Kinesio taping : All you need to know-

Introduction-

Taping Method is a therapeutic tool and a modality used in pain management, soft tissue injury, tissues and joints malalignment, oedema and more.

Properties-

Kinesio Tex Tape contains either 100% cotton and elastic fibres or it can be a blend of them. The latter is a preferable choice for sensitive skin. Other characteristics  include

  • Stretches up to 120-140% of its original length
  • Heat activated adhesive
  • Hypoallergic
  • Latex-free
  • Can be worn for several days

Type of Kinesio Tex Tapes-

  1. Kinesio Tex Classic: the original tape and the most universal as it can be used for all applications. It is ideal for use on healthy skin.
  2. Kinesio Tex Performance+: best for sensitive skin
  3. Tex Gold: good for low tension applications and available only for trained professionals.
  4. Kinesio Tex Gold Light Touch Plus- for children and older adults with fragile skin.

Basics of Application-

  • Follow contraindications and precautions
  • Apply the tape on dry skin. The skim should be free of oils and lotion
  • Remove body hair if possible by trimming.
  • Round all the edges of the tape.
  • Once the tape is applied, activate the heat-sensitive adhesive by rubbing the surface.
  • defer activities that cause perspiration for atleast 30 minutes.
  • remove the tape if itching occur

When not to apply-

contraindications:

  • Malignancy
  • Infection
  • Open wound
  • Previous allergic reactions

Type of Application Stretch-

 0-5% (epidermis)

5-10% (dermis)

10-15%(superficial fascia)

25-50% (deep fascia)

75% (tendon)

100% (ligament)

Benefits of kinesio taping-

  • Increases range of motion
  • Improves Function
  • Decrease Swelling
  • Reduces Pain
  • Improvises quality of life

Advantages of taping-

  • It is an optional modality for treatment
  • Taping can be used on multiple patient populations,
  • It can be used at various stages of rehabilitation
  • Decrease in pain encourages movement and improves range of motion.

Disadvantages-

  • Can be expensive when used for a prolonged period of time
  • Can cause skin irritation or allergic reaction to tape

Also read- https://vcurehealthcare.com/pneumonia-one-of-the-increasing-causes-of-fatality-part2/

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