Kinesiology Taping- another tool in our toolbox to help with recovery.

What is K tape?

When watching a professional sport on the TV you’ve probably noticed colourful strips of tape across elbows, knees, thighs, shoulders… This is kinesiology tape, often called K tape and it’s become a widely used tool not just in professional sports but also in clinics such as ours.

K tape is an elastic stretchy tape made of cotton and glue that comes in many colours and styles. It was originally developed by a Japanese chiropractor in the 1970s to provide support without limiting mobility, today it has become commonly used by a range of manual therapists and rehabilitation settings.

How does it work and what are the benefits?

While it may look like is holding a joint in place, K tape actually works mostly through the nervous system rather than physically supporting structures. When the tape is applied to the skin it provides a continuous gentle sensory input. This stimulation activates touch-sensitive receptors, which can reduce the intensity of pain signals being sent to the brain.

The tape also helps to lift the skin slightly, straightening the fascia, reducing the pressure on the pain receptors, this slight lift can also improve lymphatic drainage which is handy for reducing swelling in the acute stages of an injury.

It also helps improve proprioception (your body’s awareness of position and movement), after an injury this awareness can become disorientated. The light tension from the tape acts as a reminder to the body, improving movement patterns and even posture.

One of the biggest advantages of K tape is that it improves the range of motion of the joint, which in turn increases confidence during movement, which can positively influence the recovery.

What does the research say?

The scientific evidence on K tape is evolving, so far, the literature suggests:

· It provides short term pain reduction.

· It can improve function, especially when combined with rehabilitation.

· It can help reduce swelling and support lymphatic drainage.

· it increases sensory feedback which can contribute to improved joint control, particularly during rehabilitation exercises.

A key takeaway from the research is that while K tape alone is great, it works best when used alongside other rehabilitation methods.

What to expect as a patient...

When a clinician applies K tape it will feel comfortable and light, you may notice a slight pulling sensation when moving. It shouldn’t feel tight or restrictive. After a few hour you will most likely forget that you are even wearing it.

K tape typically lasts 3-5 days, it is water resistant so you can shower as normal, however it doesn’t dry as quickly as your skin. Over time the edges may begin to peel, and the tape will be ready to be removed.

Final thoughts

K tape is a low-risk option that can provide short term pain relief, enhanced movement awareness. For many patients, the combination of symptom relief, improved confidence and range of motion makes K taping a valuable weapon in their recovery plan.

By Thomas Ferebee (Chiropractor).