Definition

Kinesiotaping is an alternative therapeutic technique often used in orthopedics, especially in competitive sports. It involves elastic adhesive bandages made of cotton, which are applied to the skin.

So far, however, studies have not been able to provide evidence for the effectiveness of kinesiotaping.

Mode of action

Kinesiotaping can cause the following effects:

  • Improvement of blood circulation
  • Improvement of the lymphatic drainage
  • Stabilization of tendons, muscles and ligaments
  • Regulation of muscle tension
  • Pain relief
  • Increase of joint mobility

The joint is in a stretched position while the tape is applied. If the joint is now returned to a neutral position, the tape together with the skin raises small folds. These so-called "convolutions" ensure that certain receptors in the skin are stimulated, which in turn is supposed to stimulate the body's natural healing processes.

Areas of application

Kinesiotaping is used for the following orthopedic conditions, among others:

  • Injuries to muscles, ligaments, tendons or joints
  • Overloading of muscles, ligaments, tendons or joints
  • Pain of the musculoskeletal system, e.g. back pain
  • Muscle strains

Kinesiotaping can usually be used in almost all orthopedic diseases as to complement the original therapy.

Treatment process

One of our orthopedists at Orthozentrum Freiburg will discuss your existing complaints with you in detail and clarify any open questions regarding kinesiotaping. Afterwards, we will make sure that the skin in the area to be treated is clean and dry. The kinesiotape is cut to fit and then applied to the skin without pulling. As a rule, the tape remains there for a few days.

Side effects

Possible side effects may include:

  • Irritation, redness of the skin

Kinesiotaping is a gentle and safe treatment method. In some cases, the adhesive of the tapes may cause temporary irritation or redness of the skin. Only rarely do allergic reactions occur. The skin should therefore always be closely observed during treatment.

FAQs

No, kinesiotaping should not be painful in any case. It is only possible that at the beginning you will feel a slight feeling of tension in the skin due to the slight pull of the elastic bandages.

The duration is individual and depends on the disease of the person to be treated. As a rule, the wearing period includes a few days, but can be extended to one or two weeks.

They may continue their regular daily routine as usual and do not have to pay attention to anything special. The tape is waterproof and therefore suitable for bathing and/or showering. It is best to dry the tape carefully afterwards with a towel or a hair dryer.

As a rule, kinesiotaping is a self-pay service. However, some health insurance companies subsidize such extra services. It is best to ask your health insurance company directly.

After thorough instruction by a qualified and experienced therapist, you can apply the kinesiotape yourself at home if necessary. You can obtain the kinesiotape in pharmacies and drugstores.

Before applying the tapes, the skin should be clean and dry to ensure the longest possible wearing time. In addition, for the same reason, you should round the corners of the tape with scissors. In any case, the tape should not be applied to the skin with much tension or traction.

If you have difficulty removing the kinesiotape, you can rub it with olive or baby oil, for example, and gently remove it after a few minutes.

If you have any further questions or would like to make an appointment with us, please do not hesitate to contact us at 0761 7077300, by email info@orthozentrum-freiburg.de or via our contact form. You are also welcome to book an appointment via the online platform www.doctolib.de or via the Doctolib App.