Kinesiology Tape
Kinesio tape is a fascinating tool. Tape can be applied in several ways along certain areas of the body that may be contributing to an imbalance. When used as an anti-inflammatory tool, the tape gently lifts the skin away from the underlying tissues such as fascia, muscles and tissues. This allows for decompression to potentially take place by improving blood flow + lymphatic drainage in the area, without impeding range of motion or balance. Tape can also be applied in a support manner, encouraging proprioceptors and nerves to awaken. Taping may be effective in reducing swelling, inflammation, stiffness and soreness in muscles, joints, ligaments and tendons. KT tape may also be effective on trigger points and scar tissue.
How Kinesiology Tape Works:
Kinesiology tape is different than other athletic tapes on the market in that it stretches
along it’s longitudinal axis, but not across it’s width which allows it to move with the
body. This is the only athletic tape that does not restrict range of motion in any way
when it is applied.
When kinesiology tape is applied to the skin (or in the case of animals to the hair), it
mechanically decompresses the skin and the underlying tissues. When tape is applied to
an animal, the tape lifts the hair, which in turn lifts the skin and accomplishes the same
decompression seen in people. The decompression action promotes increased blood and
lymph flow, which decreases inflammation and relieves pressure from free nerve endings.
As the person or animal moves with the tape on, the tape stimulates nerves called
mechanoreceptors with every movement. The tape acts as a natural pain reliever because
stimulation of mechanoreceptors inhibits nociceptors (the pain generators). The more
mechanoreceptors that are stimulated, the less pain will be perceived. Movement with
the tape on also stimulates nerves called prorioceptors, which contribute to the brain’s
sense of where the body’s parts are in space and throughout movement. Often times,
proprioceptive input is altered in people and animals due to past injuries and
misalignments. The tape can help stimulate proper proprioception and in turn promote
proper movement.
How Kinesiology Tape Works:
Kinesiology tape is different than other athletic tapes on the market in that it stretches
along it’s longitudinal axis, but not across it’s width which allows it to move with the
body. This is the only athletic tape that does not restrict range of motion in any way
when it is applied.
When kinesiology tape is applied to the skin (or in the case of animals to the hair), it
mechanically decompresses the skin and the underlying tissues. When tape is applied to
an animal, the tape lifts the hair, which in turn lifts the skin and accomplishes the same
decompression seen in people. The decompression action promotes increased blood and
lymph flow, which decreases inflammation and relieves pressure from free nerve endings.
As the person or animal moves with the tape on, the tape stimulates nerves called
mechanoreceptors with every movement. The tape acts as a natural pain reliever because
stimulation of mechanoreceptors inhibits nociceptors (the pain generators). The more
mechanoreceptors that are stimulated, the less pain will be perceived. Movement with
the tape on also stimulates nerves called prorioceptors, which contribute to the brain’s
sense of where the body’s parts are in space and throughout movement. Often times,
proprioceptive input is altered in people and animals due to past injuries and
misalignments. The tape can help stimulate proper proprioception and in turn promote
proper movement.
Disclaimer: All Spa wellness therapies mentioned herein is a non-invasive modality intended to enhance well-being in the healthy horse (or dog) – it is not designed to replace proper veterinary care. If in doubt regarding the physical health of your horse, please consult your veterinarian. JRs staff will NOT treat an injured horse (or dog) without a veterinarian approval. The FDA has not evaluated the statements made throughout this website. JRs Equine Spa & Retreat’s services are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Individuals with questions or concerns regarding any medical or other condition should consult a health care professional. Use of this site or our products are subject to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Notice.
