It is called Kinesio Taping and is an elastic cotton patch, ideal for treating small neurological and orthopaedic injuries. Its conception is due to a Japanese chiropractor, Dr. Kenzo Kase, in the seventies.

What is Kinesio Taping for?

Kinesio Taping is an elastic cotton plaster, used for example in the case of small edemas and subcutaneous hematomas, tendinitis, cervical arthrosis, but also to relieve pain from contractures and muscle tensions. The kinesio taping does not release active ingredients and if applied correctly can be a valuable aid in rehabilitation.

How does Kinesio Taping work?

Kinesio taping is applied to the skin and depending on the position, direction and tension can inhibit an overloaded and contracted muscle or stimulate a hypotonic one. Nerve receptors are present on the epidermis, which are able to communicate with the muscles below as a result of external stimuli. The action of this patch relieves pain (inhibiting the contracted muscles that press against the pain receptors) and contributes to motor recovery.

In case of oedema, the kinesio taping facilitates lymphatic drainage, thanks to the lifting of the skin. Dr. Volpi explains: "It is applied to the skin, cut into a fan shape. In this way, the plaster determines a series of convolutions of the skin, similar to small waves, which act on the lymphatic flow as drainage pumps, thus favoring the reabsorption of oedema.

Finally, the kinesio taping, keeping the joints in the correct position, protects tendons and ligaments.

What are the benefits of kinesio taping?

This plaster combines freedom of movement - thanks to its elasticity - with a protective function. Its pure cotton composition minimizes the risk of allergy or skin irritation. For it to be really effective, it should be placed by experienced therapists and is therefore not recommended to do it yourself.