The original product, Kinesio tape or Kinesio Tex Tape, was invented in the late 1970s by Dr. Kenzo Kase, a Japanese chiropractor who sought a tape that gave support but didn't limit movement as other sporting tapes do.

You've probably seen it: strips of colorful tape stretched in patterns across shoulders, knees, backs, and abs if you've ever attended a volleyball game or a professional bicycle race. Kinesiology tape is a therapeutic tape that is carefully applied to the body to give support, relieve pain, and increase performance.

How does kinesiology tape work?

Kinesio tape was manufactured by Kase using a proprietary cotton and nylon combination. It's made to replicate the elasticity of your skin, allowing you to move freely. The medical-grade adhesive on the tape is also water-resistant and strong enough to stay on for three to five days, even if you exercise or shower.

When you apply the tape to your body, it recoils slightly, raising your skin softly. This is thought to aid in the creation of a microscopic gap between your skin and the tissues beneath it.

What is kinesiology tape used for?

Treats injuries

Kinesiology taping is occasionally used as part of an overall treatment plan for persons who have been injured by physical therapists. According to the American Physical Therapy Association, kinesiology taping is most effective when combined with other treatments like manual therapy.

Supports weak zones

Kinesiology tape can also be used to provide additional support to muscles or joints that require it. Kinesiology taping may be beneficial if you have patellofemoral stress syndrome, IT band friction syndrome, or Achilles tendinitis.

Kinesiology tape, unlike white medical or athletic tape, allows you to move properly. Indeed, some research suggests that it can improve movement and endurance. The use of Kinesio tape on weary muscles has been demonstrated to improve performance in athletes in studies.

Re-educates muscles

Kinesiology tape can aid in the re-training of muscles that have lost function or have become accustomed to an undesirable functioning pattern.

Kinesiology tapes, for example, can be used to improve head and neck posture. In addition, a 2017 study suggests that it could be used to help stroke patients improve their walking. 

This could be because the unusual sensation of tape on your skin makes you more conscious of how you're standing or moving, according to physical therapists.

Enhances performance

When competing in special events, some athletes employ kinesiology taping to help them reach optimal performance and avoid injury. Every time they run a marathon, a lot of runners utilize this tape.

Manages scars

Although kinesiology tape should never be used on an open wound, there is some scientific evidence that it can help scars look better in the long run following surgery or injury. This is a treatment that you should definitely discuss with a doctor beforehand.

Does it really work?

For some people, the answer is yes. However, experts require further investigation because what is currently available is inconclusive. According to some research, there is no difference between kinesiology tape and placebos or "sham taping."

Some studies reveal only minor or moderate improvements. According to numerous research, kinesiology taping is most effective when combined with traditional therapy approaches.

How to apply kinesiology tape

Before attempting to apply kinesiology tape on your own, you should always speak with a physical therapist who is trained in its application.

A physical therapist will demonstrate how to apply the tape in the pattern that will best help your problem. Depending on your aims, tape can be applied in an X, Y, I, or fan design. Stabilization and decompression strips may be required.

Before you try it at home, your physical therapist can see your practice applying and removing the tape.

Although the usefulness of kinesiology tape has not been thoroughly studied, it may provide support, enhance circulation, reduce pain, and improve the way your joints and muscles function.

You should see a physical therapist before using it, as it is most effective when used in conjunction with other therapy options.