Not just cracks! Sports tape
Chiropractors are famous for cracking backs, but that is only one part of what we do. Today we’re going to be talking about sports tape - what it is, how it works and how to use it. You may have seen it before on athletes - it’s been seen a lot at the olympics.
What is sports tape?
Sports tape is elasticated cotton with an adhesive side that you stick to your skin over the problem area. It comes in a huge variety of colours, patterns, shapes, material and more! I’m a big fan of KT tape - at the clinic I use their pro synthetic water resistant tape which stays on for up to 7 days.
What is used for?
It is used to support joints, and aid with pain relief and healing. In the clinic I tend to use it for problems such as plantar fasciitis, shoulder pain, tennis elbow and more. I often use sports tape on myself as a quick and easy way to get rid of the knee pain I occasionally get while horse riding (particularly as I am a terrible patient and often forget to do the exercises I need to do to keep my knee happy! The tape enables me to carry on riding pain free).
How does it work?
KT TAPE describes the process as “when an area of the body is injured through impact or over-use, the lymphatic fluid builds up causing inflammation and swelling. This accumulation of lymphatic fluids may cause increased pressure on muscles and tissue which can cause significant discomfort or pain.”
“It is believed that when applied correctly, KT Tape lifts the skin, decompressing the layers of fascia, allowing for greater movement of lymphatic fluid which transports white blood cells throughout the body and removes waste products, cellular debris, and bacteria.”
“KT Tape helps reduce pressure to the tissue and may reduce discomfort or pain. Correct taping also provides support to muscles by improving the muscle’s ability to contract, even when it is weak, and helps the muscle to not over-extend or over-contract.”
Some studies have shown benefits in areas such as the ankle and shoulder, however more research is needed to confirm its efficacy.
Who can use sports tape?
Almost anyone! Sports tape is safe and easy to use for many injuries.*
I love using tape at the clinic and encourage patients to invest in some tape themselves as there are tonnes of easy to follow videos out there for a huge variety of body parts and injury types.
*Please seek medical advice before using tape to ensure that you are a suitable candidate, possible side effects include allergic reaction to adhesive or skin irritation from overuse or improper application/removal.