Developed in Japan in the 1970s, Kinesiology taping (KTape) has now become a common sight at all major sporting events and is gaining popularity amongst non-elite athletes and the general public. It is commonly used to support joints and muscles when athletes are returning from injury or need some added reassurance to compete in an important event.
Traditional athletic strapping has very little stretch and although it can support and protect muscles and joints, it can also restrict range of movement. KTape is highly elastic and can provide support as well as allowing normal movement patterns. This is particularly important to clients who wish to continue with training or need to perform re-habilitation exercises.
KTape is suitable for almost everybody, latex free and water proof. It is usually kept on the body for 3-5 days to provide round the clock relief. It is commonly used to:
1. Provide support for weak or injured muscles,
2. Improve blood flow to speed up healing,
3. Offload overused muscles,
4. Improve lymph flow to reduce swelling and bruising
5. Inhibit muscles that are tight or fatigued allowing them to relax
Taping of any sort will only treat the symptoms of the problem, not the cause so I use it in conjunction with my hands – on therapies (Massage, Soft Tissue Release, Muscle Energy Techniques) to ensure that my clients can remain active and reduce their pain while seeking a solution to the main cause of their problem.