For many people experiencing minor injuries, not doing their workout or foregoing training is simply not an option. Yet continuing to use the injured area can have devastating results, including further training setbacks or even more serious injuries. Using kinesiology tape on the affected area, however, can provide support and allow you to train or exercise safely. The key to doing so is to learn how to properly apply the tape by asking a physical therapist, an athletic trainer or similar individual trained to use it. Here are some reasons why kinesiology tape works.
When properly placed on the skin kinesiology tape pulls on the upper layers to create additional space between the dermis and muscle. This additional space is though to relieve pressure on lymph channels and create better drainage. Nerve receptors in this area are usually compressed during an injury and often sent out reactive responses to cold, pain, pressure and heat. The tape alters the information sent out, allowing the body to work in a more normal manner while augmenting healing.
Kinesiology tape also affect tissues deeper in the body as the increased space allows more contractility, which pushes more fluid through muscles, resulting in better performance. Muscle fatigue is reduced while range of motion and quality muscle contractions increase. Use of this tape may also improve joint alignment and possible reduce poor function by influencing opposing muscle groups and joint mobility.
Six basic concepts are behind the use of kinesiology tape. Mechanical corrections improve biomechanics and stability. Fascial taping creates or directs movement of fascia. When used to decrease pressure over a certain area, it’s called a space correction. Tendon and ligament corrections decrease stress on those areas. Functional taping assists or limits motion while circulatory taping helps to move lymphatic fluid out of the affected area.
For more information on how to ease the effects of sports injuries, contact us at Mueller Sports Medicine.