How Does Kinesiology Tape Work?

How does kinesiology tape workHow does kinesiology tape work? It contains no medications or topical ingredients. It is so light and flexible, it is barely noticeable when worn. It is non-restrictive and allows normal movement. A roll of tape costs less than $20 and anyone can learn how to apply it. So, how can something so simple and inexpensive be so effective at relieving pain, inflammation and swelling? All of the wonderful benefits of kinesiology taping are related to three things: 1. How the tape interacts with the skin and the underlying fascia 2. How the tape interacts with the nerves under the skin 3. How the tape interacts with the circulatory system under the skin Following is a simplified explanation of the major mechanisms of action:  
Injured Muscle Without Kinesiology Tape

Injured Area Without Kinesiology Tape

Trauma to a muscle or joint causes blood and other fluids to collect in the area, resulting in bruising and swelling. As these fluids build up, they exert pressure on pain receptors (sensory nerves) under the skin, causing pain. This combination of pain and inflammation is beneficial immediately after an injury, when rest and immobilization are necessary. Following this acute phase, the fluid should begin to drain away through the lymphatic drainage vessels in the area, allowing the swelling to recede. Sometimes, however,  the inflammation can compress these drainage vessels to the point that they can't do their job and swelling persists. The blood vessels in the area are also compressed, which reduces the delivery of oxygen and nutrients for healing. The longer the cycle of pain and inflammation continues, the more delayed the healing response will be.
Injured Muscle With Kinesiology Tape

Injured Area With Kinesiology Tape

When kinesiology tape is applied correctly to the skin over an injured area, the elasticity in the tape gently lifts the skin, creating small convolutions or wrinkles on its surface, which can sometimes be seen in the tape as well (see image at top of page.) These convolutions create a microscopic space between the skin and the tissues below, with alternating areas of negative and positive pressure. In the negative pressure areas, the lymphatic vessels can dilate (open), allowing drainage of excess fluid away from the area, further reducing the pressure on the blood vessels and pain receptors. As blood flow improves, the enhanced delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the injured tissues accelerates the healing process.
 

How Kinesiology Tape Helps Bruises Heal Faster

One of the most dramatic examples of this phenomenon occurs when fan or edema strips are applied over large contusions, as shown below. The drainage of blood and fluid under the strips creates the distinctive fan pattern shown on the surface of these bruises. How kinesiology tape reduces bruising

Video - How Does Kinesiology Tape Work?

How Does Kinesiology Tape Work?

There are 147 products.

Kinesio Clinical Video Series - Throat & Mouth

$54.99

Kinesio® Tex Tape and the Kinesio Taping® Method can be utilized very effectively as a rehabilitative tool with feeding and swallowing issues. It increases sensory and muscle functions and can also be used to facilitate weak muscles. It can be used with a variety of facial muscles to assist with musculo-skeletal issues or oral intake. Kinesio Taping during a therapy session can assist with carry-over of therapeutic interventions for several days following treatment.


This DVD is part of the Kinesio Clinical Video Series, a collection of 10 training videos to help health professionals learn more about incorporating Kinesio Taping into their specialties. Each video is approximately 45 minutes long and features specialists in the topic presented.

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Nasara QuickStrips - Precut I Strips

$22.50 $0.00

I strips are the most commonly used taping configuration. They can be applied directly over the belly of an injured or overused muscle to assist in recovery or wrapped in a curved pattern around an injured joint. They can be used to provide decompression for pain relief or compression to promote recovery. Available in a variety of lengths for different body parts and situations.

Use the dropdown selectors below to customize your selection to fit your needs:



    1. Select strip length - 6", 8", 10" or 12"

    1. Select quantity - 15-pack or box of 50

    1. Select color - beige, black or light blue



*Not all option combinations are currently available. If you do not see your desired option in any dropdown list, try changing one or more of the previous options.

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Nasara QuickStrips - Precut Y Strips

$11.99 $13.99

Y-strips are used to provide both support and pain relief for injured muscles and joints. The base of the Y is applied at either the top or bottom of the injured muscle or joint, then the two arms are applied around the borders. Select a size large enough to surround at least 80% of the injured area. 


Use the dropdown selectors below to customize your selection to fit your needs:



    1. Select strip length - 6", 8", 10" or 12"


    1. Select quantity - 15-pack or box of 50


    1. Select color - beige, black or light blue



*Not all option combinations are currently available. If you do not see your desired option in any dropdown list, try changing one or more of the previous options.

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Nasara QuickStrips - Precut Edema Strips

$12.99 $14.99

Edema Strips are a safe, comfortable way to reduce swelling and bruising. Simply apply this light, elastic tape over any swollen area and it immediately goes to work increasing lymphatic drainage. Also called fan strips because they are applied in a fan pattern over the area of swelling or bruising, many people simply call them magic strips because they work so well and so quickly. Select a size to completely cover the affected area

Customize your selection to fit your needs:



    1. Select strip length - 8" or 10"

    1. Select quantity - 15-pack or box of 50

    1. Select color - beige or black



*Not all option combinations are available. If you do not see your desired option in any dropdown list, try changing one or more of the previous options.

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Kinesio Precuts

$6.49 $6.99

Precut Kinesio Tape applications are made from strips of Kinesio Tex Tape, pre-cut into shapes and sizes for specific body parts. Each convenient 3" x 7" foil packet contains enough tape for 1 or 2 single-use applications, plus application instructions. Each strip has been precut with smooth edges and rounded ends. The backing is perforated for easier application, and also has cutting guides for making size adjustments.

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RockBalls - Myofascial Release Balls

$24.20

Got painful hotspots or trigger points? RockBalls are a great way to perform self myofascial release with pinpoint accuracy. The mesh carrying bag includes a 3.5" spikey ball, a 2.5" smooth ball and an instruction book showing release locations for trigger points plus mobility exercises. The 2 different surfaces give you two different tools to break through tough tissues. Also included with every RockBalls kit is a Movement Manifesto booklet, featuring a multitude of corrective exercises and tissue release techniques.



    • Easy to use - just roll or press on trigger points, hot spots, tight or spasmed muscles to release spasms, tightness, scar tissue

    • Contains 2 PVC rubber myofascial release balls - one 3.5" textured (spiky) ball and one 2.5" smooth ball

    • Includes RockTape Movement Manifesto booklet with corrective exercises and tissue release techniques

    • Convenient and portable - keep one set at home and one in your gym bag

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Nasara QuickStrips - Precut X Strips

$8.99 $0.00

X-strips are the quick-relief strips of the kinesiology taping world. Each strip has a lengthwise cut from each end toward a solid center. For fast pain relief, simply apply the center part of the tape directly over any painful spot, then spread the arms and apply over the surrounding area in an X-pattern.

Customize your selection to fit your needs:



    1. Select strip length - 6" or 8"

    1. Select quantity - 15-pack or box of 50

    1. Select color - beige, black or light blue



*Not all option combinations are available. If you do not see your desired option in any dropdown list, try changing one or more of the previous options.

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PerformPrep Skin Cleaner

$18.99

PerformPrep Skin Cleaner is used to prepare the skin for the application of kinesiology tape, athletic tape or medical tape. It gently cleans the skin, removing oils, lotions, sweat and residue that could prevent tape from sticking properly. PerformPrep\'s gentle, environmentally friendly formula includes moisturizing ingredients to maintain skin\'s natural pH balance and minimize the chance of irritation.



  • Safe for all ages and skin types

  • hypoallergenic formula uses environmentally-safe ingredients

  • Does not dry skin like alcohol swabs

  • Improves tape adhesion

  • Light, pleasant scent


Directions for Use::
Hold can 3-4 inches from skin and spray entire area to be cleaned. Gently wipe the area with a clean paper or cloth towel. Apply tape when skin is dry.


Warning:
Use only as directed. For external use only. Avoid contact with eyes, open wounds, abrasions and mucous membranes. If swallowed, seek medical advice immediately and show this container or label. Keep out of reach of children. If rash or irritation develops, discontinue use and consult a physician.


For optimum taping results, use the entire PerformTex Taping System:
PerformPrep Skin Cleaner
PerformStik Tape Adherent
PerformLift Adhesive Remover

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RockBalls Infinity Dual-Action Fused Massage Balls

$24.20

Got painful hotspots or trigger points? RockBalls are a great way to perform self myofascial release with pinpoint accuracy. The mesh carrying bag includes a 3.5" spikey ball, a 2.5" smooth ball and an instruction book showing release locations for trigger points plus mobility exercises. The 2 different surfaces give you two different tools to break through tough tissues. Also included with every RockBalls kit is a Movement Manifesto booklet, featuring a multitude of corrective exercises and tissue release techniques.



    • Easy to use - just roll or press on trigger points, hot spots, tight or spasmed muscles to release spasms, tightness, scar tissue

    • Contains 2 PVC rubber myofascial release balls - one 3.5" textured (spiky) ball and one 2.5" smooth ball

    • Includes RockTape Movement Manifesto booklet with corrective exercises and tissue release techniques

    • Convenient and portable - keep one set at home and one in your gym bag

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RockGuards Shin Protectors - V3

$27.00 $60.00

RockGuards are durable shin protectors made with cushioned 5mm neoprene on the front and a lightweight mesh on the back. A 2" zipper at the bottom makes them easy on and off. Use them anywhere your shins may take a beating - CrossFit, mountain biking obstacle course racing, trail running, rope climbs, deadlifts, cleans, snatches and box jumps, just to name a few.



    • perforated neoprene on front allows breathability and release of water during OCR

    • 4-way-stretch lycra on back for less bulk and full flexion

    • 2" zipper for easy on and off

    • footstrap to keep them in place no matter what you do

    • RockGuards come as a pair

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Kinesio Taping for Lymphoedema and Chronic Swelling Manual

$65.99

Although focused on Kinesio Taping for lymphedema and severe swelling, this manual also covers basic taping techniques for common injuries. The most recently-published manual, it is beautifully illustrated, with simple, step-by-step, full color instructions.


This manual is recommended for individuals with a good understanding of anatomy and medical terminology or experienced professionals who have been trained in the Kinesio® Taping Method.


8.5" x 11" softcover, spiral bound
172 pages with color photos


Chapter List
1. Understanding Lymphoedema and Chronic Swelling
2. Fundamentals of Kinesio Tex Taping
3. Kinesio Taping for Acute Localized Swelling
4. Kinesio Taping of the Deep Lymphatic Pathways for Chronic Swelling
5. Kinesiio Taping of the Collector Lymphatics for Acute or Chronic Swelling
6. Kinesio Taping of the Superficial Lymphatic Pathways for Chronic Swelling
7. Kinesio Taping for Pitting Oedema, Indurated Tissue, Scar Tissue and Chronic Venous Conditions



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Kinesio Taping in Pediatrics Manual

$69.99

Developed for pediatric medical practitioners and therapists, this comprehensive manual covers conditions that affect children from infancy to adolescence. Its user-friendly format includes numerous color photos to accurately demonstrate each of the taping techniques.


This manual is recommended for individuals with a good understand of anatomy and medical terminology or professionals who have been trained in the Kinesio® TexTaping Method.


8.5" x 11" Softcover, Spiral Bound
218 pages with color photos

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Clinical Therapeutic Applications of the Kinesio Taping Method, 3rd Ed

$65.99

Clinical Therapeutic Applications of the Kinesio Taping Method is a detailed, technical manual, written for medical practitioners and individuals with an extensive understanding of anatomy and medical terminology. The 3rd edition, published in 2013, is a significant upgrade with 30 additional pages of KinesioTaping instructions and full color photographs replacing the old black and white images .


This is an official Kinesio Taping Method manual, based on over 30 years of clinical research, application and useage, including nearly 500 studies from more than 25 countries showing positive clinical outcomes.


The most comprehensive and up to date of all the KinesioTaping manuals, Clinical Therapeutic Applications opens by explaining the rationale and methodology for 7 different corrective taping techniques. This is followed by detailed KinesioTaping instructions with step-by-step color photographs for a wide variety of injuries and medical conditions. The table of contents is organized by body part, making it easy to quickly find taping directions for specific injuries or health conditions.


3rd Edition
8.5" x 11" softcover, spiral bound
274 Pages

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KT Flex Reinforced Knee Support Strips

$14.99 $15.99

KT FLEX is a revolutionary 2-strip system that provides effective support for weak or injured knees without the bulk or restriction of a stabilizing sleeve. It features KT Tape\'s patented FREEFLEX™ technology in the form of a flexible stabilizing bar embedded in the tape for added support and stability.



    • Supports like a sleeve without the restriction

    • Supports while allowing full range of motion

    • Water resistant, lightweight and comfortable 

    • Ideal for use in many athletic activities

    • Can be worn 1-3 days

    • 8 strips/package = 4 applications

Kinesio Taping Perfect Manual

$39.99

If you are a home user wanting to learn how to apply Kinesio Tape, this manual is for you. It was developed for the general population and requires very little knowledge of anatomy or medical terminology. It provides easy-to-follow instructions for taping a variety of common conditions, including low back pain, flat feet, neck pain, shoulder pain, carpal tunnel syndrome and charley horse.


Includes step-by-step photographs depicting the various stages of taping for each condition.


6"x8" softcover
132 pages



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Illustrated Kinesio Taping Manual

$39.99

This manual covers the essentials of taping for a wide variety of injuries and health conditions. Its step-by-step approach to the Kinesio® Taping Method includes clear, hand-drawn illustrations indicating exactly how and where to apply Kinesio® Tex Tape. Anatomical drawings of the underlying structures help readers understand the intent of each taping. A 7-page introduction explains Kinesio Tape theory and basic techniques.


Illustrated KinesioTaping is directed toward individuals with a basic understanding of anatomy and medical terminology.


4th Edition
8.5" x 11" softcover
Spiral bound, 107 pages



Availability: Sold Out