I am not ashamed to admit that I have become somewhat of a Kinesio tape connoisseur over the last few years. Much of my time has been spent on determining the most effective taping techniques, and which brand of tape satisfies my rigorous selection process best. People often ask me about the functionality of this material and the science behind it. My response is somewhat generalized and is a concoction of research-based evidence and patient feedback. The one concrete summation I can attest to is that there is a pain reduction element to almost every application I administer. The questions is, are these diminished discomfort levels a result of the physiological changes triggered by the tape and its specific application or are they a product of the placebo effect?
What is Kinesio tape and how does it work?
The fabric of the tape consists of a blend of cotton and Lycra with a general ratio of 98:2 in the lion’s share of brands. Kase 1994 and Kase et al. 2003 believe that Kinesio tape is unique compared with other types of tape because the elasticity allows for elongation 130%–140% of its resting state, and is approximately the same weight and thickness of skin. Its pliability makes it effortless to apply, and the combination of materials is ideal for lasting durability of up to seven days. Along with this, the tape is fast drying so sweating and showering is not problematic.
According to SPORTTAPE UK, the official Kinesio tape of team Great Britain Olympics 2012, Kinesio tape stands behind two major assumptions:
- Free movement of lymphatic fluid decreases friction between underlying tissues which in turn decreases pressure on pain receptors. Pain relief is then instant.
- Improved micro-circulation helps facilitate the removal of the metabolism by products.
The reason I use the word assumption is because the theory of Kinesio tape isn’t strongly supported by evidence-based material. In fact, there is little to suggest that this pseudo scientific modality holds any benefits. A spattering of pilot and case studies exists, but these are hardly significant enough to validate Kinesio taping as a viable medical tool.
So why do we continue to use Kinesio tape?
As an educated professional, I have been trained to use evidence-based material to support my methods of practice. However, I also was pushed to challenge theories with critical analysis and develop successful treatments through experimentation. Kinesio taping has been a great aid in reducing two detrimental symptoms in the healing process:
- Pain
- Inflammation through lymphatic drainage
The workforce clientele I service at UPS are hardened, tough individuals who suffer from the rigors of their day-to-day work life. Many of them are crying out for reductions in pain and inflammation. The majority of the ailments successfully treated with Kinesio tape are untreated injuries or compensatory adjustments from the changes in the biomechanics of the body. Some of the common applications I use Kinesio tape for are:
- Achilles Tendinitis
- Patellofemoral pain/Anterior knee pain
- Shoulder postural corrections
- Lumbar aches
- Lateral Epicondylitis
Other benefits of Kinesio tape for employees
- Provides support to muscles, tendons and ligaments that may be damaged
- Has an easy application process
- Is durable and one application can last up to five days
- Instills the patient with confidence to be able to complete their daily tasks efficiently and effectively
- Prevents lost work time through injury and subsequently helps avoid any financial loss through income reduction
- Builds a bond of care between employer and employee by illustrating that the employer is investing in the employee’s well-being
What are the benefits of Kinesio tape for employers?
- Employees have less pain, discomfort and inflammation
- Workloads are managed more effectively and completed in a timely manner
- Company target levels are achieved
- Employee and employer relations are improved
- Working environment is harmonious and productive
- Cost effective means of injury care
Although a roll of tape can be costly, especially for the higher quality brands, it pales in significance to the cost the employer has to bare when an injury is reported and the time that is lost. So even if the Kinesio tape has no scientific methodology to base itself on, it really doesn’t matter as long as the employee sees resolution to their injury and the employer maintains a cost-effective, well-run operation.
So what is the underlying reason for the success of Kinesio tape?
According to Kase et al.1996; Goo 2001; Maruko 1999; Murray and Hosk 2001; Ogura 1998; Oliveria 1999; Vorhies 1999; and Wallis 1999, Kinesio tape has been theorized to be an effective treatment to restore muscle function and reduce pain. At this juncture, it is exactly that, only a theory. However, when I continually receive positive feedback from my clients, I can conclude that the placebo effect must have some influence in this. Several factors can be held accountable in creating the belief that the patient has in Kinesio tape. Many of these are derived from psychosocial sources such as:
- Peer pressure or peer validation
- Professional sports athletes’ endorsement
- Acclimatization to the tape and fear that removal will have negative consequences
- It is aesthetically pleasing to applicant
The bottom line is Kinesio tape, whether through physiological or psychological means, has positive effects on reducing the severity of the patient’s complaint. Its benefits are appreciated by both employers and employees which only aids in enhancing the already growing reputation it has.
