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Kinesiology Taping for Orthopedic Conditions: Summary
Treatment Effects Tape is applied over neuromyofascial adhesions created by piezoelectric currents through the body. These currents occur in the cells and are developed by repetitive movements or prolonged posturing. Piezoelectric currents stimulate fibroblasts, leading to excess collagen and decreased adaptability in the tissue, hindering the muscle’s ability to move. Kinesiology Taping Effects • Decompress tissue (skin and superficial fascial), allowing for: ○ Decompression of cutaneous nerves, which reduces pain ○ Decompression of superficial capillaries to improve blood flow ○ Decompression of lymphatic vessels to improve edema (chronic > acute) ○ Decompression of muscles to improve gliding, elongate for improved ROM, and improve muscle contraction Application Principles Getting Started • Skin should be free of oil/lotions ○ May need to clean skin or shave an area if very hairy • For orthopedic conditions, place target tissue on stretch • Measure the area prior to cutting the tape (once in the stretched/long position) Tape Preparation • Measure and cut appropriate length • Round the corners to help prevent rolling or catching on clothes • Rub to warm and activate adhesion once placed on the skin Basic Taping Applications • “I” cut—most common, practitioner simply cuts section of tape from the roll • “Y” cut—can be used over larger areas (not covered in this course) • “Fan” cut–good for lymphatic drainage and swelling
Tape Removal • Stabilize skin before pulling on tape • Pull tape off in the direction of hair growth • Easier when wet or if an oil is applied ○ Can be easier to take off in the shower if patient is completing themselves Taping for Decompression/Nerve Entrapment • Patient should be positioned with tension on the muscle, fascia, nerves, and skin • Utilize the “I” strip with ~20% stretch • Apply perpendicular to the muscle fibers or nerves (cross-fiber decompression) • Rationale: ○ Decompress fascia → improve scar mobility ○ Decompress cutaneous nerves → improve pain Taping for Lymphatic Drainage • Use for acute injuries to help with swelling • Patient should be positioned with tension on the muscle, fascia, and skin (but pain- free ROM) • Utilize the “fan” strip with ~20% stretch • Anchor proximal to treatment area, and expand the segments distally • Rationale ○ Decompress skin → open lymphatic channels ○ Decompress cutaneous nerves → decrease pain Taping for Acute Injuries • Primary goal: Decrease swelling using fan strips • Secondary goal: Improve stability
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