What It Is
Kinesiology Taping is the application of elastic adhesive tape that helps eliminate pain and aid in proper function. There are several brands of tape, including Rocktape, KT tape, and Kinesio, to name a few. Extensive research is currently being conducted to identify how these taping techniques are having impactful and successful clinical results. To date, the best scientific explanation is centered on neurology.
There are several different types of sensory fibers in our body which travel at different speeds. When pain fibers are stimulated, a signal travels to the brain at a specific speed. The sensory fibers stimulated from the tape travel at a greater velocity to the brain than the pain fibers. As a result, the sensory fibers block the sensation of pain.
Taping allows for normal muscle and joint movement, while providing support and pain reduction. It does not hinder joint motion like traditional athletic tape (white tape) will.
Who It’s For
Taping can be done for any individual with dysfunction or pain, or used to assist high-performing athletes in heightening their performance. Conditions such as low back pain, knee pain, shin splints, tennis elbow, shoulder pain, and plantar fasciitis are a few of the many that can be treated with taping techniques.