What Does Kinesiology Tape do?
By definition, kinesiology tape is applied strategically to the body to provide support, lessen pain, reduce swelling, improves performance and enhances recovery. When kinesiology tape is applied correctly, the tape works with your skin to help prevent injury and help you heal faster!
There’s so many types of tape! Which should I choose?
There are different qualities of kinesiology tape that are available. Most of them are “sports grade” meaning that these companies are satisfied at how their tape sticks when applied to the skin.
There are also “medical grade” tapes that are available. This means that the dyes and adhesives have been proven to be as unlikely as possible to cause allergic reactions and do not contain any harmful substances that may be absorbed by your skin. King Brand has Kinesiology Tape available that is medical grade and safe to be applied for prolonged periods of time.
How does kinesiology tape help with pain?
Kinesiology tape helps in reducing pressure to the tissue, which may reduce discomfort or pain. In addition, correct taping can help provide support to muscles by helping the muscle to not over-extend or over-contract.
How long should you wear kinesiology tape?
Most companies recommend wearing kinesiology tape for 3-4 days. Your skin is one of your largest organs, and needs to breathe! Ideally you should apply tape first thing in the morning, and then remove it before going to bed. While sleeping you’re not at any increased risk for re-injury, so you can let your skin breathe and then re-apply in the morning when you wake up.
Can Kinesiology Tape be Harmful?
Typically, kinesiology tape is only worn during activity, but it is also recommended to be worn for many days, and placing your skin in contact with adhesives for a long period of time can lead to serious allergic reactions. This is why it is important to research a medical grade alternative if you plan to leave kinesiology tape on for longer periods of time, or re-apply tape daily.
Can you reuse kinesiology tape?
No. One roll of tape should last for about 10-15 applications. If you plan on leaving the tape on longer than 12-16 hours, the good news is that you can shower with the tape on. Kinesiology tape is water resistant, so just be sure to pat the tape dry after a shower. If you’re wearing kinesiology tape for longer than 12-16 hours, consider spending a little more for a medical grade alternative.
How do I apply kinesiology tape?
There are lots of good videos on the internet for taping instructions, but here is one of my favorite websites to look at for taping ideas. HowToTapeInjuries.com – The instructions and images are detailed. They also cover all major taping applications, in just one site!