Add Kinesiology Taping to your Repertoire

Add Kinesiology Taping to your RepertoireAdd kinesiology taping to your repertoire. Stick to It By Caitlin Lukacs American Chiropractic Association News Think back to the Summer 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing. Remember Kerri Walsh, who won a gold medal in women’s beach volleyball? Remember the tape on her shoulder? That was kinesiology tape, and before the 2008 Olympics, the tape could have been considered a secret weapon of the sports medicine field. Now it’s much more well-known. Kinesiology tape isn’t just for athletes, though, says Greg Doerr, DC, CCSP, who practices in Cliffside Park, N.J. “The tape was made famous by high-profile Olympic athletes like Kerri Walsh, but it’s just as effective on the general population,” he adds. Darren Hancock, DC, CCSP, who practices in Chicago, also credits athletes for the spike in the popularity of kinesiology tape. “This particular kind of tape is utilized a lot in athletics, but about 85 percent of its use is non-athletic,” he explains. What Is Kinesiology Tape? Developed by Kenzo Kase, DC, kinesiology taping is a therapeutic taping method that utilizes a latex-free elastic tape. Dr. Kase’s brand is called Kinesio Tex® Tape, but especially since the Olympics, several other kinesiology tape companies have sprung up, including Rocktape, SpiderTech Tape and KT Tape. Whereas most athletic tape is stiff and is used to hold muscles or joints in one position, kinesiology tape is stretchy—to serve as a gentle reminder to your body to hold your shoulder in a certain way or to keep a kneecap in line while biking or running, explains Dr. Doerr. According to John Hanks, DC, CCSP, DABCO, who practices in Denver, Colo., there are four main functions of the tape:
  1. Correcting muscle function. Kinesiology tape supports muscles during movement, and research has shown that it can provide a bit more stamina than the muscle alone.1
  2. Improving circulation of blood and lymph. Studies show that the tape increases the flow of both blood and lymph, which can help in the treatment of lymphedema, mastectomy recovery and swelling, to name a few.2
  3. Correcting joint movement. The tape can be used to keep a joint, such as a knee, gliding and tracking smoothly while in use.
  4. Relieving pain. The tape has an analgesic effect, similar to what has been described as the “mother’s hand effect.”
Because of its many functions, kinesiology tape can be worn both during and after activity. Kerri Walsh, for example, wore the tape during her volleyball matches, and Lance Armstrong wore kinesiology tape on his knee during the Tour de France. Kinesiology tape also can come with different properties. Rocktape, for example, is designed to stretch and stick to skin better than the original kinesiology tape, which was developed more than 20 years ago. According to Greg Van den Dries, creator of Rocktape, and Steve Capobianco, DC, CCSP, who leads Rocktape training seminars, the company is currently working with researchers at Northumbria University in the United Kingdom to test the effect of the product on muscle and body fatigue, proprioception and performance enhancement, as well as exploring the use of Rocktape for everyday office ergonomics. Using Kinesiology Tape Tape worn during competition is applied in the same way as tape used during everyday activities. Additionally, kinesiology tape can be left on for several days at a time and can even be worn in the water as it’s water resistant. “Tape should stay on for about one day for pediatric and geriatric patients, and it can stay on for four to five days for the middle-age groups because you don’t have to worry so much about skin irritation with them,” explains Dr. Doerr. While kinesiology tape is very effective, it shouldn’t be relied on permanently. Experts agree that the tape isn’t a cure. Ted Forcum, DC, DACBSP, CSCS, president of ACA’s Council on Sport Injuries and Physical Fitness, who practices in Beaverton, Ore., says that the tape should be seen as a component of the rehabilitation process; it is not meant to replace a brace or a cast. As with any intervention, the use and duration of kinesiology tape is particular to each person’s individual needs. Some companies sell kinesiology tape in a roll and others offer pre-cut selections to fit on the shoulder, the knee or the back. The most common pre-cuts are “I” strips and “Y” strips, named for their resemblance to those letters. Oftentimes, the strips will be sold in kits designed to fit on a certain body part or for a specific injury. Training in Taping While it is possible to purchase the tape at any time, experts agree that DCs should not just buy kinesiology tape and begin using it on patients. There are courses and seminars offered through the tape companies that teach the principles behind the tape as well as the different taping techniques. You don’t need to be involved in the sports medicine field to take a seminar. “To really understand the full use of the tape, there is a seminar consisting of three weekends of courses,” says Dr. Hanks. “Most people who start using kinesiology tape decide to participate in this training.” The seminar, offered by the Kinesio® Taping Association, a select group of medical and administrative professionals dedicated to advancing the art and science of the Kinesio® Taping Method through education, clinical practice, research and community activities, is presented throughout the United States and Canada and taught by certified taping instructors (www.kinesiotaping.com). If you’re just getting started with kinesiology tape and don’t want to sign up for three weekends of training just yet, Dr. Doerr suggests taking an eight-hour class on pre-cut taping as a first step. All pre-cuts come with very precise directions, particularly when they are in a kit for a specific body part or injury, but the courses will give you the science behind the tape and help you to understand how and why it works, he explains. Dr. Doerr suggests chiropractor Kevin Jardine’s training sessions and videos (available at www.nucapmedical.com/training.html) because they give “wonderful explanations of how the tape works and why we apply it the way we do.” KTTape.com also features more than 20 step-by-step color instructions for different taping applications—from shin splints to carpal tunnel—as well as injury-specific how-to videos and tips for applying the tape for best performance. For those looking for hands-on training, the company offers two-day workshops that focus on clinical and therapeutic strategies, preparing the clinician to apply the tape systemically. (Visit www.kttape.com/education for more information or to register.) Rocktape offers one-day seminars that teach DCs a new functional taping method—one that covers rehab, performance enhancement and pregnancy applications. (http://rocktape.com/how-to-use). Rocktape is also working on incorporating its tape into the on-site clinics on all three Palmer College of Chiropractic campuses. In addition to the courses run by the kinesiology tape companies, Dr. Forcum is offering an online training course available at www.sportmedics.com/kinesiologytaping. Accessible to all health care providers, this 12-hour program features written text and video and covers the most common types of tape applications as well as the principles behind those applications. A future program will focus on the clinical perks and application of pre-cut kinesiology tape. Teaching Patients to Tape Because kinesiology tape is multifunctional—and relatively easy to apply, according to experts—DCs can teach their patients how to tape themselves, says Dr. Hanks. “If there is no problem, but a patient has a permanent injury, such as an arthritic knee, and that knee feels better with the tape on, I’ll certainly show him or her how to apply it,” says Dr. Doerr. “Or if an athletic patient competes four times a week, I will show her how to apply the tape, so that I don’t need to see her every time she has a game,” he continues. References 1. Yoshida A, Kahanov L. The effect of kinesio taping on lower trunk range of motions. Res Sports Med 2007;15(2):103-12. 2. Bialoszewski D, Wozniak W, Zarek S. Clinical efficacy of kinesiology taping in reducing edema of the lower limbs in patients treated with the ilizarov method—preliminary report. Ortop Traumatol Rehabil 2009;11(1):46-54.

Add Kinesiology Taping to your Repertoire

There are 147 products.

Genesis Pure Pad Bowling Ball Wipe Pad

$22.99

Make a pure shot every time with this premium ball wipe pad. Made of durable all natural genuine buffalo leather, the heavy knap of the Pure Pad™ will effortlessly absorb dirt and oil better than any microfiber towel or shammy ever could. It\'s been specifically sized to fit in the palm of your hand, so right away you\'ll notice the texture and feel the difference in weight. Every time you use it, you\'ll be reminded that this isn\'t just another ordinary bowling towel.

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Kinesio Clinical Video Series - Hand & Upper Extremity

$54.99

This DVD provides an overview of Kinesio Taping® applications for the hand and arm, including thumb and finger issues, carpal tunnel syndrome. golfers and tennis elbow and arthritis. Kinesio Taping can provide structural support or realignment, relief of pain and swelling and can improve mobility and function during recovery from these conditions.

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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Kinesio Clinical Video Series - Sports Medicine

$54.99

This DVD provides Kinesio Taping instructions for health professionals treating injuried athletes. Some of the best known uses of Kinesio Taping® are in the sports medicine field. Kinesio Taping can be utilized during all phases of sports injuries, including acute, sub-acute, chronic and rehabilitation. Relief of pain and swelling plus support and activation for injured or weakened muscles can allow patients to participate more fully in rehab and accelerate the recovery process.


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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Kinesio Clinical Video Series - Women's Health

$54.99

As patients and as athletes, women may experience any of the injuries and issues common in an active population, as well as additional challenges specific to the female physiology and life cycle. Kinesio Taping® provides valuable assistance for medication-free support and pain relief during the pre and post natal stages of pregnancy and throughout the years, helping women to maintain an active lifestyle. This DVD focuses on Kinesio Taping applications for menstrual or pregnancy-related issues as well as health issues more common in women


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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Caring for the Painful Thumb

$35.99

Caring for the Painful Thumb - More Than a Splint, was written by Jan Albrecht, an Occupational Therapist and Certified Hand Therapist. Written in terminololgy patients can understand with over 200 color illustrations, the book can be used as a teaching tool for both patients and therapists. A unique feature of Caring for the Painful Thumb is that it is two books in one: half the book is for the right hand and half for the left to help patients easily visualize mobilization and stabilization techniques. Includes step-by-step instructions for applying kinesiology tape to the thumb and CMC joint. 52 sturdy pages, spiral bound. This durable book can be used at the treatment table, or independently by the patient at the completion of therapy. Pages can be copied for handouts.

Kinesio Pro Scissors with Holster

$49.99

Kinesio® Pro Scissors have been specially engineered to be used in with Kinesio® Tex Tape or other brands of kinesiology tape.


Forged of high quality carbon stainless steel, Kinesio Pro scissors will remain razor sharp for years. These blades allow for precision cutting of the most intricate patterns, producing smooth edges and corners less likely to fray. A double florin-resin coating ensures that no adhesive residue transfers to the blades, ensuring that your first cut is as smooth as your last.


Included with each pair of Kinesio Pro Scissors is a Kinesio Pro Scissor Holster which can be either clipped to a waist band or looped through a belt, allowing you to keep your scissors with you at all times. Made of durable synthetic leather and reinforced with double-stitching, the holster will help keep your scissors protected, but at your fingertips when needed.

Kinesio Clinical Video Series - Foot & Ankle

$54.99

This DVD provides an overview of Kinesio Taping® applications for foot and ankle pain, injuries and dysfunction, including soft tissue and/or biomechanical issues. The complexity of the foot and ankle structures are simplified to provide the viewer with basic Kinesio Taping skills when addressing common, everyday lower limb issues.

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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Genesis Power Band Magnetic Wrist Band

$18.99 $22.95

The Genesis® Neoprene Power Band™ is an ultra-lightweight, durable magnetic aid providing complete unrestricted, flexible support. It helps to relieve tendonitis pain and prevent carpal tunnel syndrome while keeping your wrist therapeutically warm. The easy to use strap features a velcro tension adjustment to fit most bowlers.

  • Embroidered Genesis® logos
  • Easy velcro tension adjustment for total comfort
  • Lightweight, stretchy neoprene material
  • Increases circulation & rejuvenates cells
  • Helps balance the nervous system
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Kinesio Clinical Video Series - Active Mature

$54.99

This DVD is for active individuals over 50 or health professionals working with this population. Being healthy and active can maintain fitness and vitality over the years. Physical activity can help manage health challenges such as arthritis, osteoporosis, or pain due to changes in posture or weakness. Maintaining a daily level of activity can become more challenging with age and may be compounded by illness, fatigue or fear of falling. Learning to use the Kinesio Taping® Method to manage day to day health problems is a low-cost approach to maintaining or improving health.


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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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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Kinesio Clinical Video Series - Scar & Edema

$54.99

Recovery from wounds after injuries or surgery can be complicated by swelling and the development of scar tissue. Kinesio Taping post-wound can enhance lymphatic flow to decrease swelling, leading to pain relief and increased rehabilitation potential. Management of scars is often overlooked when treating pain, swelling, decreased range of motion, contractures, and cosmetic appearance of the skin. Scar tissue can significantly disrupt how our bodies function. Using Kinesio® Tex Tape is one of the easiest and inexpensive ways of treating scars. Its unique elastic qualities not only assist scars to mature, allowing the collagen to become more parallel, but it can also assist scars to release adhesions. Both new and old scars can be treated with Kinesio Tape with changes noted as early as 24 hours in mobility, adhesion and color. Scar management with Kinesio Tex Tape is gentle with quick and significant results.

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Kinesio Clinical Video Series - Sport & Fitness

$54.99

This DVD is for athletes or health professionals working with the athletic population. Instructions are provided for use of the Kinesio Taping® Method in the treatment of a variety of acute and chronic orthopedic injuries commonly seen in an athletic or active populations. By utilizing Kinesio® Tex Tape, patients have reported a decrease in pain and swelling as well as quicker recovery times and a faster return to their original level of performance.

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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Kinesio Clinical Video Series - Chiropractic & Osteopathic

$54.99

This DVD provides training in the use of Kinesiology Taping as an adjunct to chiropractic or osteopathic medicine treatments. The Kinesio Taping® Method was originally developed in a manual therapy setting and continues to be a valuable tool to extend and prolong the benefits of treatments. It may be used as an adjunct or stand-alone treatment to address pain, edema or stiffness. In addition, it may give the physician a longer acting tool to help correct misalignment and assist in neuromuscular reeducation. Among the benefits of Kinesio Taping is its ability to promote self-healing without the use of medication.


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.

Availability: Sold Out