Dr. Jamie Stokes
Physical Therapist
Pelvic Health Specialist

What is Kinesio Tape?

The Kinesio Taping® Method is a definitive rehabilitative taping technique that is designed to facilitate the body’s natural healing process while providing support and stability to muscles and joints without restricting the body’s range of motion as well as providing extended soft tissue manipulation to prolong the benefits of manual therapy administered within the clinical setting. Latex-free and wearable for days at a time, Kinesio® Tex Tape is safe for populations ranging from pediatric to geriatric, and successfully treats a variety of orthopedic, neuromuscular, neurological and other medical conditions.  By targeting different receptors within the somatosensory system, Kinesio® Tex Tape alleviates pain and facilitates lymphatic drainage by microscopically lifting the skin. This lifting affect forms convolutions in the skin thus increasing interstitial space and allowing for a decrease in inflammation of the affected areas.

How does Kinesio Tape work?

Kinesio Tape alleviates discomfort and facilitates lymphatic drainage by microscopically lifting the skin. This lifting affect forms convolutions in the skin thus increasing interstitial space and allowing for a decrease in inflammation, reducing pressure while enabling a more effective flow of lymphatic fluid in and out of the target area. Kinesio Tape can be applied in hundreds of ways and has the ability to re-educate the neuromuscular system, reduce inflammation, prevent injury and promote good circulation and healing, and assist in returning the body to homeostasis. The heat activated acrylic adhesive is bonded to the fabric in a wave pattern similar to fingerprints. This assists the lifting of the skin, often seen as convolutions. The breathability and gentle adhesive allow for repeated applications without skin irritation. Like the skin, Kinesio Tex tape is porous. The combination of the cotton latex free fabric and the wave pattern adhesive improves patient comfort by allowing the skin to breathe. The water resistant protectorate applied to the cotton fibers resists moisture penetration and allows for “quick drying”. This assures that the patient may shower and the tape will remain effective and in good position for three to five days.