2012’s Summer’s Olympics thrust kinesiology tape out of the trainer’s room, and into the home. That move prompted many questions from you, the weekend warrior, with dreams of standing on the podium to receive the crown of victory just as the Olympian does. Knowing that ultimate victory requires sacrifice, and that sacrifice can occasionally lead to injury, you wanted to know how to heal like a pro. Here are some of your most frequently asked questions:
1. HOW IS KINESIOLOGY TAPE DIFFERENT FROM ATHLETIC TAPE?
Athletic tape is used to provide additional support to a joint by restricting its movement, while kinesiology tape is used to increase the joint’s range of movement by helping to improve blood flow and circulation. Since the use of proper kinesiology taping techniques are as essential to success as using high quality kinesiology tape, you will want to be sure that you are using the appropriate taping method for your injury.
Kinesiology taping techniques are included with each roll of tape, are available via instructional videos online, and can be obtained from qualified medical professionals.
2. HOW DO I APPLY KINESIOLOGY TAPE?
Kinesiology tape should be applied using an appropriate taping method to clean, dry skin. Depending on the area that is being taped, the skin may need to be shaved in order to obtain the best result. Since the adhesive is a key component of kinesiology tape, it is necessary for that adhesive to make secure contact with the skin. Once the tape has been applied to the skin, rub the tape to activate the adhesive. Since the tape’s adhesive becomes tacky when heat is applied, the warmth of the hand helps to do just that.
3. HOW DO I REMOVE KINESIOLOGY TAPE FROM MY SKIN?
Remove the tape in the same direction as the growth of the hair; applying baby oil, olive oil, or an oily lotion will help dissolve the adhesive for easy removal. Remember that since the adhesive is activated with heat, heat will not be helpful in removing the tape; therefore, trying to remove the tape during a hot shower will be counterproductive.
4. IS THERE ANY ASPIRIN OR PAIN-RELIEVING DRUG IN THE TAPE’S ADHESIVE?
No, there are not any medications involved in kinesiology tape or its adhesive. Any pain relief that is experienced is due to the body’s own healing mechanisms that are encouraged by the use of kinesiology tape and kinesiology taping techniques.
5. I SEE THAT YOUR MUELLER KINESIOLOGY TAPE IS MADE IN FOUR DIFFERENT COLORS. DOES EACH COLOR HAVE A SPECIFIC USE?
No, the colors of our kinesiology tape are simply for aesthetics, as one color of tape does not function differently than another. When you see different colors of tape used within a particular kinesiology taping technique, it is to visually illustrate the method. So take your pick: black, blue, beige, or pink.
What else would you like to know about our kinesiology tape? Ask us.