Kinesiology Taping for Cervical Spinal Stenosis

Cervical spinal stenosis is a condition which involves the narrowing of the spinal column in the neck area. Similar to its counterpart, spinal stenosis (a narrowing of the spinal column in the lumbar area), this condition is marked by stiffness, pain, inflammation, numbness, and weakness that can radiate throughout the shoulders and travel to the arms, legs and feet. Cervical spinal stenosis occurs when the area between the upper spinal canal (C2-C7) and the surrounding vertebra is narrowed, resulting in a compression of spinal cord and nerve roots. For most, this condition happens over time as we age, while for others, cervical stenosis can be the result of a birth defect or injury. The pain and symptoms associated with cervical stenosis can vary, depending on the progression of the disease. While surgery is an option for patients with advanced cases, those with milder cases can often utilize a combination of non-surgical treatments, including physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and kinesiology taping to help to ease pain, reduce inflammation, and improve mobility.

Kinesiology Tape and Cervical Spinal Stenosis

The application of kinesiology tape provides enhanced sensory stimulation, which can lead to a decreased perception of pain, which is a key symptom of cervical spinal stenosis. Kinesiology tape’s light weight and elasticity mimics the feel of skin, allowing for unrestricted movement, while still providing structural support. Its gentle lifting action works as you move, creating space between the skin and the fascia, which helps improve lymphatic drainage and increases blood flow, resulting in reduced inflammation and swelling. For those suffering with cervical spinal stenosis, the pain and inflammation is often continuous. Most kinesiology tape applications are designed to be worn for up to 3-5 days, allowing for continuous relief, even while showering, swimming, or sweating.   The following selection of videos provide kinesiology taping instructions for pain and inflammation association with cervical spinal stenosis: How to apply SpiderTech Fan Kinesiology Tape -  This video helps provide a great demonstration on how to apply the SpiderTech Lymphatic Spider, which is designed to reduce swelling, bruising and pain. Its "multi-fingered" design allows it to be positioned directly over the lymphatic channels that remove excess fluids from the body. How to Tape for Neck Pain with SpiderTech Precut Neck Tape Kinesio Precut Neck Tape Application Instructions