Colorful kinesiology tape has become ubiquitous in sports, from professional athletes to weekend warriors. But does this elastic tape actually work, or is it just a colorful placebo? At M.O. Therapy in Markham, we use taping as one tool among many, based on evidence and individual patient needs.
What Is Kinesiology Tape?
The Product
Kinesiology tape is an elastic, cotton-based tape with adhesive properties designed to mimic the weight and texture of human skin.
Characteristics:
- Stretches to 140-180% of original length
- Breathable and water-resistant
- Can be worn for days
- Various colors (same properties)
- Latex-free options available
History
Development:
- Created in 1970s by Dr. Kenzo Kase
- Originally called Kinesio Tape
- Gained popularity in 2008 Olympics
- Now many brands available
- Widely used in sports and rehabilitation
Proposed Mechanisms
What It's Supposed to Do
Claimed Benefits:
- Reduce pain
- Decrease swelling
- Support muscles
- Improve proprioception
- Enhance performance
- Aid recovery
How It Might Work
Theories:
- Lifts skin to improve blood flow
- Provides sensory input (proprioception)
- Affects fascia and superficial tissue
- Psychological effect (confidence)
- May reduce pain perception
The Evidence
What Research Shows
Mixed Results:
- Some studies show benefit
- Others show no effect beyond placebo
- Difficult to blind in studies
- Individual responses vary
Better Evidence For:
- Pain reduction (short-term)
- Proprioceptive effects
- Psychological confidence
- May support other treatments
Less Evidence For:
- Muscle strength enhancement
- Significant swelling reduction
- Long-term structural changes
- Performance enhancement
The Placebo Factor
Important Consideration:
- Placebo effects are real effects
- If it helps you feel better, that matters
- Confidence affects performance
- Part of comprehensive care
Applications
Pain Management
May Help With:
- Muscle pain
- Joint pain
- Post-injury discomfort
- Chronic pain conditions
- Movement-related pain
Injury Support
Used For:
- Sprains and strains
- Muscle injuries
- Tendon problems
- Post-surgical support
- Returning to activity
Performance
Athletes Use For:
- Muscle support during activity
- Confidence during competition
- Recovery between events
- Ongoing injury management
Taping Techniques
Basic Cuts
I Strip:
- Simple straight strip
- Most versatile
- Applied along muscles
- Various tensions
Y Strip:
- Split at one end
- Wraps around muscle
- Used for larger areas
- Common for calves, thighs
X Strip:
- Crossed in middle
- Covers joints
- Multidirectional support
- Used for knees, elbows
Fan/Web:
- Multiple thin strips
- Used for swelling
- Lymphatic drainage application
- Lighter tension
Application Principles
Proper Application:
- Clean, dry skin
- Round tape corners
- Apply with appropriate tension
- Rub to activate adhesive
- Apply anchor ends with no stretch
Tension Guidelines:
- Anchors: No stretch (0%)
- Muscle support: Light stretch (15-25%)
- Ligament support: Moderate stretch (50-75%)
- Swelling: Light to no stretch
When to Use Kinesiology Tape
May Be Helpful
Consider For:
- Returning to activity after injury
- Managing minor ongoing issues
- Confidence during performance
- As part of treatment plan
- When other interventions limited
Not a Substitute
Don't Replace:
- Proper medical evaluation
- Appropriate rest when needed
- Other proven treatments
- Exercise and rehabilitation
How to Apply
General Steps
Application Process:
- Clean skin thoroughly
- Cut tape to desired shape
- Round corners to prevent peeling
- Remove paper backing
- Apply anchors first, no stretch
- Apply middle section with appropriate tension
- Rub to activate adhesive
- Avoid creases and bubbles
Tips for Success
Better Results:
- Apply 30-60 minutes before activity
- Avoid lotions or oils on skin
- Press firmly to activate glue
- Don't stretch anchors
- Remove slowly when done
Removal
Safe Removal:
- Remove slowly
- Pull along skin, not away
- Use oil if needed
- Don't rip off quickly
- Watch for skin irritation
Common Applications
Shoulder
For Support:
- Pain with movement
- Rotator cuff support
- Postural reminder
- Return to activity
Knee
For Support:
- Patellofemoral pain
- General knee pain
- Swelling management
- Activity support
Back
For Support:
- Muscle tension
- Postural awareness
- Low back support
- Upper back tension
Ankle
For Support:
- Post-sprain return
- Stability concerns
- Swelling management
Precautions
When to Avoid
Contraindications:
- Open wounds
- Skin infections
- Active rashes
- Allergy to adhesive
- Fragile skin
- Over malignancy
- Deep vein thrombosis
Possible Reactions
Watch For:
- Skin irritation
- Allergic reaction
- Increased pain
- Blistering (rare)
If Occurs:
- Remove tape immediately
- Clean skin
- Allow healing
- Consult provider
Kinesiology Tape vs. Athletic Tape
Kinesiology Tape
Characteristics:
- Elastic/stretchy
- Worn for days
- Allows full movement
- Provides sensory input
- Various applications
Athletic/Rigid Tape
Characteristics:
- Non-elastic
- Restricts movement
- Removed after activity
- Structural support
- Specific applications (ankle, fingers)
Different Uses:
- KT tape for movement support
- Athletic tape for restriction
- Sometimes used together
- Depends on goals
Our Approach
At M.O. Therapy
How We Use Taping:
- Part of comprehensive treatment
- Not standalone therapy
- Combined with exercise
- Individual assessment
- Realistic expectations
When We Recommend:
- Appropriate conditions
- As adjunct treatment
- For return to activity
- Patient preference
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the color of tape matter? No, colors are purely aesthetic. All colors have the same properties. Choose based on preference.
How long can I wear kinesiology tape? Most tapes can be worn for 3-5 days. Remove sooner if skin irritation occurs or tape becomes loose.
Can I shower or swim with tape on? Most kinesiology tapes are water-resistant. Pat dry after swimming or showering. Tape may loosen faster with repeated water exposure.
Will tape fix my injury? Tape is a supportive measure, not a cure. It may help manage symptoms while your body heals, but proper treatment and rehabilitation are essential.
Can I apply tape myself? For simple applications, yes. Complex applications or specific conditions benefit from professional application and education.
Try Taping
Curious if kinesiology tape might help you? Our team at M.O. Therapy in Markham can assess your needs and provide appropriate taping as part of your treatment.
Contact Us:
- Call (905) 201-5827
- Book online
- Direct billing available
Get the support you need, evidence-informed and professionally applied.