Kinesiology tape application
At Atlas Chiropractic & Wellness, we offer Kinesiology Tape application as part of our comprehensive chiropractic and rehabilitation services. Whether you’re recovering from an injury, managing chronic pain, or looking to improve athletic performance, kinesiology taping is a simple yet highly effective technique that supports your body’s natural healing process.
What is kinesiology tape?
Kinesiology Tape is a flexible, latex-free tape designed to mimic the elasticity and thickness of human skin. Unlike traditional athletic tape, which restricts movement, kinesiology tape allows for full range of motion while providing targeted support to muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints.
When applied properly, the tape lifts the skin slightly away from the underlying soft tissue, which helps relieve pressure, improve circulation, and support proper function of the affected area.
What is it used for?
Kinesiology taping is used to:
- Support muscles and joints without limiting range of motion
- Reduce inflammation and swelling
- Improve circulation and lymphatic flow
- Decrease pain by reducing pressure on pain receptors in the skin
- Prevent further injury during activity or rehabilitation
- Enhance recovery from acute or chronic musculoskeletal issues
It’s often used by athletes to stay active during injury recovery, but it’s equally beneficial for everyday patients dealing with postural strain, repetitive injuries, or joint instability.
Benefits of kinesiology tape
- Pain relief for sprains, strains, and overuse injuries
- Faster recovery by supporting healing tissue and reducing inflammation
- Reduced muscle fatigue and cramping during or after physical activity
- Improved joint stability without restricting movement
- Enhanced proprioception (body awareness), which can aid in posture correction and injury prevention
- Support during activity without the bulk or stiffness of traditional braces or wraps
Conditions commonly treated with kinesiology tape include: tendonitis, shin splints, plantar fasciitis, IT band syndrome, rotator cuff injuries, neck and back pain, knee and ankle instability.
What to expect during treatment
Your chiropractor will first assess your condition and identify the appropriate taping technique for your specific needs. Then, kinesiology tape will be applied directly to the skin over the affected area in a strategic pattern, depending on whether the goal is support, decompression, facilitation, or inhibition of muscle activity.
The application typically takes only a few minutes and can last for several days, even through exercise and showering. The tape is designed to be breathable, water-resistant, and comfortable to wear.
How to prepare for kinesiology tape application
To ensure the best results:
- Wear clothing that allows access to the area being taped (e.g., shorts, tank tops)
- Avoid applying lotion or oil to the skin before your appointment, as this can reduce adhesion
- Let your provider know if you have any allergies or skin sensitivities, especially to adhesives
- Clean and dry the skin in the treatment area for optimal tape adherence
Is kinesiology tape right for you?
Kinesiology taping is safe for most people and can be especially helpful for:
- Athletes of all levels
- Post-injury or post-surgical patients
- Individuals with poor posture or repetitive strain injuries
- Patients undergoing physical therapy or chiropractic rehabilitation
Your chiropractor at Atlas Chiropractic & Wellness will determine if kinesiology tape should be part of your treatment plan and will ensure it’s applied properly for maximum benefit.