|
If you have watched any of the 2008 Olympic games, you may have noticed tape showing up on many of these elite athletes. Kerri Walsh, an Olympic beach volleyball player, has been wearing an interesting
configuration of tape on her shoulder throughout the games.
What is it? It is Kinesio Tape, a specific tape used by practitioners following the Kinesio Taping Method. The original Kinesio Taping technique was developed in 1973 by a Japanese chiropractor, Dr. Kenso Kase. In the United States, Kinesio Taping practitioners have developed their skills both by learning in classroom settings and practical application. The taping method is a systemic application of one or more layers with each layer having a specific function. The practitioner first evaluates the patient and determines which muscles are involved and initiates treatment to those muscles. Kinesio Tape is comprised of a ureter polymer elastic strand wrapped by 100% cotton fibers. The latex-free adhesive is 100% acrylic and heat activated. The corrective tape is waterproof and can be worn for 3 to 5 days. Trainers and physicians working with Olympians and other top athletes have been seeing the benefits of Kinesio Tape for several years.
|