Phila Massages

Kinesio Tape for Athletes: A Help, or Just Hype?

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Edited to add by Phila Massages (2015):

Due to the limited scientific evidence supporting its efficacy, Phila Massages no longer offers Kinesiotaping as a service. 

Phila massages strives to be science-based and always tries to stay on top of current scientific findings for your safety and to maximize the results of our sessions!


What does Kinesio Taping do?

Kinesio Taping gives support and stability to your joints and muscles without affecting circulation and range of motion. It is used for preventive maintenance, edema and to treat pain.

Kinesio Taping is a technique based on the body’s own natural healing process.

This Kinesio Taping exhibits its efficacy through the activation of neurological and circulatory systems. This method basically stems from the science of Kinesiology, hence the name “Kinesio”. Muscles are not only attributed to the movements of the body but also control the circulation of venous and lymph flows, body temperature, etc. Therefore, the failure of the muscles to function properly induces various kinds of symptoms.

Global acceptance through use on Olympic Athletes.

For the first 10 years, orthopedists, chiropractors, acupuncturists and other medical practitioners were the main users of Kinesio Taping. Soon thereafter, Kinesio Taping was used by the Japanese Olympic volleyball players and word quickly spread to other athletes. Today, Kinesio Taping is used by medical practitioners and athletes around the world. The Kinesio Taping Method is applied over muscles to reduce pain and inflammation, relax overused tired muscles, and to support muscles in movement on a 24hr/day basis. It is non-restrictive type of taping which allows for full range of motion. In contrast, traditional sports’ taping is wrapped around a joint strictly for stabilization and support during a sporting event obstructing the flow of bodily fluids as an UNDESIRABLE side-effect.

Versatile treatment options.

Kinesio Tape is used for anything from headaches to foot problems and everything in between. Examples include: muscular facilitation or inhibition in pediatric patients, carpal tunnel syndrome, lower back strain/pain (subluxations, herniated disc), knee conditions, shoulder conditions, hamstring, groin injury, rotator cuff injury, whiplash, tennis elbow, plantar fasciitis, patella tracking, pre and post surgical edema, ankle sprains, athletic preventative injury method, and as a support method.

Does it work?

Click on the two videos below.  Some interesting views. http://vimeo.com/47317523http://vimeo.com/45164283 The tape was invented by Japanese chiropractor Kenzo Kase in the 1970s. The U.K. web site for Kinesio tape claims it can alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, relax muscles, enhance performance, and help with rehabilitation as well as supporting muscles during a sporting event.

Evidence lacking.

There has not been conclusive scientific or medical evidence to confirm the effectiveness of the tape. A review of evidence from 10 research papers for Kinesio tape to treat and prevent sports injuries was published in the journal Sports Medicine in February.  Some say it is purely a placebo effect . What are your thoughts ?? Share with us. All agree that you should have a person who has been trained to know how to place the tape to actually treat the area of concern.  At Phila Massages two of us are certified in Kinesio taping techniques.  Ask about it the next time you are in for a massage.


Edited to add by Phila Massages (2015):

Due to the limited scientific evidence supporting its efficacy, Phila Massages no longer offers Kinesiotaping as a service. 

Phila massages strives to be science-based and always tries to stay on top of current scientific findings for your safety and to maximize the results of our sessions!

Read a more thorough review on the evidence lacking here: https://www.painscience.com/articles/kinesio-taping.php or https://www.massagefitnessmag.com/whats-the-news/what-does-current-evidence-say-about-the-effectiveness-of-kinesio-taping


References:

  1. http://www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/features/kinesio-tape-athletes-help-hype

  2. www.kinesiotaping.com/

  3. www.kinesiotape.ca/whatitdoes.htm

  4. www.cnn.com/2012/08/10/health/olympics-kinesio-tape

This article and/or video are for educational purposes only; do not attempt without your physician’s clearance. If you are in pain or injured, see your physician.

Copyright © Vidal Sports LLC 2018


Copyright © Vidal Sports LLC 2020
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