Is kinesiology tape a pain relief secret weapon?
You may have noticed your favorite professional athlete sporting kinesiology tape during a game, but the everyday person can use the tape as well.
The evidence in favor of kinesiology taping is not robust and is somewhat controversial. Though, a lot of studies show that it may be good for short–term pain management.
What are the benefits of using kinesiology tape?
Kinesiology tape can be used for short–term pain relief and modest functionality improvements. It can also help with facilitating lymphatic drainage, improving blood flow, supporting injured tissues and altering pain signals through sensory stimulation.
How does kinesiology tape work?
Kinesiology tape functions by lifting the skin and improving blood flow and lymph drainage. The elastic properties of the tape are thought to provide mechanical support without restricting range of motion, while the sensory input from the tape may alter pain perception through neurophysiological pathways.
When is it best to use kinesiology tape?
Besides using kinesiology tape for acute back pain, you can also use it to help with patellofemoral syndrome, the abnormal tracking of the kneecap over the femur. The tape helps keep the kneecap along the proper track over the femur and decreases associated pain. This practice should be paired with physical therapy to strengthen the muscles in the quadriceps and glutes.
Another use of the tape is for myofascial pain syndrome, a condition where you will have chronic pain in the muscles that often stem from trigger points, or tight knots in the muscles. The kinesiology tape can help provide short–term relief and can help with feelings of perceived pressure.
What should you know about kinesiology tape before using it?
It’s important to understand that kinesiology taping provides primarily short-term benefits, has minimal risk of adverse events, and works best when applied with proper technique and tension. The tension of the tape in different locations is what is most important when applying the tape and can cause pain if improperly applied.
Overall, there is limited knowledge around the long-term benefits of kinesiology taping. So, make sure you use the taping practice in conjunction with physical therapy and other treatment options for your condition.
Dr. Sujith Kochat is a sports medicine physician at Advocate Health Care.
