Therapeutic banding or kinesio taping is an ingenious tool in the hands of physiotherapists and it is an elastic, self-adhesive tape that is applied directly to the skin. It is a descendant of the stable classic taping and its use is increasing rapidly in recent years, as it is now part of physiotherapy rehabilitation.

​

Kinesio taping is designed in such a way that it mimics the properties of human skin . It has about the same thickness as the skin and can be stretched 30-40% in addition to its original length. It does not contain latex, so it is hypoallergenic and its glue is 100% acrylic and is activated by heat (specifically by friction). Its cotton fibers are absorbent and allow it to be worn even in the bathroom or pool, without coming out and needing to be repositioned.

The recommended application time is 3-4 days.

It can be applied to any muscle or any joint and has the following effects:

​

1. Reduction of pain. This is achieved as the tape increases the subcutaneous space (the space under the skin) and activates a mechanism, which reduces the action of pain receptors.

2. Normalizes muscle function. The tape is particularly effective in repairing and normalizing the muscles that suffer from injury or overuse. In cases of overuse, the muscles are injured by receiving heavy loads and become inflamed. Thus, the tape provides support to the specific muscles and helps their function.

3. Corrects poor joint alignment and restores susceptibility. Poor alignment in a joint can be caused by muscle imbalances and excessively increased or decreased elasticity in that structure. The tape corrects this alignment by "repositioning" the joint in its correct and functional position and thus allowing it to move normally.

4. Improvement of lymph and blood flow and consequently reduction of edema. The space between the skin and the muscles in some cases is reduced due to the retention of lymph or blood in the vessels. The tape gives space under the skin, allowing these stagnant fluids to circulate normally in the area and preventing / reducing swelling.

​

Types of applications

Kinesio taping is applied in different ways, depending on what we want to achieve.

• With maximum tension (up to 100%) in the tape, for stabilization of joints

• With little to no tendency for muscle relaxation and peritoneal dilation

• Cut into stripes and without tension in the direction of the lymph to reduce swelling in the affected area

• Applications in sports

• In injuries, fractures, sprains, etc.

• In hematomas

• In dislocations, such as that of the patella

• For muscle relaxation

The companies offer a variety of colors in kinesio tapes. However, different colors do not indicate a different trend, the trend remains the same. The reasons are purely aesthetic, as well as for improving the psychology of the patient.  

The application of elastic bands is done exclusively by physiotherapists specializing in this field.

​

​