Kinesio Tex Tape - Principles and Types

 

Introduction:

 Kinesio Taping Method is a therapeutic tool utilised by physical therapists' in all programs and levels of care. The idea of using elastic tape to mimic the therapist's hands was first presented by Dr Kenzo Kase in the 1970s. Since then, it became the modality used in pain management, soft tissue injury, tissues and joints malalignment, oedema, and more. Kinesio Taping Method utilises four types of Kinesio Tex Tapes, each with specific properties designed for use on fragile, sensitive skin or applied with higher tensions. Kinesio Taping Method has also effectively treated animals and two special tapes are used: Kinesio Equine and Kinesio Canine.

Properties:

1. Ability to stretch to 120-140% of its original length

2. Recoil back to the anchor that is applied without stretch

3. Heat-activated adhesive

4. Hypoallergenic dyes that make the tape safe for most users

5. Latex-free

6. Drying time after being wet is about 5-10 minutes

7. Can be worn for several days

Types of Kinesio Tex Tapes:

1. Kinesio Tex Classic: the original tape that received several upgrades over time, the most universal as it can be used for all applications and ideally on healthy skin.

2. Kinesio Tex Performance+: different, looser pattern on the tread, polyester, and cotton blend best for sensitive skin when higher tensions on the tape are desired.

3. Kinesio Tex Gold: special distribution of adhesive allowing good attachment without requiring large surface area, good for low tension applications and available only for trained professionals.

4. Kinesio Tex Gold Light Touch Plus: adhesive distributed to allow gentle grip, does not last as long as other types. It is used for short-term applications and usually for children and older adults with fragile skin.

5. Kinesio Equine: developed to allow the Kinesio Taping method to be used on horses, can be applied directly on horses' hair, and its taste prevents animals from chewing it.

Kinesio Canine is used on dogs and works well with dogs' hair.