Kinesiology taping is generally safe for everyone to use from children to the elderly, from athletes to the sedentary. It is typically but not exclusively used in conjunction with another treatment, such as massage, to get the maximum effect. The tape is applied to the inflamed or injured area and causes a lifting effect to the skin that allows blood to flow to the site to aid healing and lymph to drain out, decreasing inflammation. The stretch within the tape allows for full movement and flexibility, whilst maintaining a stability to the area.
Kinesiology taping began in the 1970s by a Japanese Chiropractor, Dr Kenzo Kase. He wanted to develop a therapeutic sports tape that supported muscles but where the range of movement wasn’t compromised. After years of research alongside product engineers, he developed the Kinesio Taping technique that reached worldwide status at the 1988 Seoul Olympics and is now a common place practice for many therapists.
Benefits:
– Provides support for weak or injured muscles
– Reduces pain levels
– Helps to correct postural imbalances
– Reduces swelling by allowing for greater lymphatic drainage
– Encourages blood flow to the area, helping to speed up the recovery process
– Can remain active whilst wearing the tape
– Stabilises the area, without restricting movement
£10 per treatment