The Basics of Applying Kinesiology Tape

How to Apply Kinesiology Tape

Kinesiology tape has many benefits. It can be used to relieve pain, reduce swelling, increase blood flow, promote healing, improve athletic performance and provide functional support of injured joints and muscles. It has the same thickness and elasticity as skin, allowing it to move naturally with the body and interact with the underlying structures. It is believed to work by lifting the skin to allow blood flow to an injured area while also effectively dispersing fluid from areas of swelling.  Once you apply it, it can be worn for up to 5 days. You can shower, run and do your thing and the quality brands of tape will stay in place. The list of applications, therapeutic uses and benefits is amazing. Many times people can't believe it until they use it. When kinesiology tape first came out, its usage was limited to chiropractors, physical therapists and other trained clinical specialists. Over the last few years, there has been a tremendous surge in popularity and we’re seeing the use of kinesiology tape grow rapidly in the pro athlete arena as well as among sports enthusiasts and every day consumers who are looking for a new, effective approach to healing and pain management.

Kinesiology Tape is Not Athletic Tape

 Kinesiology tape application

The thinness and elasticity of kinesiology make it completely different from rigid athletic tape. Whereas athletic tape restricts movement and blood-flow, kinesiology tape encourages normal movement and actually enhances circulation. These differences are what make its application processes unique and important. The keys to applying it correctly include the amount of stretch in both the tape and the injured area, as well as the positioning of the tape on the skin. While traditional athletic tape tends to be wrapped tightly around an injured body part and must be removed immediately after activity, kinesiology tape is applied over and around the borders of muscles and joints, allowing it to be worn safely and comfortably for several days. The amount of stretch in the tape can vary, depending on the purpose of the application. For example, if your goal is pain relief, it is important to stretch the muscles being taped, but have no stretch in the tape itself. Different injuries and conditions also lend themselves to different varieties of tape (i.e., rolls or precut) and what method of application to follow. For an injury that you are taping  for a reduction in swelling, a precut edema tape would be an ideal choice for to encourage lymphatic drainage. Because there are numerous ways the tape can be used and applied, it is a good idea to learn a few basics of kinesiology taping so you can get the maximum benefit from every application. Following are some of our favorite resources:

Kinesiology Taping Instruction Resources

  • Instructional Videos  - For more in-depth instruction, we provide an excellent resource library of Instructional Kinesiology Tape Application Videos from many of the amazing brands we carry. You can find application instructions by brand or body part.

Theratape.com also offers a wide-variety of kinesiology taping instruction manuals and DVDs with comprehensive instructions for readers and kinesiology tape users of all backgrounds. Applying kinesiology tape doesn’t have to be intimidating. You don’t have to be a professional to apply it.  The key is simply to do a bit of homework first and choose the right tape for you. Want to stay up to date with Theratape and learn more about the benefits of kinesiology tape? Add us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube!    

The Basics of Applying Kinesiology Tape

There are 147 products.

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Genesis Excel Performance Tape - Fitting & Protection Tape for Bowlers

$12.99 $14.99

Excel Performance Tape is a multi-use kinesiology tape developed to assist bowlers with ball fitting, release speed and skin protection. Rather than being applied inside the holes of the bowling ball, Excel Performance Tape is applied directly to the thumb and fingers. The highly elastic synthetic fabric stretches and moves with your skin and the patented adhesive leaves no sticky residue. The 2.75" x 1" (7cm x .5cm) size is perfect for wrapping around fingers and thumbs, but is also great for toes, heels and other small areas of the body that need some extra protection.

Excel Performance Tapes provide you with superior protection against blisters, cuts and abrasions, and is available in five distinct styles. Ranging in texture, thickness and elasticity, these tapes give you a multitude of options to fine tune release speed, plus the ability to layer pieces for the perfect fit with less waste, and the power of kinesiology to increase blood flow and control swelling.

Availability: Product available with different options
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RockTape Assassins Knee Sleeves

$45.00 $70.00

One of the most important components of lifting is maintaining knee stability. The heavier the lift, the more strain the knees and quadriceps undergo. If your knees hurt when you lift or you have trouble stabilizing them, RockTape\'s Assassins could become your new best workout buddy.

Assassins are designed to provide compression, warmth and lateral stability when performing functional movements such as dead lifts, pistols and squats. Unlike other supports, they are extra tall and designed to compress the vastus medialis oblique (VMO) at its insertion point above the patella (kneecap) to help ensure proper stability and tracking. Assassins also provide compression and warmth to promote blood flow to the knees and surround musculature.

Assassins are sold in pairs and come in 2 thicknesses (5mm and 7mm), 5 sizes (XS - XL)

  • SBR Neoprene front protection and 4-way stretch lycra side panels
  • Double Mauser Stitching - the latest in stitching technology, which greatly enhances durability
Availability: Sold Out

KT Tape Recovery Patches for Swelling & Inflammation

$9.99

DISCONTINUED BY KT TAPE

The KT Tape Recovery+ Patch is a groundbreaking product for the treatment of swelling, inflammation and bruising. The unique one-piece design makes it possible to apply an effective edema application in less than a minute. Simply remove the backing from the center part of the application and apply over the affected area. Then remove the backing strip from the outer edge and smooth the tape down. Compare this to the tedious process of cutting and applying hand-cut fan strips and you\'ll understand why this is a game changer!



    • Can be used on any part of the body

    • Effective for acute or chronic conditions

    • No measuring or cutting required

    • Simple 2-step process for fast and easy application

    • No training necessary to apply effectively

    • Provides 24/7 therapy up to 3 days

Availability: Sold Out
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KT Tape Pro-X Patches

$15.99 $19.99

KT TAPE PRO X Patches are small 4" x 4" kinesiology tape X-strips designed to provide spot-relief for painful muscles, tendons and joints. Developed for active consumers who doesn\'t want to be slowed down by pain or complex taping applications, KT TAPE PRO X will stay in place through multiple demanding workouts for 3-5 days.

Each box comes with 15 precut X-patches in a hard plastic carrying case that will keep them in good shape no matter where you go. A Quick Start Guide with step-by-step instructions on the most common injuries is included with every purchase.



    • X marks the spot - apply directly over painful areas anywhere on the body

    • Bi-directional stretch for increased feedback

    • Made from synthetic microfiber for enhanced comfort and durability

    • Apply alone for pain relief or combine with KT Tape strips for additional support

    • Protective travel case keeps strips like new until used

Availability: Sold Out

CureTape Clean Skin Pretaping Spray

$20.00

CureTape Pre-Taping Spray is used to prepare the skin for the application of kinesiology tape, athletic tape or medical tape. It thoroughly cleans the skin, removing oils, lotions, sweat and residue that could prevent tape from sticking properly. CureTape\'s powerful, clinically tested, and skin friendly formula uses the power of denatured alcohol to disinfect, prepare, and clean at the same time.



  • Drastically improves tape adhesion

  • Disinfects skin to prevent infection

  • Non-aerosol pump spray top

  • Safe for all ages and skin types

  • Cleaning power of alcohol with minimized odor


Directions for Use::
Hold bottle 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.

Availability: Sold Out

KT Tape Cotton Grip Tape For Abrasion Control

$13.99

KT Tape Original Cotton Grip Tape for abrasion control is KT Tape\'s solution for the sores and blisters that come with using the *Hookgrip lifting technique. Each roll has been precut into 40 strips, each of which is 5 inches long and 2 inches wide (12.7 cm X 5 cm). This unique size is specially designed to wrap around fingers and thumbs to add a layer of protection where you need it most, and the strong adhesive will make sure that your tape stays on through blood, sweat, and tears!



    • Strong adhesive designed to withstand intense workouts

    • Protects thumbs from blistering and abrasion

    • Enhances grip during heavy barbell, kettlebell, crossfit, and Olympic lifting

    • Approved for competetive lifting (unless fingertips are covered)

    • Highest available strip count (40 Strips per roll).

    • 2" (5cm) width works for all thumbs

    • Strips are precut and tear off to save you time and effort

    • Latex-Free 

Availability: Last items in stock
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KT Tape Original Cotton Uncut Rolls

$10.97 $12.99

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.



    • 2" x 16\' (5cm x 5m) roll - enough for 8-12 applications

    • ultra-soft cotton for added comfort

    • light-weight adhesive lasts up to 3 days

    • dispenser box for easy access

    • includes Quick Start Guide with step-by-step instructions for common injuries

Availability: Product available with different options

Genesis Excel Performance Tape Sample Pack

$8.99

Professional Bowlers Association Registered Product



Excel Performance Tape is a multi-use kinesiology tape developed to assist bowlers with ball fitting, release speed and

skin protection. Rather than being applied inside the holes of the bowling ball like insert tape, Excel Performance Tape is applied directly to the thumb and fingers for a more customized application. The highly elastic synthetic fabric stretches and moves with your skin and the patented adhesive leaves no sticky residue. The 2.75" x 1" (7cm x .5cm) size is perfect for wrapping around fingers and thumbs, but is also great for toes, heels and other small areas of the body that need some extra protection.

If you\'re not sure which Excel product will be best for you, this sample pack is a great item to start with. It contains 2 strips each of Excel 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 so you can test them all to determine which gives you the perfect fit.

Availability: Sold Out

5-Pack Kindmax Precut Calf & Achilles Support

$34.95

Easy-to-apply kinesiology tape support for calf or achilles tendon pain. Illustrated step by step instructions in every package. Great for:



  • Achilles tendinitis

  • Strained or fatigued calf muscles

  • Calf cramps or spasms

  • Ruptured or torn plantaris

  • Recovery after surgery


* Contains 5 packages, each with 1 single-use application with a wear time of 3-5 days.

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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KT Tape Gentle - 20 Precut Strips - Beige

$13.99 $14.99

KT Tape Gentle is designed for anyone with sensitive skin. Its lighter latex-free adhesive makes it less irritating to skin and easier to remove. It was created for use during light exercise or for non-exercisers wearing kinesiology tape for therapeutic purposes. It provides targeted pain relief and will stay in place for 1-3 days.

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 natural cotton kinesiology tape and includes a Quick Start Guide with step-by-step instructions for common injuries.

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
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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.

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KT Tape Pro Uncut Single Roll

$16.99 $19.99

For those who prefer to cut their own kinesiology tape applications, KT Tape Pro is now available in uncut rolls. Each 16\' (5m)standard  roll can make 8-12 typical applications.With its hard plastic carrying case, it\'s the perfect item to keep in a gym bag or first aid kit.

KT TAPE PRO is the world\'s only 100% synthetic kinesiology tape, and was recently re-engineered with a stronger adhesive, to allow it to work in wet conditions and/or intense exercise.



    • Synthetic microfiber fabric for durability and comfort

    • UltraLite elastic core for enhanced support

    • Latex-free for sensitive skin

    • SecondSkin Adhesive lasts up to 7 days

    • Comes with protective travel case, sticker and quick start guide

Availability: Out of Stock
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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 Cotton Jumbo Uncut Rolls

$64.99 $65.00

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 Classic is made from 100% cotton fibers for optimal comfort and breathability.



    • Synthetic microfiber fabric is more durable than cotton

    • UltraLite elastic core for enhanced support

    • SecondSkin Adhesive lasts up to 7 days

    • Dispenser box for easy access

Availability: Sold Out