You have seen it on Professional and Olympic Athletes. The brightly colored tape running along or across the muscle. It is a cotton tape with elastic core allowing it to stretch in length but not width. The elastic fibers provide stable support without restricting range of motion like a traditional rigid athletic tape.
When an area of the body is injured through impact or over-use, the lymphatic fluid builds up causing inflammation and swelling. This accumulation of lymphatic fluids may cause increased pressure on muscles and tissue which can cause significant discomfort or pain.
It is believed that when applied correctly, Kinesiology Tape lifts the skin, decompressing the layers of fascia, allowing for greater movement of lymphatic fluid which transports white blood cells throughout the body and removes waste products, cellular debris, and bacteria.
Why Tape?
Kinesiology Tape helps reduce pressure to the tissue and may reduce discomfort or pain. Correct taping also provides support to muscles by improving the muscle’s ability to contract, even when it is weak, and helps the muscle to not over-extend or over-contract
Who should tape?
Nothing slows you down more than pain and injury. Kinesiology Tape is light weight, comfortable to wear, provides pain relief and support. It can be used for hundreds of injuries including lower back pain, knee pain, shoulder pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, sprained ankles, and tennis elbow.
A real story
This past weekend while sailing in Marblehead race week I took a spill on the boat twisting my ankle. With 3 days of racing to go, I put into practice my training in taping. Using kinesiology tape on my ankle I was able to reduce pressure among the different components of the feet, increase circulation to combat inflammation, and relax the muscles associated with the pain. The flexibility of the tape allowed me the support I needed and the flexibility to move about the boat and my foot still fit comfortably in the shoe.
Do you think taping is right for you?
Ask your massage therapist during your next visit if kinesiology tape can decrease your pain and get you back in the game*. Taping is available as an add-on to your session or can be purchased for home use.
*always consult with a physician if a fracture or tear is suspected
Body & Soul Massage offers the highest quality massage and bodywork in Salem Ma. For more information we can be reached at 978-825-0040 or www.bodysoulsalem.com