Taping
What is Taping?
Taping is commonly used as an adjunct to manual therapy. It is used to treat acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions e.g. joint instability, as a means of rehabilitation or prophylaxis in instances where support or stability are needed and to protect an injured structure while healing is taking place.
The most common form of taping is Rigid Taping which is primarily used to prevent or reduce the likelihood of injury. The aim is to keep the area of concern in a stable and specific position while allowing you to participate in your activity of choice.
Kinesio Taping
Another form of taping gaining popularity is Kinesio Taping. This technique is commonly in basketball, tennis, athletics and rugby. Kinesio tape is designed to mimic the elasticity of the skin and is intended to lift the skin in an attempt to promote lymphatic drainage which may help with a reduction in pain.
Mulligan Taping
Mulligan Taping (another form of rigid taping) and McConnell Taping (more specific to the knee) are also common techniques in clinical and sporting settings. They are used to help stabilise and improve joint positioning in an attempt to normalise movement and decrease pain.
You Ask, We Answer
What is kinesio taping (K‑tape) and how is it applied in chiropractic care?
Kinesio tape is a specialised technique which utilises a special elastic tape which is applied to the skin to try to support the muscles, joints, fascia and ligaments without limiting movement much. It is commonly used in the chiropractic setting post treatment.
How does K-tape taping differ from traditional athletic or rigid tape?
K-tape is elastic, stretches, allows for near complete range of motion, facilitates healing, may help with swelling and can be left on for up to 5 days. Rigid tape is non-elastic, doesn’t typically have stretch, restricts motion and is typically utilised for a couple of days.
How does K-tape work?
It is hypothesised that K-tape works through decompression which in turn reduces pain, reduces swelling, supports muscles and joints and helps with bodily awareness.
What conditions or injuries can benefit from K-taping?
Muscular and tendinopathic injuries like Achilles injuries, jumpers knee, joint instabilities like ankle, shoulder and sacroiliac joint, may help with correcting poor posture, swelling and sports injuries.
What should I expect during a K-taping treatment session?
K-tape is typically applied after hands on treatment. The tape is typically left on the skin for 3-5 days after the appointment.
How does taping complement chiropractic adjustments and rehab therapy?
Taping in general will enhance recovery be in rigid or kinesio.
Are there any side effects associated with K-taping?
The most common side effect is a skin reaction to the tape.
Who is an ideal candidate for kinesio taping, and who should avoid it?
Kinesio taping can be applied to most patients. We typically avoid using it on the paediatric and geriatric populations.
What does scientific evidence say about the effectiveness of k-tape?
There is favourable evidence for K-tape providing short term relief for certain types of musculoskeletal pain and can improved range of motion, swelling and proprioception when combined with exercise or hands on treatment.
How much does K-tape taping cost, and is it covered by insurance?
There is no additional cost for K-tape tape. Yes it will be covered by health insurance.
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