Kinesiotape
About Kinesiotape and ‘Kinesio Taping’
The Kinesio Taping® is a specific therapy method; a specific theory and application of kinesiotape. Kinesiotape is unique because the tape itself is tight and rigid in one direction but stretchy in another. What this does is promote movement in one direction and limit it in another. When your physiotherapist, chiropractor or massage therapist applies the tape, they will do it in a specific way that can improve circulation, limit painful movement, unload painful tissue, promote non-painful movement and even in some cases improve the speed and efficiency of a particular movement. All of these efforts will reduce pain, improve function and overall will contribute to a faster recovery. Kinesiotape also has the benefit of being applied when you do not have an injury but are looking to prevent a future problem or improve efficiency and performance. Kinesiotape can be worn for up to 5 days and can stand up to water, sweat, showers, and sleep, making it fairly convenient and beneficial over the course of several days. Kinesiotape also comes in Latex-free formulas and is safe for populations ranging from kids all the way up to seniors!
How Does Kinesiotape Work?
Kinesiotape works by targeting different receptors within the somatosensory system. Say What Now?? basically this means that the tape works by stimulating sensors in the skin. Our skin is our bodies largest organ and we have millions of sensor laces through it. Our brain are able to focus on specific sensors, however, we are better at focusing on some (eg. fingers) than others (eg. thighs). When kinesiotape is used, the tape pulls and puts pressure on the skin it is attached to, effectively stimulating the sensors underneath it and drawing our attention to the area. More attention means better coordination, more thoughtful movement and less pain (because the sensors we are stimulating are stronger and larger than the tiny ones that send pain messages!) Also, kinesiotape has the ability to lift skin up and away from itself, improving lymphatic drainage (garbage and waste removal). This improvement in waste removal reduces inflammation, increase circulation and overall contributes to faster healing.
What Injuries Can Kinesiotape Help?
Kinesiotape can be used for a VERY LARGE variety of cases including:
- Sprains and Stains
- Poor Posture
- Sudden Neck and Low Back Pain
- Pelvic Pain
- Repetitive Strain (Tennis Elbow, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, etc)
- Sport or activity related fatigue
- Balance and Coordination Issues
- …and much much more….
Who can Provide Kinesiotape Treatment At Pro Function?
Nearly all of Pro Function’s experienced therapists can provide taping. Please visit any of the following profiles to learn more:
Dr. Joesph Greenwood – Chiropractor
Dr. Nicole Thornicroft – Chiropractor
Dr. Jordan Kersten – Chiropractor
Kat Fraser – Physiotherapist / Pelvic Health Specialist
Erik Schmidt – Physiotherapist / FCAMPT
Angela Growse – Physiotherapist / Pelvic Health Specialist / FCAMPT
Troy Seely – Physiotherapist / FCAMPT