Taping, as the name implies, uses different types of tape (McConnell, Kinetic, etc.) to effect the function of a given joint or
muscle in a certain way. There are several types of tape, ranging from very firm and inflexible to very dynamic. Many such things can easily be found on the internet; however, many different types and techniques exist, and applying the correct one is half the battle!
What can it treat?
- Tendinitis and tendinosis
- Joint instability
- Patellofemoral tracking issues
- Muscle spasticity
- Postural asymmetry
- Sports injuries or prevention
- Arthritis
- And many more….
Clinical effects:
Depending on which type is used and how it is applied, the goals of taping are varied. It might be simply a tactile cue to help a patient remember a specific movement pattern. It might be direct support to help assist with the tracking of a patella or the stability of an ankle. Taping techniques are also available to reduce muscle spasticity and even provide a decompression strategy to a specific area of tissue.