What is Kinesio Taping

The Kinesio Taping Method has taken the Rehabilitation and Sports Medicine world by storm. This amazing taping method was developed by Dr. Kenzo Kase over 25 years ago in Japan. Since then, Kinesio Taping has become the gold standard for therapeutic and rehabilitative taping. This proprietary method of taping uses a uniquely designed and patented tape for treatment of muscular disorders and lymphedema reduction, among other things.

If you are one that enjoys sports, then there is a good chance you have seen it in action...

The Kinesio Taping Method involves taping over and around muscles in order to assist and give support or to prevent over-contraction. The first technique gives the practitioner the opportunity to give support while still maintaining full range of motion. This enables the individual to participate in his/her normal physical activities with functional assistance. The second technique, which is most commonly used in the acute stage of rehabilitation, helps prevent overuse or over-contraction and helps provide facilitation of lymph flow for an entire 24 hour period. Correctional techniques include mechanical, lymphatic, ligament/tendon, fascia, space and functional. Kinesio Tex Tape can be used in conjunction with other therapies, including cryotherapy, hydrotherapy, massage therapy and electrical stimulation.

Kinesio Taping affects the activation of the neurological and the circulatory systems. Muscles are not only attributed to the movements of the body, they also control the circulation of venous and lymph flows, body temperature, etc. Therefore, the failure of the muscles to function properly induces various kinds of symptoms. Consequently, more attention was given to the importance of muscle function in order to activate the body's own healing process. Using an elastic tape, such as Kinesio Tex Tape, it was discovered that muscles and other tissues could be helped by outside assistance. Kinesio Taping is an innovative approach to treating nerves, muscles and organs.

Personally, I have gotten great results with my patients and athletes both. The tape is great for acute sprains/strains, over-contracted postural muscles, rotator-cuff/shoulder rehab, and for general neuromuscular re-education in the adjustments and corrective phase of care. I have taped backs, shoulders, necks, wrists, knees, ankles, ribs, plantar fasciitis, etc. Kinesio Tape is water resistant, and the typical appilcation lasts 3-5 days depending on the activity level and amount of moisture generated (athletes generally require more tape).

Yours in Health,

Dr. Mason