By Joad Shaban
Kinesiology taping (KT) was developed by Dr. Kenzo Kase in the 1970’s. He discovered that lifting the skin away from the underlying tissues, improved range of motion and decreased pain in joints and muscles.
Kinesiology Tape, is a thin tape made of porous material based in cotton. It has the potential to stretch up to 120-140% of its resting length. The porous quality of KT allows air to pass through to the skin, limiting skin irritation and allowing the skin to sweat and move normally.
KT manufactures claim the tape helps improve athletes’ range of motion, functional performance, and increase strength.
How does KT work ?
Theory One: Lifting the skin from the underlying tissue increases blood circulation to the local soft tissues. This in turn releases muscular tension and hence a better range of motion is facilitated.
Theory Two: Sensory Feedback.
Application of KT on the skin stimulates the bodies proprioceptive receptors. These feed the brain information about the joints positioning and movement. This increased awareness helps to reduce the natural fear of painful movement.
Use of KT in Practise
- To help to support Joints and muscles,
- Local swelling reduction
- Local Pain reduction.
- Increased confidence to reinstate movement in injured areas.
KT has become increasingly popular, particularly since the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games. Increasing numbers of athletes and practitioners are using it every year.
KT is used in many areas of Osteopathy and physiotherapy, partially with musculo-skeletal, joint and ligament problems.
Original by Joad Shaban. Revised by Claire Howard-Robinson.