its perimeter. In most cases, the muscles should be held in a stretched position while the tape is applied. Unless the goal is to provide structural support, the tape itself does not usually require additional stretching as it is applied. The natural elasticity of the tape creates a gentle lifting action of the skin, which activates both neurological and circulatory healing mechanisms. Also reducing pressure on pain receptors can rapidly relieve acute pain, while improving blood flow and lymphatic drainage which will reduce swelling and facilitate healing.
But perhaps the thing that rocks most about Kinesio tape is that while patients wear the tape, they are reminded to move in healthier ways to improve posture and prevent injuries. This reminder is incredibly important when trying to retrain patients to move in ways that sustain health and wellness.