Around ten years ago you might have noticed that some Japanese athletes entered their particular arenas wrapped up in colorful bands of tape. This was not a decorative or artistic statement, but was a demonstration of the use of Kinesio Tape. This is something that evolved out of the science of Kinesiology, and which is designed to work with the natural movement of the muscles to reduce pain, improve function, allow for relaxation, and even to prevent injury.
The way Kinesio Tape works is quite fascinating. It is extremely thin and flexible, and is comparable to bare human skin. It does not rely on latex or medications of any kind, and is mostly comprised of a very pliant cotton fabric. Once it has been on the skin of a patient for three hours or more they can begin to perform rigorous physical activity or even be fully submerged under water. The Kinesio Tape will remain affixed to the body for up to four days, and will move with the body without impeding natural ranges of motion or movement in any way.
Instead, the Kinesio Tape will actually lift and support the soft tissue to which it is attached, and in this way it can actually improve circulation and lymphatic flow. The Kinesiologists believe that muscle movement has a direct relation to the venous and lymphatic systems of the body. When there is an inadequate or improper movement in the muscle, this can create pain and problems with other areas.
The tapes are applied in order to give support and stability to the muscles and the joints, but to also prevent any disruption to natural circulation and movement. They use the body’s abilities for self-help and healing to great effect, and are believed to impact the neurological and circulatory systems when properly applied.
Today, the tapes are being used by many medical experts far outside of Japan, and are seen in the offices of chiropractors, therapists, orthopedic experts, and even with pediatric specialists. They are used for the arms, legs, neck, shoulders, and back among other muscle groups, and treat everything from edema and carpal tunnel symptoms, to groin injuries and problems with joints too. Many post-surgical patients will have them applied to help with swelling, and some athletes rely on them as a form of preventative medicine as well.
If you are interested in alternative healing, you will want to see if the Kinesio methods are of use to you.