Kinesio Taping

Kinesio Taping Method is a therapeutic tool utilised by the rehabilitation specialists in all programs (paediatric, geriatric, orthopaedic, neurological, oncology and others) and levels of care (acute care, inpatient rehabilitation, outpatient, home care and Day Rehab). The idea of using elastic tape to mimic the therapist's hands was first presented by Dr Kenzo Kase in the 1970s. Since then it became the modality used in pain management, soft tissue injury, tissues and joints malalignment, oedema, and more. Kinesio Taping Method utilises four types of Kinesio Tex Tapes, each one with specific properties designed to use on fragile skin, sensitive skin or applied with higher tensions. Kinesio

inesio Tex Tape contains either 100% cotton and elastic fibres or it can be a blend of polyester and cotton with elastic fibres. The latter is a preferable choice for Kinesio Taping application on sensitive skin when higher tensions on the tape are needed for the desired outcome. The tape is applied on the paper backing using an acrylic adhesive and with 10-15% stretch. This amount of stretch is used with some Kinesio Taping techniques and is referred to as "paper off tension". Other characteristics of Kinesio Tex Tape include:

Ability to stretch to 120-140% of its original length
Recoil back to the anchor that is applied without stretch
Heat activated adhesive
Hypoallergenic dyes that make the tape safe for most users
Latex-free
Drying time after being wet is about 5-10 minutes
Can be worn for several days

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