Kinesio Taping
Kinesio® Tex Tape can be used in treating orthopedic, neuromuscular, neurological and medical conditions.
Kinesio® Tex Tape and the Kinesio Taping Method provide support and stability to muscles. Based on kinesiology, the tape has the elasticity, adherence and breathability to allow the body’s natural range of motion and support the healing process and good circulation.
The added support and stability can greatly improve function and in turn, activity level. The major capabilities of K-taping are:
- Normalizing muscle function, allowing quicker return to activity
- Improved lymphatic and blood flow
- Reducing and managing pain
- Correcting misalignment of joints and tissues/re-educating neuromuscular system
Kinesio® Tex Tape can be used in treating orthopedic, neuromuscular, neurological and medical conditions. Assessment findings determine how the tape is applied. Application using specific shapes (I, X or Y shapes, for example), direction and amount of stretch will all be considered.
Kinesio taping has helped a great number of athletes, including Tiger Woods, Kobe Bryant, Serena Williams and many Olympians. Although designed decades earlier, the general public became aware of Kinesio taping during the 2008 Summer Olympics when Kerri Walsh played beach volleyball with a K-taped right shoulder.
Practitioners may become a Certified Kinesio Taping Practitioner (CKTP) by completing approved seminars and license agreement, passing an examination and maintaining a membership with the Kinesio Taping Association International (KTAI). CKTPs may then apply to become a Certified Kinesio Taping Instructor (CKTI). If selected, the practitioner must successfully complete the instructor certification program.