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Kinesio Taping - Common Questions

OPTP Insider Newsletter April 2008 800-367-7393 www.optp.com How does Kinesio taping differ from traditional athletic taping? Conventional athletic taping is designed to restrict the movement of the affected muscles and joints. For this purpose, several layers of tape must be rolled around and/or over the afflicted area, applying significant pressure, resulting in the obstruction of the flow of bodily fluids, and undesirable side-effect. This is also the reason athletic tape is typically applied immediately prior to the sports activity and removed immediately after the activity is finished. Since Kinesio tape is designed with the fluid movement of the fascia in mind and facilitates, rather than restricts normal biomechanics, it will not interfere with activities. Kinesio tape works by activating neurological, circulatory and lymphatic networks to stimulate a return to homeostatic balance, relieving pain and swelling and restoring normal musculoskeletal function. What are some characteristics of Kinesio Tape that make it unique? The thickness, weight and elasticity of Kinesio tape is approximately that of skin. Kinesio tape is made of 100% cotton and stretches similar to how skin moves. It is this property that allows Kinesio tape to work with the soft tissue of the body versus restricting it. Kinesio tape is a good modality for the treatment of lymphoedema and chronic swelling and can be used to assist in the positioning of muscle, fascia tissue, or joint to stimulate a sensation which results in the bodys adaptation to the stimulus. Functional support can be maintained without losing active range of motion or inhibiting circulation. How can Kinesio taping help with Lymphoedema? The lymphatic correction technique is used to assist in the removal of edema by directing fluid away from a congested lymph node. This is accomplished by the lifting effect and elasticity of Kinesio tape. The lifting of superficial skin decreases pressure and opens initial lymphatics, while the tape creates a massaging action during active motion. The effect of Kinesio taping on muscle improves the efficiency of the deeper lymphatics by allowing maximum contraction and relaxation of a muscle. How long can you wear Kinesio tape? Kinesio tape can be left on for 3-5 days. The thickness of the Kinesio tape is approximately the same as the epidermis layer of the skin. This was intended to limit the bodys perception of weight and avoid sensory stimuli when properly aided. After approximately 10 minutes, the patient will generally not perceive there is tape on their skin which makes it comfortable to wear for days at a time.

Are there different types of Kinesio Tape? There are a few different types of Kinesio Tex tape. OPTP carries the Kinesio Tex Gold Original Wave Pattern tape. Future stock of Kinesio Tex Gold will be water resistant. This tape is available in four different colors; Beige, Black, Blue and Red, but there is no physical or chemical difference between the colors. How can I learn more about Kinesio taping? In the OPTP catalog, you will find a variety of Kinesio taping resources from general to specific Kinesio taping methods which are listed below. Kinesio Taping for Lymphoedema

Acupressure Taping

With the introduction of our unique lymphoedema techniques, Kinesio Taping now offers an effective modality to compliment other lymphoedema treatments. This taping resource demonstrates, step-by-step instruction of over 108 common and not-so-common applications associated with lymphoedema, chronic swelling and scar management. This book is spiral bound and 172 pages. Item #8191

Based on the Kinesio Taping Method, the authors of Acupressure Taping draw on their knowledge of traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture and osteopathy and take it a step further. The self-help taping protocols presented are designed to stimulate acupuncture points by combining principles of acupressure and massagefor improved healing and pain relief. Those who suffer from chronic pain conditions such as low back pain, tennis elbow, menstrual pain or tension headaches will find welcomed relief without side effects! It is illustrated, soft cover and 122 pages. Item #8644

Clinical Therapeutic Applications of the Kinesio Taping Method

Kinesio Taping in Pediatrics, Fundamentals and Whole Body Taping

Written in a user-friendly style, this full-color manual is a must have for pediatric therapists using the Kinesio Taping Method. The intent of the book is to help you build the foundation of skills needed for effective taping and improved patient outcomes. The covered KT applications are those that affect children from infant to adolescent. Item #8189

This text is an essential clinical guide demonstrating the Kinesio Taping Method. Over fifty clinical conditions are covered including patellofemoral, myofascial, and osteoarthritis. Methods such as mechanical correction, fascia correction, functional correction, lymphatic correction, and ligament correction are explained thoroughly with excellent photo imagery. It is soft cover and 198 pages. Item #8190-2

Copyright 2008, OPTP

All products mentioned in this newsletter can be purchased from OPTP. Shop online at www.optp.com or talk to one of our knowledgeable customer service representatives Monday-Friday from 8AM-5PM CST. Call us today at 1-800-367-7393, and well be happy to assist you with all your health and fitness needs. For full length articles, visit our Newsletter Archives at www.optp.com. All articles are available for free PDF download.