What is Kinesio Taping®

The Kinesio® Taping Method has taken the Rehabilitation and Sports Medicine
world by storm. This amazing taping method was developed by Dr. Kenzo
Kase over 25 years ago in Japan. Since then, Kinesio® Taping has become
the gold, or should we say "platinum," standard for therapeutic and
rehabilitative taping. This proprietary method of taping uses a
uniquely designed and patented tape for treatment of muscular disorders
and lymphedema reduction, among other things.

The Kinesio® Taping Method involves taping over and around muscles
in order to assist and give support or to prevent over-contraction. The
first technique gives the practitioner the opportunity to give support
while still maintaining full range of motion. This enables the
individual to participate in his/her normal physical activities with
functional assistance. The second technique, which is most commonly
used in the acute stage of rehabilitation, helps prevent overuse or
over-contraction and helps provide facilitation of lymph flow for an
entire 24 hour period. Correctional techniques include mechanical,
lymphatic, ligament/tendon, fascia, space and functional. Kinesio® Tex
Tape can be used in conjunction with other therapies, including
cryotherapy, hydrotherapy, massage therapy and electrical stimulation.

Kinesio® Taping affects the activation of the neurological system
and the circulatory system. Muscles are not only attributed to the
movements of the body, they also control the circulation of venous and
lymph flows, body temperature, etc. Therefore, the failure of the
muscles to function properly induces various kinds of symptoms.
Consequently, more attention was given to the importance of muscle
function in order to activate the body's own healing process. Using an
elastic tape, such as Kinesio® Tex Tape, it was discovered that muscles
and other tissues could be helped by outside assistance. Kinesio®
Taping is an innovative approach to treating nerves, muscles and organs.

Since the introduction of Kinesio® Taping in the United States,
medical practitioners such as PTs, ATCs, OTs, DCs, MTs and MDs have
recognized and embraced this effective, safe and best of all,
easy-to-use modality. The method and tape allow the individual to
receive the therapeutic benefits 24 hours a day with both comfort and
ease because it can be worn for several days per application.
Currently, Kinesio® Taping is used in hospitals, clinics, high schools
and by even by professional sports teams.