Kinesio tape is a brand of adhesive tape used to treat many types of injuries. There are different techniques used for different areas of the body and for what is affecting each area. While the application and prep is always the same, the reason for taping will vary. Make sure to have a trained professional properly evaluate the area and show you what techniques to use.
Using Kinesio Tape
Step 1
Have the area of interest properly evaluated to know how to tape and with what style of cut.
Step 2
Cleanse the skin and if the area of interest is excessively hairy, and the hair will interfere with adhesion, trim or shave the hair.
Step 3
As an optional step, for very active people or an area of skin that will be stretched a lot, prep the skin with alcohol or spray adhesive and make sure the skin is completely dry.
Step 4
If the skin is sensitive, place a small test strip on the skin and recheck in 24 hours for a reaction. If there is no reaction, proceed with taping.
Step 5
Measure the length of tape you will need. The tape has lines on the backing to help cut straight lines. Round both ends of the tape with scissors. Cut any pattern into the tape that will be needed.
Step 6
Slowly and carefully peel the backing off of 2 inches of the tape. If done too quickly, the tape will fold in on itself. The first 2 inches is to be applied as your base. Stick to the skin and rub to activate the glue. Heat in general helps the glue stick
Step 7
Try to bend or stretch the muscles and skin that will be taped. Then peel off the backing for the rest of the tape and move along the skin. Tension in the tape is important, so follow the advice given to you by a professional for what type of tension to use, for too much tension or stretch can cause an adverse reaction.
Step 8
Rub the tape vigorously to activate the glue, and then allow the muscle to return to a resting position. The tape can stay on for 3-to-5 days.
Tips and Warnings
- Waterproof Kinesio tape can be purchased for those who are in the water more often There are many brands of this type of adhesive, and some brands are better than others
- If itching or redness occurs after the tape is on, remove it and allow the skin to calm down.
Things You'll Need
- Kinesio tape
- Sharp scissors
- Alcohol pads
- Shaving razor
References
- Clinical Therapeutic Applications of the Kinesio Taping Method by Kenzo Kase et al 2003
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