Kinesiology Taping and Massage Therapy

Kinesiology taping and massage therapy offer numerous benefits and complement each other seamlessly.

Both aim to support the body's natural healing processes and improve musculoskeletal function. Yet their approach varies.  

Massage therapy involves manual manipulation of soft tissues to release tension, reduce pain, and promote relaxation. Kinesiology taping uses elastic tape applied to the skin to provide support, enhance circulation, and facilitate proper movement patterns without restricting mobility. With proper application, they can both be integrated into one session. 

This article aims to explore the valuable integration of kinesiology taping into massage therapy, highlighting its benefits, safety, effectiveness, and practical applications. 

Related: Kinesiology Taping for the Manual Therapist

What is kinesiology taping? 

Kinesiology taping is a therapeutic technique where a stretchy, (latex-free) cotton strip with acrylic adhesive is applied directly to the skin. The tape is activated by (body) heat or friction. Dr. Kenzo Kase first invented it in the 1970s. 

While research on their effectiveness is ongoing, many cases demonstrate that when applied correctly, kinesiology taping can relax muscles, activate them, and support joints. When applying, skin must be oil-free and have the appropriate degree of stretch. 

Kinesiology taping can also improve blood flow, reduce swelling, relieve pain, lymph fluid drainage and enhance recovery from sports injuries and various physical conditions without limiting movement. Qualified professionals, including sports therapists, physiotherapists, trainers, and massage therapists can utilize KT. 

Types of kinesiology tapes (KTs) 

Not all KTs are the same. They can vary in flexibility, material composition, and adhesive strength. Their use is based on factors like the patient's condition, skin sensitivity, and treatment location. 

Here are some different kinds of kinesiology tapes as an example: 

• Kinesio Tex Classic: This is the most versatile and universal tape out of all, making it suitable for various applications on healthy skin across different sports and rehabilitation settings. 

• Kinesio Tex Performance+: This tape is specifically formulated for athletes and individuals with active lifestyles, because of its durability and strength to withstand intense physical activity and sweat.  

•  Kinesio Tex Gold: This tape features a patented wave-patterned adhesive design that mimics the properties of the skin's elasticity. It is commonly used for rehabilitation, sports injuries, and chronic pain.  

• Kinesio Tex Gold Light Touch Plus: This tape is similar to the Kinesio Tex Gold tape, but with a lighter and gentler adhesive for individuals with sensitive skin, preventing skin irritation or discomfort. 

Benefits of taping 

The tape's flexibility provides support and tactile feedback to increase muscle activation and strength. Kinesiology tape application has a positive effect on patients with chronic low back pain. It can help manage pain in oncology patients. KT can also aid individuals with shoulder instability with sensorimotor control deficiencies. Studies show that KT can help reduce these deficiencies and reduce pain. 

In a study of female patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA), significant improvements were observed in pain and functional capacity. Moreover, KT can benefit individuals with conditions like Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS). They experience a near-constant multi-joint pain. KT provides a cost-effective means of managing symptoms.  

Safety and effectiveness 

Kinesiology tape offers a range of simple yet significant benefits, including portability, ease of application, and minimal side effects. Despite ongoing research into its effectiveness on different conditions, several proven benefits have emerged, making it a promising option for various conditions. 

For example, taping has shown promising results in reducing pain associated with various musculoskeletal injuries. These include patellofemoral pain, whiplash, and shoulder impingement syndrome. This is because taping can increase the space in the joints, which also explains the significant improvements in pain and functionality in female patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA). 

KT gently lifts the top layers of skin, creating a space between the underlying tissues, improving overall circulation and lymphatic flow. Some studies have also shown that incorporating kinesiology taping alongside conventional therapy can lead to reductions in chronic lower back pain and improve overall quality of life. 

Overall, these studies are the proof of several benefits, just like: 

• Supporting and stabilizing muscles and joints  
• Improving blood and lymph circulation 
• Reducing swelling  
• Decreasing pain 
• Strengthen weakened muscles 
• Repositioning Joints 
• Activating lazy muscles 
• Increasing proprioception 
• Improves motor function and sensory impairments, hence enhances the sensory feedback 

While kinesiology taping is generally safe, it's important to follow precautions. Trained professionals should apply the tape appropriately and follow the guidelines below to prevent skin irritation and other complications in individuals. Read along to learn about safe applications for the best results. 

Safe and practical methods of integrating kinesiology taping with massage therapy 

The use of kinesiology taping with massage therapy can increase the above-mentioned potential benefits and speed up the body's natural healing process.  

After massage therapy, kinesiology tapes can keep the muscles and tissues relaxed for a longer time. This can offer lasting relief from discomfort, improved functionality, thereby enhancing patient satisfaction. However, the overall results can depend on the individual's need, conditions, application techniques used and more things  

Massage therapists can safely complement KT with manual therapy methods by learning these simple adjustments below, despite the dynamic nature and ongoing research on kinesiology taping. 

Prepare the skin 

It's essential to ensure that the skin is clean and dry before applying kinesiology tape in a massage therapy environment where oils and lotions are commonly used. This can ensure better adhesion. Additionally, to further improve its stickiness, massage therapists may also ask permission to trim excessive hair on the application site. 

Apply before activity  

Therapists should apply the tape at least 30 minutes to 1 hour before beginning any activity to ensure optimal adhesion. This can also give support during movement, help reduce the risks of injuries, reduce pain, and enhance performance by providing stability and proprioceptive feedback to the body. 

Apply it correctly 

Some proper application cues include ending the tape on the skin, not on the tape itself, to prevent premature peeling. Additionally, it's important to avoid overstretching the tape, as this can compromise its effectiveness and potentially lead to skin irritation or discomfort.  

Depending on the brand and type, some tapes can stretch up to 120-140% of their original length. Yet, this does not mean it should always. Generally, it's recommended to use less than 50% tension to support muscles, around 10-15% to relax the muscle or reduce its activation. 

If you're aiming to support a joint or muscle, limit movement, and improve stability, it's advised to use over 50% tension. You can also follow the manufacturer's recommendations for optimal results.  

Avoiding sensitive areas and wounds 

It's important not to apply kinesiology tape over wounds, irritated skin or areas. Skin conditions can hinder the healing process and cause further complications. Therapists can remove kinesiology tape safely by gently peeling it off in the direction of hair growth. They can also apply mild pressure to the skin to reduce discomfort.  

They should avoid ripping it off to prevent skin irritation or damage. Instead, if the tape is stubborn, they can use a small amount of oil or moisturizer to help loosen it before removal. After taking off the tape, it's advisable to clean the skin thoroughly to remove any residue. 

When incorporating kinesiology taping with massage therapy, it's crucial to understand these safety cues, techniques, and adjust them as necessary to optimize therapeutic outcomes. This approach ensures a treatment strategy that maximizes the benefits of both methods for the client.