Taping

What is the purpose of therapeutic taping in physical therapy?

To provide stability to unstable segments, reduce swelling, facilitate neuromuscular function, and correct posture.

What are the common types of taping used in physical therapy?

Athletic taping, Kinesio taping, and McConnell taping.

rigidity vs elasticity

tape provides support and protection when rigid but gives feedback and mobility when elastic

define breathability

dictates skin reaction and duration of application

how to determine the length of time for taping?

do you want to target more immediate protection vs long term cueing

What is the main characteristic of athletic taping?

It uses rigid cotton tape, is highly supportive, is not breathable and is typically applied for short durations.

what is McConnell Taping

typically done with Coverall applied to skin, followed by leukotape to "pull" or "stabilize to desired structure into a more optimal alignment

There is strong evidence for McConnell taping that help with ____ and ____

pain and functional ability

Does McConnell taping physically glide the patella?

no, it more likely creates a centering effect by means of compression

What is a key limitation of McConnell taping?

It can cause skin irritation and leads to a dependence on the tape.

what are the benefits of KT tape?

reduce pain, reduce swelling, improve blood flow, minimize bruising, muscle/tendon support, 2nd skin for friction

What is the recommended duration for Kinesio tape wear?

Up to 5 days, depending on skin quality, tension, and goals.

what is the mechanism behind KT tape and bruising and swelling?

Tape is applied with minimal tension, when stretched it rebounds and creates in the deeper tissue for blood and lymphatic flow

how does KT help with bruising?

it get the fluid moving

where should the anchor be placed for KT tape in regards to bruising and taping?

anchor should be towards larger lymphatic collection points

does taping reduce ANT knee pain?

yes but it is more of a nervous system effect rather than mechanical since sham was also found to reduce pain

how does taping help with pronation of the feet?

anti-pronation taping reduces extrinsic foot/ankle muscle activity

what does anti-pronation taping help with?

good for predicting if pt will respond well to an orthotic

ultra light 0-5% tension is for.....

epidermis layers

super light 5-10 % tension is for....

dermis layers

paper off 10-15% tension is for....

Superficial fascia

moderate tension 25-50% is for....

deep fascia

severe tension 75% is for...

tendon

full tension 100% is for...

ligament

What evidence supports the effectiveness of athletic taping?

It can decrease the incidence of ankle sprains without affecting biomechanics, speed, or power.

how to remove KT tape?

-go in the direction of hair growth

-go slow

-pull at an angle

-use baby oil or lotion