Kinesio Tex tape became well known when the beach volleyball gold medalist Keri Walsh was wearing black tape on her shoulder during her matches at the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympics. She is not the only public figure that uses this product. A United States male beach volleyball player, Phil Dalhausser, used the tape for a rib injury. Tennis star Patty Schnyder used the tape for an abductor injury and she said, "It took away the pain instantly." This tape is designed to support and stabilize the muscles and joints without restricting range of motion. This makes it the perfect tape for athletes who want to be at the top of their game without limitations.
History
The Kinesio taping method was founded in 1979 by Dr. Kenzo Kase. He is a licensed chiropractor and acupuncturist who developed an athletic tape that would mimic the human skin closely to facilitate the body's natural healing process. This tape is stretchable to twice is length and allows complete range of motion of the body parts that it is stabilizing and supporting.
Purpose
The purpose of Kinesio Tex tape is to treat orthopedic, neuromuscular, and medical conditions affecting the muscles and joints. It also helps to re-educate the neuromuscular system, decreases pain and increases performance. The Olympic athletes who wore the tape on their shoulders and other body parts were trying to prevent injuries and increase healing without interference of their athletic performance. Kinesio Tex tape is able to do this because of the tape's flexibility and strength. It does this without any medicine or pain relief substance. With the ability to mimic the bodies natural motions, it takes some of the strain off the muscles and joints. It decreases pain and does not limit motion.
Comparison
Kinesio Tex tape offers a more elastic and movable option for athletes when compared to traditional athletic taping and McConnell Taping methods. These other tapes are rigid and act more like a brace. There are meant to be used for a short time because they restrict movement. Traditional athletic tape is applied immediately prior to an activity and taken off almost immediately afterwards. The McConnell taping is used for no more than 18 hours. Kinesio Tex tape can be applied and left on without concerns about side effects to the joint because there is no restricted motion.
Precautions
Kinesio Tex Tape should be applied by a trained professional and according to proper procedures that have been set by Kinesio research. This method has been thoroughly researched and quality products and care are top priorities for the Kinesio company. This product is available commercially and should be used with caution and under the supervision of a professional.
