Kinesiotaping

When did kinesiotaping make its worldwide debut?

1988 Olympics

What are the unique characteristics of ktape?

• Built in recoil

• 40-60% elasticity

• Thickeners and weight is similar to skin

• Porous/permeable

• Stretches uni-axially

• Latex free

• 100% medical grade with a heat activated adhesive

What are some indications for the use of ktape?

• Joint instability

• Ligament laxity

• Muscle spasms

• Weakness

• Lymphedema/edema

• Hematoma

• Joint mechanics

• Postural

What are some contraindications to the use of ktape?

• Active malignant site

• Cellulitis/skin infection

• Open wounds

• DVT

What are some precautions to the use of ktape?

• Diabetes

• Kidney disease

• CHF

• Fragile skin

• CAD

• Pregnancy acupuncture to induce labor

• Lymphedema

• Respiratory condition

How does ktape work?

Convolutions on tape lift the skin → the lift creates more space between the dermis and muscle/fascial layers → Extra space improves lymph flow, circulation, and relieves compression on nerve receptors → The extra space allows for the room for proper muscular contractility

How does ktape inhibit muscle?

• Applies pressure on…

  • GOT

  • Golgi tendon organs

When applying ktape, you should round all edges/corners. True or false?

True!

How long does ktape stay on?

3-5 days

What are the different kinds of ktape strips?

• I strip

• Y strip

• X strip

• Fan strip

When is the most common ktape strip?

I strip

What are the indications for an I strip of ktape?

• Corrective

• Pain relief

• Decompression

• Acute sprains

What are some indications for for a Y strip of ktape?

• Muscle spasms

• Weakened muscles

• Correction

What are some indications for a X strip of ktape?

• Rhomboid

• Postural alignment

• Decompression

What are some indications for a fan strip of ktape?

• Edema

• Moving fluids

• Hematoma

What are some indications for the mechanical application method of ktape?

Joint instability

How much tension should you use when targeting blood or lymph flow with ktape?

None to light (0-15%)

How much tension should you use if targeting muscle spasms or overused muscles?

Light to moderate (15-25%)

How much tension should you use when targeting a weak muscle?

Light to just below max (15-50%)

How much tension should you use if targeting ligaments or adhesions?

Almost to max (75-100%)

How much tension does ktape have right off the paper?

15-25%

If using ktape to help with SCM, do you apply it on the lengthened or shortened side? How old does someone have to be for this to really be effective?

Applied on lengthened side, should be at least 6 months old