Benefits of Kinesio Tape

WHAT IS KINESIO TAPE AND WHY SHOULD I USE IT

Watch any major sporting event, or head to a local race and you will likely see an athlete wearing brightly colored tape.  Far from a fashion statement, Kinesio Tape or “K-tape” was developed in 1979 by Dr. Kenzo Kase to help the body reduce muscle fatigue and swelling, increase circulation, and help the body heal itself while allowing a wide range of movement.  Many athletes question why they should use Kinesio Tape, and I feel the answer is obvious. Imagine a strategically placed sling or brace that gave you all the support for an over-worked muscle but didn’t restrict movement for the entire muscle group, that’s what K-tape does. It relieves muscle strain and aches while allowing the athlete to continue training more than using traditional stabilization methods.

Not sure what K-tape can do for you? Here are the major benefits of the technology:

Muscle Support
Proper taping improves the muscle’s ability to contract even when it’s weakened, reduces a feeling of pain and fatigue, and protects the muscle from cramping, over-extension and over-contraction.

Improves Range of Motion
When enough tension is applied, K-tape stimulates functional and mechanical corrections, improving range of motion and adjustment misalignment that result from tightened muscles.

Improves Circulation and Reduces Inflammation
Kinesiology tape improves blood and lymphatic circulation and reduces inflammation and excess chemical buildup in the tissue.

Pain Relief
The tape facilitates the body’s own healing mechanisms by mimicking the qualities of the skin. When the right amount of tension is applied, it allows blood & lymph to flow, reducing swelling and pain.