Kinesio Taping -vs- Athletic Taping

Kinesio Tape was introduced to the United States in 1995 through the athletic population and is becoming more and more widespread in its use by physical therapists, athletic trainers, orthopedists, chiropractors and other medical practitioners.

Dr. Kase, a chiropractor in Japan, developed this technique over 20 years ago.

It works fundamentally different than conventional athletic tape because it ensures that the muscles have free range of motion. The tape is elastic and will stretch up to 30% to 40% of its original length. Conventional athletic tape is designed to restrict the movement of the affected muscles and joints (for support only), which results in obstruction of the flow of circulation (undesirable for Kinesio Tape). It is used to assist in the function rather than resisting movement.

Kinesio Tape can be used as an effective modality to treat neurological, circulatory and musculoskeletal problems. The tape serves to activate the neurological (proprioceptive) and circulatory systems and will aide the body’s own natural healing process. A complete examination of the patient’s condition and stage of healing is an integral part in determining which taping technique should be used.