Have you been suffering from muscle soreness and a diminished range of motion? Is your poor posture causing your lower back pain? If so, then you have probably tried countless treatment methods to alleviate your discomfort.
However, treatments such as medications and steroid injections have potentially serious side effects. Additionally, these methods only provide short-term relief and do nothing to help you manage the pain long-term. Instead of opting for such invasive treatments, consider the holistic treatment method of Kinesio taping.
If you are unsure about this therapy, read on to learn the specifics about this natural, safe, and effective therapeutic technique.
What is Kinesiotaping?
Kinesiotaping is a therapeutic taping technique that uses Kinesio tape, or elastic therapeutic tape, on the skin. The goal is to alleviate discomfort, reduce inflammation, and improve range of motion by microscopically lifting the skin above the underlying tissue.
This form of therapy is typically used to treat injuries sustained by athletes or prevent injuries from occurring by offering your joints and muscles more elasticity. Outside of athletics, kinesiotaping is used to treat chronic inflammatory conditions and other muscular injuries.
How it works
Kinesiotaping is a very easy yet effective process. All that needs to be done is to apply the tape to your skin in an area of discomfort or tightness. The medical-grade adhesive of the tape allows it to stick on your skin for up to 5 days, and the water-resistant nature of it means you can keep it on during showers and exercise.
Once applied, the tape gently lifts the skin so there is some space between the tissue and muscle underneath. It is believed that this space allows for better circulation, reduced pain, and an increased range of motion. Additionally, there are different types of Kinesio tape depending on your needs and physical activity.
What are the benefits?
A primary benefit of kinesiotaping is pain relief and treatment. Typically used in conjunction with other techniques, kinesiotaping is used to reduce inflammation of the affected area. For instance, Kinesio tape on an ankle sprain can reduce swelling and restore range of motion.
Another benefit of kinesiotaping is that it can be used to reinforce weak muscles or joints by providing extra support. The tape has been shown to not only enhance movement, but it can also prevent injury. Athletes typically use Kinesio tape for this reason, especially since it can improve their performance and ensure they are playing at an optimal level.
Kinesiotaping can also re-educate your muscles and improve your posture. Applying Kinesio tape to your shoulders can help relieve any tension in the upper part of your body and stabilize your muscles. In turn, this will allow you to correct your posture while sitting and standing.
Schedule your first kinesiotaping appointment!
While the process of kinesiotaping may be a simple one, the results are long-lasting and guaranteed to improve your quality of life. Whether you are an athlete looking for better support and improved performance, or if you have been injured and looking for pain relief, kinesiotaping can go a long way in helping you.
If you have been convinced of the benefits of kinesiotaping, then it’s time to visit My Physio Sports & Rehab Centre, located in Vaughan, Ontario, Canada. Our certified physiotherapists are ready to meet with you and determine your treatment needs. After an initial assessment, you will create a schedule with your physiotherapist and schedule your first kinesiotaping appointment!
It’s time to stop the discomfort associated with stiff muscles and weak joints. Give us a call at 905-850-6683, or visit our online appointment page today!