Does taping really work?
Ask. Dr. Green
Taping has really been getting a lot of press lately. With over 50+ types of kinesiology tape on the market, the biggest question is does it actually work?
Kinesiology tape was developed in the 1970s by Dr. Kase to provide support without limiting mobility like traditional athletic tape. Taping has been used for sports performance, scar mobility, joint support, and to improve circulation. Now the tape comes in tons of colors, sizes, and can be used almost everywhere on the body.
The tape provides a short-term effect on our sensory receptors that are present in skin, muscles, and fascia by decompressing the tissue. The decompression changes the way the brain perceives pain. If the brain receives a different signal, then it will change its response.
Tape is appropriate for race day and training for a competition; however, based on the short-term relief, individuals can become “addicted” to the band-aid effect. If you continue to mask the pain and not address the underlying issue, the issue will continue to manifest.
For the best results, research has shown utilization of kinesiology tape as an adjunct with rehabilitation to reduce reliance.