Kinesio Tape and How it Works!

If you've watched any type of sporting event lately the odds are you've seen athletes wearing brightly colored tape on their shoulders, knees, ankles, and any other region that could be injured.  What is this miracle tape?  Kinesio-tape.  Why are you seeing it every time you turn on a tv sporting event, or attending a local 5k, or even just walking through the grocery store?  Because it works! 
Here’s some history: Kinesiology taping was designed way back in 1979 by a chiropractor and acupuncturist by the name of Kenzo Kase. He believed that flexible tape would help to stimulate circulation to an injured area, therefore decreasing the time it takes for the injury to heal.  Since it’s introduction in the 70’s kinesio tape has developed in to a cost effective, non-invasive way to treat soft tissue and joint injuries and improve athletic performance.  

How does it work?  Kinesio-tape works in a few different ways; 
  1. It actually helps to decrease the perceived pain of an injured region.  Have you ever hit your shin and rubbed it, and suddenly realize you feel better? Kinesio-tape on the skin can interfere with painful signals which are directed to the brain. When the signals arriving to the brain are altered, it does not produce the sensation of pain. When kinesiology tape is properly applied, many of our patients call it “magic” or think that it fixed their injury instantly. In fact, it helps to change how your body interprets pain, turning down the pain “volume” that your body hears. 
  1. Kinesio-tape also helps to decrease inflammation in an injured region.  Grooves underneath the tape will work to lift and separate the skin to which it is applied.  This will promote healthy circulation to the area and improved lymphatic drainage; meaning the nasty by-products of inflammation can be removed faster.    
  1. Lastly, when applied correctly, kinesio-tape will provide stability to the affected area.  The tape will provide mild stability to allow a joint or injured area to move appropriately while decreasing chances of re-injury.  The feeling of stabilization will send signals to the brain telling it that the area is being supported, in turn the brain will allow the muscles around the area to relax.    

At Hamm Chiropractic & Wellness our preferred brand of kinesio-tape is RockTape.  Through trial and error we've found that RockTape has the most elasticity, stabilizes the best, and lasts longer than other brands that we've used.   When applied correctly RockTape can last 3-6 days and is waterproof.  If you'd like to learn more about how you could benefit from kinesio-taping contact us today!   

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