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Kinesiology Taping Application

Therapeutic elastic adhesive tape applied to skin for musculoskeletal support, edema reduction and pain management.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Fizik Tedavi ve Rehabilitasyon department. Book Appointment →

What is Kinesiology Taping Application?

Kinesiology taping (KT) was developed in the 1970s by Japanese chiropractor Kenzo Kase and uses elastic cotton tape with acrylic adhesive that stretches 30-40% of resting length. Application techniques include muscle facilitation/inhibition, ligament/tendon support, fascial correction, lymphatic drainage (fan-shaped Y-cut) and space correction.

Proposed mechanisms include cutaneous mechanoreceptor stimulation modulating nociceptive input via gate control, lifting of skin to facilitate microcirculation and lymphatic flow, proprioceptive feedback enhancing muscle activation and biomechanical realignment. Evidence is mixed: short-term pain relief and proprioception benefits are documented, but effects on strength and long-term outcomes are modest and adjunctive.

Applications include patellofemoral pain syndrome, lateral epicondylitis, Achilles tendinopathy, low back pain, post-mastectomy lymphedema, postural correction in scoliosis and pediatric cerebral palsy. Contraindications include open wounds, dermatitis, fragile skin, allergy to adhesive, deep vein thrombosis and unstable fractures. Application technique requires training; tape is typically worn 3-5 days.

Symptoms

Patellofemoral knee pain
Lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow)
Achilles tendinopathy
Plantar fasciitis
Postpartum diastasis recti support
Lymphedema after axillary lymph node dissection
Postural muscle imbalance

Risk Factors

Sports overuse injuries
Repetitive occupational strain
Poor postural alignment
Postsurgical edema
Pediatric motor dysfunction
Pregnancy-related musculoskeletal pain
Chronic functional pain

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Skin reaction or contact dermatitis
  • Worsening pain despite taping
  • Concern for fracture or DVT
  • Wound or infection in tape area
  • Allergic reaction or itching

Treatment Methods

01
Pre-application skin assessment
02
Selection of technique (facilitation/inhibition/lymphatic/space)
03
Tape cutting and rounded corners to prevent peeling
04
Application with appropriate stretch percentage
05
Patient education on showering and tape duration
06
Replace tape after 3-5 days or symptoms changes
07
Combined with physical therapy and exercise
08
Patch test for adhesive sensitivity
09
Avoid in open wounds, DVT and fragile skin
10
Outcome reassessment at follow-up

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Fizik Tedavi ve Rehabilitasyon department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Fizik Tedavi ve Rehabilitasyon Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.