The procedure should be avoided in case of individual intolerance to the components, in particular the acrylic in the tapes. Contraindications to kinesio taping in children also include fresh injuries, swelling and fever after injury. This is a rehabilitation method used to restore muscles, not for quick treatment.
What the Kinesio Taping Procedure Involves
Kinesio tape is an elastic cotton strip. On the inner side it has a layer of hypoallergenic acrylic-based adhesive gel, which attaches the tape to the skin during application. The tapes are non-toxic, so such materials are used even in pediatrics.
The taping procedure requires minor preparation. The hair on the skin should be shaved or trimmed with a trimmer to ensure better adhesion. At the same time, it is important not to leave any scratches.
Taping is performed in the following sequence:
- The area of the body where the strip will be applied is cleaned and degreased.
- The paper backing is removed from the tape.
- The fixing ends are applied without tension. It is also important that they are rounded, which improves the effectiveness of the tapes and how long they stay on.
- No wrinkles should form during application, as a rash may appear in such places. At the same time, the tape itself may look wavy because of the skin lifting. The strips must be skillfully rubbed down to create the necessary adhesion.
The procedure should be entrusted to a specialist who knows how to apply tape correctly. CSM has specialists with knowledge and experience in performing procedures using this Japanese technology.
It is important to follow the taping technique chosen for the attachment area. Therapeutic tapes are always applied along and directed along the functional lines of the body to fix the ligaments in a physiologically correct position. This way they do not interfere with the functioning of the body and create a micro-massage that may stimulate cell metabolism. Children's tapes look slightly narrower than regular ones, or a piece of the required length can be cut off.
The procedure also depends on the attachment site. Directions are chosen according to which part of the body is being taped: the lower back, shoulder, knee, abdomen, neck or collarbone. On the back, this is in the direction of the spine, and when taping the foot, the strips may be crossed over one another to wrap around the injured joint. Application can also be done for foot deformities or flat feet.