ATHLETIC TAPING
Dr. Smith uses Athletic Taping to help support acute injuries; to help decrease chronic inflammation; to increase proprioceptive input; and to stimulate lymphatic drainage. It is especially useful after cupping and lymphatic drainage massage.
Athletic Taping as Care
Kinesio Tape
Kinesio Tape is a flexible type of athletic tape that was innovated by a Japanese Chiropractor in the 1970’s. It has steadily grown in use and popularity ever since. High level athletes and healthcare practitioners alike use the tape worldwide.
The general idea is that the light tug that is put on the skin stimulates proprioceptors therefore increasing the amount of information coming from the taped area to your brain. In theory this improves your control of that area and coordination. In addition, the light pull lifts the skin thereby opening channels into the lymphatic system and stimulating drainage of inflammation.
While the research on its effectiveness is mixed, many people find relief. This is especially true in the case of musculoskeletal injuries. Enough evidence to support the efficacy of Kinesio Tape has surfaced for its use to be reimbursable by Medicare. It is now readily available from both online sellers and local drug stores alike.
Uses in Care
We find taping to be effective for the treatment of a number of common symptoms:
- Acute Inflammation
- Chronic Inflammation
- Lack of joint coordination following injury
- Bruising
- Chronic Pain
- Ankle Pain
- Knee Pain
- Shoulder pain