KINESIO TAPING

K-Taping

Kinesiology tape, also known as K-taping, kinesio tape, and other brand names, sell this specific type of soft tape that is applied to the skin and is left on for a long period of time, usually 3-5 days. It is breathable and water-resistant, but depending on application and your activity, it may begin losing its stickiness sooner. 

The tape is generally comfortable to wear and has many purposes as a therapeutic technique to alleviate pain and facilitate lymphatic drainage by microscopically lifting the skin to promote good circulation. 

It can be applied in a variety of patterns to encourage the lifting of skin and serve as a tactile cue based on the person’s specific needs.  

Depending on which pattern or specific area I am taping, will depend on if I apply a stretch to the tape or not. This stretch then provides more support/awareness, allowing you to get a maximum lift of the skin which can also relieve pressure on the pain receptors in that specific area.

Examples of how I use the tape include:
During pregnancy, we can tape your belly and give it some support in a variety of patterns depending on what you’re experiencing! Some women feel it helps with back pain, swelling, and more. 

Postpartum, it can be a great way to encourage awareness of a healing diastasis recti. This does not “pull your tummy back together for you”, it encourages the closed position of the abdominals so that you are able to better understand and feel postures that put pressure out on the belly and discourage the healing.

The low back! A Lot of women experience low back pain postpartum and find comfort and relief when having the tape on their back.

The knee and IT band area are very common areas that people enjoy having taped if they are experiencing pain when they run, they often say it feels supportive and comfortable! 

The shoulder and upper traps area is another common area that we can tape. This can help with posture awareness and shoulder pain. 

The ankle is also very common to tape following a sprain and can help with reducing swelling.

There are so many more ways k-tape can be beneficial in both recovering from an injury and wellness, please reach out if you have questions about your specific concerns.