what is kinesio taping?

Kinesio Taping is a technique designed to promote the body’s natural healing process. The method uses a uniquely designed and patented tape, Kinesio Tex Tape, for treatment of muscular disorders and lymphedema reduction.

The tape is applied over and around muscles to reduce pain and inflammation, to relax overused, tired muscles and to support muscles in movement on a 24-hour-per-day basis. The elasticity of the tape mimics that of the human muscle, allowing a complete range of motion, while its ability to “lift” the skin promotes increased circulation. This combination assists in the rehabilitation and prevention of injuries.

Kinesio Taping can be used for :

• pain and swelling reduction
• contusions and lymphatic drainage
• muscle inhibition and facilitation
• neurological re-education
• postural correction
• carpal tunnel syndrome
• lower back pain (subluxations, herniated disc)
• knee conditions
• shoulder conditions
• hamstring injury
• rotator cuff injury
• groin injury
• whiplash
• tennis elbow
• plantar fasciitis
• patella tracking
• pre and post surgical edema
• ankle sprains
• athletic preventative injury method
• pelvic support during pregnancy

It is a highly durable, elastic tape that stays on for 3-5 days. 

Recently Kinesio Taping has received lots of press due to its use by high profile athletes at international competitions such as Lance Armstrong, cyclist in the Tour de France and Kerry Walsh, 2008 Beijing Olympic medalist in beach volleyball.