KT Tape

What is KT Tape and how does it work?

Kinesio Taping (K Taping) is a taping method that uses a uniquely designed elastic tape to provide therapeutic effects to the body for the entire time that the tape is worn. KT Tape can be worn during the acute or chronic stage of an injury and can also be used as part of injury rehabilitation in conjunction with other modalities (heat, ice, exercise, manual therapy, electrical stimulation). KT Tape enhances the function of many different physiological systems including skin, fascia, muscles, joints, and the circulatory/lymphatic system.

KT Tape provides 140% elasticity, which is the same elasticity as human skin. This allows the tape to flex comfortably with the body’s tissue and allow full range of motion of joints while still providing therapeutic effects. KT Tape uses medical adhesive which offers a balance of stick and release. It’s strong enough to stay on during sweat, rain, and mud, but comes off without causing pain.

This tape can be used for different injuries and depending on how it is applied; it supports, enables, or inhibits soft tissue. The “skin like” recoiling factor of KT Tape augments tissue function and distributes forces away from inflamed or damaged tissue. The application of KT Tape allows the athlete to continue activity while providing support to an injury and encouraging natural healing to take place. Common uses of KT Tape are Runner’s Knee, plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, shin splints, swelling reduction, and recovery. There are also a variety of upper extremity uses for the tape.

Which tape is right for me?

We carry KT Tape and KT Tape Pro. Both varieties are latex free, water proof, and available in pre-cut strips and different colors. The color of the tape makes no difference on its function, so go ahead and choose the color that matches your favorite running apparel! KT Tape Pro contains a reflective safety design and has a stronger adhesive, allowing it to stay on for about 7 days compared to 3 days with KT Tape.