Kinesiotaping
Kinesiotaping is the rehabilitative use of a latex-free, elastic therapeutic tape that supports muscles and joints without restricting your range of motion. PAR Physical Therapy uses kinesiology tape with patients in Myrtle Beach and Murrells Inlet, South Carolina, after a proper evaluation of your condition.
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Tape that moves with you
Kinesiology tape is an elastic porous cotton strip with an acrylic adhesive, used for athletic injuries and a variety of other physical disorders. It stretches up to 140 percent of its original length, which allows much greater range of motion than traditional white athletic tape, and it can stay on for up to four days before reapplication.
Traditional athletic taping restricts motion to prevent further injury. Kinesiology taping takes the opposite approach, using the tape to open up the muscle and allow full movement. It is also meant to extend the benefits of manual therapy given in the clinic.
Four jobs the tape is meant to do
Support the muscle
To improve the muscle’s ability to contract even when weakened, and protect it from cramping, over-extension and over-contraction.
Ease congestion of body fluids
To improve blood and lymphatic circulation and reduce inflammation by microscopically lifting the skin.
Activate the body’s own pain relief
To work with the body’s own pain-relieving mechanisms by targeting receptors in the somatosensory system.
Correct joint problems
To improve range of motion where tight muscles are limiting a joint.
Five ways the tape is cut
Your therapist chooses the cut for the muscle and the problem.
Y cut
The most common. Used on muscles such as the deltoid, so it can surround the muscle.
I cut
For acute injuries in small or linear areas, mainly swelling and pain.
X cut
For muscles that change with movement, such as the back of the thigh.
Fan and web cuts
Large coverage, used to channel lymph drainage and decrease swelling.
Donut cut
Overlapping strips with the center cut out, for swelling in a focal or sport-specific area.
Wearing and caring for the tape
- The skin should be clean and free of oils, sweat and lotions before application
- Allow about 30 to 60 minutes for the glue to fully activate before activity or a shower
- Trim or round any edge that lifts in the first few days
- Pat dry with a towel. Do not use a hair dryer, because the adhesive is heat-activated
- Areas with a lot of hair should be clipped or shaved for best results
Taping questions
Can I put the tape on myself?
It is important to apply the strip with the correct tension. Too much tension reduces the effect, and it is better to use too little than too much. That is why we apply it after an evaluation of your condition.
How is the tape removed?
Removal is easiest after bathing or when the tape is moist. The tape is peeled from the top down, in the direction of the body hair, to limit discomfort and skin irritation.
Does the tape replace other treatment?
No. It is used with the rest of your plan, such as manual therapy and exercise. See sports injury rehab for the type of problem it is often used for.
Related care
Kinesiotaping in Myrtle Beach and Murrells Inlet
Call either clinic or request an appointment. We see patients in Myrtle Beach and Murrells Inlet, South Carolina.
We see patients in Myrtle Beach and Murrells Inlet, South Carolina.
Request an Appointment Call Myrtle Beach Call Murrells Inlet