While looking for a solution to healing some of my own injuries, I came across a product called "kinesiology tape." I remembered seeing it on the volleyball players in the Olympics. I started researching the product and was impressed by its success in healing and performance. I became a Certified Kinesio Taping Practitioner (CKTP) and a Certified Roc Doc for Rocktape performance taping.
KINESIO TAPING® METHOD
Kinesiology taping is a rehabilitative taping technique that is designed to facilitate the body’s natural healing process while providing support and stability to muscles and joints without restricting the body’s range of motion. The taping application helps prolong the benefits of soft tissue manipulation/massage. Latex-free and wearable for days at a time, Kinesiology tape is safe and gentle enough to use on delicate pediatric or geriatric skin. Taping successfully improves treatment of a variety of orthopedic, neuromuscular, neurological and other medical conditions.
Kinesiology tape is specifically applied to the patient based upon their needs after clinical evaluation. Tape can be used utilizing a single “I” strip or modifications in the shape of an “X”, “Y” or other cut specifically to help improve a clients condition. The tape shape, direction and the amount of stretch placed on the tape when applied helps to provide the best outcome. Taping targets different receptors within the somatosensory system helping to alleviate pain and facilitates lymphatic drainage by microscopically lifting the skin.
Evaluation and assessment are key in the treatment of any clinical condition. In some cases, the taping application may require treatment of other underlying conditions as well. This assessment may include manual muscle testing, range of motion testing, gait assessment, and any other orthopedic special tests that are necessary. The information gained from these assessments will allow for the proper treatment protocol to be prescribed.
Kinesiology taping can be a valuable tool. It has been proven to have positive physiological effects on the skin, lymphatic and circulatory system, fascia, muscles, ligaments, tendons, and joints. It can be used in conjunction with a multitude of other treatments and modalities and is effective during the rehabilitative and chronic phases on an injury as well as being used for preventative measures.
Consumers should be aware that all taping products are not equal. All pain and body sizes are not the same either. Professional evaluation and application is key to effective use of tape. Randomly placing a piece of tape in an area because that is what the package suggested, may have no effect or could potentially cause an adverse effect.
ROCKTAPE
I am also a certified FMT RockDoc. Rocktape differs from Kinesiotape in that it has greater stretching composition. The adhesive is stickier so it resists water and sweat, and has a thicker weave. I began using Rocktape with young divers because it held up in the pool. The slight increase in the elastic component of the tape helps in reducing fatigue while competing. Rocktape otherwise has the same therapeutic effect as Kinesiotape by lifting the skin, reducing pressure on the receptors in the fascia and assisting in the transfer of lymphatic fluid.
