During the summer Olympics a couple years ago, we all gawked at the multi-colored tape some athletes were wearing, and wondered “What the heck is that for?” In October of 2015 I took part in an online introduction class to Kinesio Tape, short for Kinesiology, and learned a little about this interesting healthcare modality. I furthered my education in Sept. 2016 with a full day hands-on class in Kalispell, studying the newest research and of course learning how to apply tape for specific outcomes, like resolving a large bruise, pain relief, swelling / edema, and scars.
Kinesio Tape was developed by a Japanese chiropractor named Dr. Kenzo Kase in 1973. The color of the tape really doesn’t mean anything, it’s a light elastic cotton blend, water resistant (a waterproof style is available) and can be worn for about 5 days. I had my own experience with it a couple years ago when I fell on the ice in my driveway. If you know a little about my personal life, you understand I often crash during sports, and have quite the assortment of scars to my credit. I had a local chiropractor apply a tape set to my ribs on one side. The sets, or packages of tape can be purchased at local sporting goods stores in rolls, or pre-cut for specific body parts, like knees, shoulders, etc.
I discovered the main purpose of the tape is not support, or to restrict muscle or joint movement, but actually to reduce inflammation, edema, or swelling, and assist in lymphatic drainage. Kinesio tape does this by lifting the skin away from what’s underneath: muscles, tendons, ligaments, etc. For the practitioner applying the tape, it falls into 4 categories: lymphatic, pain, joint, or muscle application. The tension of the tape, and whether or not the tissue below it is stretched before application is very important. Also, whether the kinesio tape needs to have a “lift” or “recoil” effect must be considered before it is applied. Which direction would you want the tape to recoil? These are all reasons why a solid knowledge of anatomy and physiology is very helpful to a successful outcome. I’m excited to begin offering this service in November, 2016, at my massage therapy office in Kalispell in addition to current services. If you’re planning to come in for a taping session, it’s wise to prepare by having the area to be taped clean, dry, free from lotion, and shaved if applicable. For more information see the above link to my website, or call 406-871-9885. I wasn’t great with the tape and scissors during 5th grade art class, but I think I’m gonna be awesome with them regarding healthcare!
