Kinesiology tape or kinesiotape works by gently lifting the skin, which can improve blood flow, reduce swelling, and support muscles and joints.
It’s thought to work through a combination of mechanical and neurological effects, influencing how the body senses pain and movement.
Mechanical Effects:
- Lifting the Skin:
Kinesiology tape is designed with a degree of elasticity similar to human skin, and when applied, it recoils slightly, lifting the skin away from underlying tissues. - Improved Fluid Flow:
This lifting action can create more space for blood and lymphatic fluids to circulate, potentially reducing swelling and inflammation. - Joint Support:
By slightly lifting the skin around a joint, the tape can help create more space within the joint itself, potentially reducing irritation and improving joint mechanics. - Muscle Support:
The tape’s elastic properties can provide gentle support to muscles, helping them contract more effectively and return to their resting position.
Neurological Effects:
- Pain Modulation:
Kinesiology tape is thought to stimulate nerve endings in the skin, which can influence how the nervous system perceives pain signals. - Muscle Activation/Deactivation:
The tape can be applied in different ways to either help activate or deactivate muscles, potentially aiding in muscle re-education or addressing muscle imbalances. - Improved Proprioception:
By stimulating nerve endings, kinesiology tape may also improve the body’s awareness of its position and movement in space, potentially improving posture and movement patterns.
