How to Apply Kinesiology Tape

How to Apply Kinesiology Tape

How to Apply Kinesiology Tape

Click for Printable Version. Kinesiology tape is water resistant, yet breathable, allowing it to be worn for exercise, showering, or swimming. It dries quickly and seldom causes skin irritation. When properly applied, most kinesiology tape applications will last from 3-5 days. If you follow these tips on how to apply kinesiology tape, you will get the most benefit from each application.

Preparing the Skin

Skin should be completely dry and free of any lotions or oils. Wipe the entire area with rubbing alcohol, hand sanitizer or a pre-taping product like RockSauce. Apply tape at least 1 hour before sweating, swimming or showering. If applying after exercise, ensure that perspiration has completely stopped before applying tape. Small amounts of body hair will not interfere with the effectiveness or adhesion of the tape. Areas with significant amounts of hair should be clipped close to the skin for best results – and for less pain when tape is removed!

Preparing and Applying the Tape

General - K-tape can only be applied once, so avoid touching the adhesive side of the tape. To avoid skin irritation, the ends of each strip should be applied with no stretch. Make sure all ends are applied to skin, not to other pieces of tape. After applying, rub tape briskly from the center to the ends to activate the adhesive. Do not rub from the ends toward the center, or you may cause the ends to peel away from the skin. Cut tape with sharp scissors, being sure to round all corners to prevent ends from peeling prematurely. Tear the backing 2-3” from one end to create an ‘anchor’– the first part that will be applied. Apply the anchor end with no stretch in the tape, leaving the rest of the backing intact. Continue peeling the backing away in small segments as you apply the tape. Removing too much backing at one time can result in tape sticking to itself, and ruining the application. Precut Applications - Tear the backing at every serrated line before applying tape. Carefully follow instructions from product package, video or instruction manual. Precut Strips – some brands have a serrated backing to create Y or edema strips, but others do not. If the backing is not serrated, fold it along cut lines, then tear carefully before removing. Apply anchor end, then remove backing from one section at a time and apply.

Wearing the Tape

Try to keep clothing or equipment from rubbing on the ends of the tape. To dry tape that has become wet, pat gently with a towel. Do not use a hair dryer – the adhesive is heat-activated, and may become difficult to remove. Any ends that begin to peel can be trimmed with scissors to prevent further peeling.

Precautions

Do not apply kinesiology tape on any skin surface that is damaged – this includes scrapes, cuts, burns, sunburn or any type of rash or irritation. Individuals with sensitive skin should apply a test piece for up to 24 hours before a full taping. If skin irritation occurs, remove tape immediately. Do not overstretch the tape, especially at the ends. When the ends of the tape are applied to the skin with stretch, they can pull on the skin and cause rashes or even blistering.

Dealing with Skin Irritation

Kinesiology tape is made from cotton with a hypoallergenic acrylic adhesive. It contains no latex or medications, decreasing the likelihood of skin irritation. Individuals with extremely sensitive skin, however, may still experience rash, itching or irritation. There are also special gentle adhesive tapes available for those with sensitive or fragile skin. In addition, the following products have been reported to minimize skin irritation when applied and allowed to dry prior to tape application: Benadryl® Itch Stopping Gel, Maalox® or Tens Clean Coat Skin Wipes.

Removing Kinesiology TapeRemoving the Tape

Remove tape in the direction of hair growth, which is usually away from the center of the body on the trunk, and in a downward direction on the arms or legs. To minimize discomfort, press the skin at the end of the taped area while gently peeling tape back. Tape that is still strongly adhered to skin may be loosened by soaking with baby oil, vegetable oil or Perform-Lift Adhesive Remover for 5-10 minutes before removing.

 If Tape Won’t Stick

Check that all skin and tape preparation and application guidelines above were followed. It can be difficult to get tape to stick well on areas that sweat heavily, like the soles of the feet. Areas that are rubbed by clothing or equipment, or receive repeated body contact are also hard to get tape to stick to, despite the best precautions. In these cases, an adhesive spray such as Kramer Tuf Skin can be used to help tape stick. Spray lightly where tape will end, wait until area is tacky, then apply tape. Buy Kinesiology Tape  

How to Apply Kinesiology Tape

There are 63 products.

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Kindmax Precut Knee Tape

$4.49 $6.99

Easy-to-apply kinesiology tape support for knee pain and inflammation. Illustrated step by step instructions in every package. Great for:

  • Runner\'s jumper\'s or cyclist\'s knee
  • Arthritis, bursitis, tendinitis
  • Cartilage or meniscus injuries
  • Ligament or tendon injuries
  • Recovery after back surgery
Availability: Sold Out
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Kindmax Precut Lower Back Tape

$4.49 $6.99

Easy-to-apply kinesiology tape support for the lower back. Illustrated step by step instructions in every package. Great for:

  • Lower back pain, stiffness or spasms
  • Strained lower back muscles
  • Back fatigue or weakness
  • Arthritis or disc-related pain
  • Recovery after surgery

Availability: Product available with different options
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Kindmax Precut Neck Tape

$4.49 $6.99

Easy-to-apply kinesiology tape support for pain, spasms or stiffness in the neck, upper back or upper shoulder area. Illustrated step by step instructions in every package. Great for:

  • Neck pain, stiffness or spasms
  • Strained or fatigued neck muscles
  • Cervical disc disease or arthritis
  • Weak or imbalanced neck muscles
  • Recovery after surgery

Availability: Sold Out
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KT Tape Original Cotton - 20 Precut Strips

$11.97 $12.99

KT Tape Original Cotton is designed for use during light exercise or for non-exercisers wearing kinesiology tape for therapeutic purposes. It\'s lighter adhesive is easier on the skin and contains no latex. It provides targeted pain relief and will stay in place for up to 3 days, through daily showers, humidity, cold, even in the pool.

Precut strips are easy-to-apply and require no cutting. If you\'re new to taping, precut strips are a great way to start.

Each roll contains 20 precut 10" strips of synthetic kinesiology tape and includes a Quick Start Guide with step-by-step instructions for common injuries.

Availability: Product available with different options
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Kindmax Precut Wrist Tape

$4.49 $6.99

Easy-to-apply kinesiology tape support for wrist pain. Can be applied to top or bottom of wrist. Great for::

  • Carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Sprained or strained wrist
  • Arthritis in wrist or hand
  • Tendinitis in wrist flexor or extensor muscles
  • Recovery after wrist surgery
Availability: Sold Out
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KT Tape Cotton Jumbo Rolls - 150 Precut Strips

$64.99 $69.99

If you tape a lot, KT Tape jumbo rolls are the best kinesiology taping value you\'ll find. While bulk rolls from most other brands are 105\' (32m) long, KT Tape jumbo rolls are 125\' (38m) long. That\'s an extra 20 feet, or approximately 15-20 additional applications! Combine that with the fact that KT Tape bulk rolls are also priced lower than the competition and you\'ll see why they\'re the choice of so many health professionals.

KT Tape original cotton products are made with a light adhesive suitable for individuals participating in light exercise or exercise therapy. Those participating in heavy exercise should consider KT Tape Pro, which has a stronger adhesive.



    • 150 easy-to-apply 10-inch strips per roll

    • dispenser box for easy access

    • ultra-soft cotton for added comfort

    • light-weight adhesive lasts up to 3 days

Availability: Sold Out
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KT Tape Pro Jumbo Rolls - 150 Precut Strips

$76.47 $89.99

If you tape a lot, KT Tape jumbo rolls are the best kinesiology taping value you\'ll find. While bulk rolls from most other brands are 105\' (32m) long, KT Tape jumbo rolls are 125\' (38m) long. That\'s an extra 20 feet, or approximately 15-20 additional applications! Combine that with the fact that KT Tape bulk rolls are also priced lower than the competition and you\'ll see why they\'re the choice of so many health professionals.

KT Tape Pro is made from 100% synthetic microfibers for better performance in wet conditions.



    • Synthetic microfiber fabric is more durable than cotton

    • UltraLite elastic core for enhanced support

    • Secondskin Adhesive lasts up to 7 days

    • 150 easy-to-apply 10-inch strips per roll

    • Dispenser box for easy access

Availability: Product available with different options

5-Pack Kindmax Precut Foot Tape

$34.95

Easy-to-apply kinesiology tape support for foot and arch pain. Illustrated step by step instructions in every package. Great for:



  • Plantar fasciitis

  • Arch pain, fallen arches

  • Tendinitis or arthritis in the foot

  • Swollen, aching or tired feet

  • Recovery after foot surgery


* Contains 5 packages, each with 2 single-use applications with a wear time of 3-5 days.

Availability: Sold Out
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KT Tape Pro Wide - 10 Precut Strips - Jet Black

$19.99 $22.99

Need support that will endure your toughest workout? KT TAPE PRO is just what the trainer ordered. It will keep you pain free and supported exactly where you need it. KT TAPE PRO will stay in place through multiple demanding workouts for up to seven days. KT TAPE PRO will stick with you in the harshest conditions including daily showers, humidity, cold, even in the pool. Wide is perfect for larger application areas, like the lower back, thighs, shoulders, or calves.



    • 100% synthetic microfiber tape with reflective pattern

    • ultra-strong SecondSkin adhesive lasts up to 7 days

    • hard plastic carrying case with twist on lid

    • convenient, precut "I" strips - no scissors needed

    • latex and zinc-free

    • 10 brilliant colors to mix and match



Each roll contains 10 precut 10" strips of synthetic kinesiology tape and includes a Quick Start Guide with step-by-step instructions for common injuries.

CureTape Cold Gel Topical Cooling Gel (150ml)

$12.00

CureTape Cold Gel Pain Relieving Gel is an affordable and proven solution for pain from tense or injured muscles. Once applied to any sore or stiff muscles it provides a powerful cooling sensation that promotes circulation and relieves tension for hours. The main active ingredients are menthol and ethanol, but Cold Gel is special because of the Eucalyptus Globulus Oil and Glycerol in the gel. Eucalyptus Globulus is an stimulating, aromatic oil known for its cleansing properties and Glycerol is an organic byproduct of soap-making and has a powerful moisturizing effect.


Eacy tube of Cold Gel has a small opening for precise application that removes the need to apply the gel to your hands, simply apply it to the painful area and allow it to dry!



  • Small applicator tube chills the target area, not your hands

  • Less expensive than most comparable products

  • Active Menthol for long-lasting local pain relief

  • cooling sensation lasts for hours after application

  • Can be stored in the fridge for extra-strength relief

Availability: Sold Out
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RockSauce Ice Pain Relieving Gel

$39.99 $44.99

The 3 oz size comes in a convenient roll-on applicator that allows you to apply Ice wherever and whenever you need it without getting it on your hands - no more burning eyes after rubbing on a liniment and forgetting to wash your hands! The 32 oz (946 ml) pump bottle is ideal for clinical settings.

And, to top it off, RockSauce Ice can be used as a skin prep before applying kinesiology tape or directly through the tape at any time!



    • 3 oz roll-on applicator Ices the target area, not your hands

    • 32 oz pump bottle is great for clinics and training rooms

    • can also be used as a skin prep - apply to skin then wipe away excess before taping

    • 6% menthol - stronger than other topical analgesics

    • cooling sensation lasts for hours after application

    • store in the fridge for extra-strength relief



Availability: Product available with different options
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CrossLinq Small, Medium, OR Large Acupressure Tape Patches

$17.99 $18.50

This box Contains 20 Pages of Patches - Varies by per sheet.

CrossLinq Patches are easy peel-and-apply kinesiology tape precuts specially designed for use in relieving pressure in areas with bruising, lymph edema, and chronic pain or on acupuncture, acupressure, and trigger points. When applied to these areas, the grid pattern of the patches helps to lift and separate the skin and fascia and allow better drainage and flow of fluid to reduce pain and swelling.

CrossLinq patches come from the CureTape family of products, and are made up of the same fine, premium quality cotton backed with gentle and hypoallergenic but durable and waterproof medical adhesive that allows them to stay on comfortably for up to 7 days.

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RockSauce Fire Skin Prep and Pain Reliever

$43.00 $44.99

Say hello to hot! RockSauce is a topical pain relief cream that works by providing incredibly strong heating sensations that last for hours – with powerful ingredients like menthol and capsaicin that work together to soothe sore joints and muscles. Best of all, it can be used with RockTape – it soaks right through, without compromising stickiness – delivering pain relief in combination with the power of kinesiology tape. Available in 2 sizes:



    • 6% menthol - stronger than other topical analgesics

    • cooling sensation lasts for hours after application

    • store in the fridge for extra-strength relief

    • can be used as skin prep before taping or applied through tape without affecting adhesive

    • 3 oz Roll-On - keeps your hands clean and clear of the powerful active ingredients. Take it anywhere, apply it anytime with no mess and no hassle

    • 32 oz Pump Bottle - ideal for busy clinics, athletic trainers and other high volume users

Availability: Product available with different options
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Kindmax Precut Foot Tape

$4.49 $6.99

Easy-to-apply kinesiology tape support for foot and arch pain. Illustrated step by step instructions in every package. Great for:

  • Plantar fasciitis
  • Arch pain, fallen arches
  • Tendinitis or arthritis in the foot
  • Swollen, aching or tired feet
  • Recovery after foot surgery

Availability: Sold Out

RockSauce 12-Pack Merchandiser

$180.00

Say hello to hot! RockSauce is a topical pain relief cream that works by providing incredibly strong heating sensations that last for hours – with powerful ingredients like menthol and capsaicin that work together to soothe sore joints and muscles. Best of all, it can be used with RockTape – it soaks right through, without compromising stickiness – delivering pain relief in combination with the power of kinesiology tape. The 3 oz roll-on keeps hands clean and clear of the powerful active ingredients. Take it anywhere, apply it anytime with no mess and no hassle.


Rock Sauce contains a powerful formulation of 20% methyl salicylate, 10% menthol and .3% capsaicin - the maximum amount allowed in non-prescription products. The first thing you feel after applying Rock Sauce is a cooling sensation, followed by an increasing warmth that penetrates deeply into aching muscles. Its non-greasy formula absorbs quickly, providing rapid relief to painful muscles and joints.


This merchandiser pack includes 12 RockSauce roll-ons in an attractive display unit - ideal for displaying on counters where patients or clients check out. 



  • 3 oz roll-on applicator targets the painful area, not your hands

  • 6% menthol - stronger than other topical analgesics

  • cooling sensation lasts for hours after application

  • store in the fridge for extra-strength relief

  • can be used as skin prep before taping or applied through tape without affecting adhesive

Availability: Sold Out