Ask the Expert: Everything You Never Knew About Kinesio Taping

TheDailyZeel

By: StacyAtZeel

Anyone who tuned in to the London Olympics were probably left wondering these same two questions: 1) what are my chances of scoring a date with Ryan Lochte, and 2) what in the world is that colorful tape decorating all of the athlete's knees?

Kinesio Tape was all over prime-time this summer. Zeel Chiropractic Expert Dr. Greg Shure, owner of Chiropractic and Wellness Center in New York City, tells us everything we need to know about the increasingly popular therapeutic technique.

What is Kinesio Taping?

Kinesio Taping is a therapeutic rehabilitative technique that utilizes latex-free tape to support and speed healing of the muscular system, which can be worn for a few days at a time. It provides support and stability to injured or underused muscles while allowing for freedom of movement, also decreasing pain and edema. Kinesio Taping protects joints and serves as a reminder to the muscular system, keeping it in the correct position.

Is Kinesio Tape only for gold medalists, or can non-athletes use it too?

Kinesio Tape is not just for athletes. It was designed for a wide range of patients, including children and the elderly. Due to the gentle application and durability of this technique, it is ideal for a variety of musculoskeletal disorders to decrease healing time and prolong any manual therapy done to an injured body part.

Many athletes turn to this technique to increase their performance ability, prevent injury, promote circulation and re-educate muscles. Active individuals find that Kinesio Tape can be used as a preventative device to support correct muscle function and increase performance too.

Is Kinesio Taping a lifetime commitment?

Not exactly. For the average person, Kinesio Tape can be left on for three or four days. For children and the elderly, no longer than one or two days is recommended due to potential skin irritation.

Are there any conditions Kinesio Tape can be particularly useful for?

For patients with a chronic condition, such as osteoarthritis of the knee, Kinesio Tape can provide consistent support to the joint and decrease overall pain and inflammation. As for patients with a new condition, it can be used in conjunction with active treatment to speed healing and support manual therapy techniques. However, it is not a cure by itself and should be used under the supervision of a health care professional.

Where can I find Kinesio Tape?

For proper usage of Kinesio Tape, a health care professional should be consulted to evaluate the area and show correct placement of the tape. After a few visits, the health care professional can teach their patients the proper application technique so that they continue it on their own.