Kinesiotaping

Physiological Effects of Kinesio Taping

The Kinesio Taping technique and Kinesio Tex tape were developed by Dr. Kenzo Kase in Japan more than 25 yrs ago. In the 1970’s Dr. Kase began researching a technique which could assist in the healing of traumatised tissue and muscles. He found that standard taping techniques, such as athletic taping and strapping commonly used by physiotherapists, provided muscle and joint support, but reduced range of motion, and did not support the fascia. In some cases, it actually inhibited the healing process of traumatised tissue.

His research resulted in the development of Kinesio Tex tape, a light breathable tape which stretches and contracts to accommodate and facilitate movement. The tape also lifts the skin slightly during movement to assist lymphatic flow, reducing pain and swelling.

Whilst old fashioned taping techniques restrict normal movement and often require rest from sports training, the new kinesio taping techniques simply facilitate correct movement patterns and inhibit damaging movements, allowing you to continue training, despite the problem.

Kinesio taping first saw worldwide exposure during the 1988 Seoul Olympics. Since then, Kinesio has become a popular form of muscle taping used by many health professionals across the world, and is frequently used by professional sportsmen and women to aid their performance.

At the clinic Kinesio taping may be used as part of your normal physiotherapy, helping you to benefit further between treatment sessions. It can also be applied prior to sporting events to help prevent further injury.