Kinesiotape aka SpiderTech, KT Tape, RockTape and numerous other names/brands
This past weekend was the 2012 CrossFit Games and we noticed a good amount of the athletes were wearing kinesiotape. Ever since the 2008 Bejing Olympics this tape has been used widely in sporting events. From bright colors to cool looking designs this tape is not a fashion statement, it actually has some pretty cool effects. What does this funky looking tape actually do and how does it work?
Although both athletic tape and kinesiotape provide stability and support to an area, kinesiotape has the same thickness and elasticity as human skin, therefore it does not restrict any range of motion. What makes the tape pretty cool is its ability to act like a rubberband. It stretches with the body and then recoils, which helps injured tissues. Now let’s talk about how it actually does help these injured tissues.
For support: The tape is applied in one direction, following the muscle. It improves tissue function and distributes the load away from inflamed or damaged muscles and tendons, protecting tissues from further injury. The healing process is also effected by the tape because it aids in proper blood flow and lymphatic drainage. The slight pull on the skin created by kinesiotape allows drainage and flow to occur, an important factor when swelling or inflammation are present.
We all know how stubborn athletes can be when it comes to not participating in their sport due to some nagging injury. Kinesiotape can help keep you in the gym, while facilitating the healing process at the same time.
http://www.kttape.com/what-is-kt-tape/
photo courtesy of Kurt Garceau
