While most brands of Kinesiology Tapes are hypoallergenic, some people can be highly sensitive to any type of adhesives. If you are among the small percentage of users who are unfortunately allergic to KTs, don’t fret as there are a few solutions to fix this dilemma.
If you’ve never heard about Kinesiology Taping before, it is essentially a taping method that uses a flexible, cotton-mesh medical tape that is breathable, waterproof, and latex-free. These tapes are designed to simulate the skin’s properties. It also comes with a heat-activated glue that allows the skin’s moisture to evaporate.
Origin of Kinesiology Taping
Kinesiology Taping, also known as KT, was developed by Japanese chiropractor Kenzo Kase in 1970. He developed this medical tape to help minimize pain and aid in healing soft tissues in the muscles.
Nowadays, many athletes and fitness enthusiasts use this taping method to help with muscle pain management and injury recovery. It is also used by physical therapists to aid patients with different kinds of injuries.
Who Can Use It?
Aside from athletes and fitness geeks, everyone who needs help with muscle pain and injury can use Kinesiology Taping. Moreover, below is a rundown of people who can benefit from this taping method.
- People with hard labour professions such as construction workers, mechanics, factory workers, miners, etc.
- People who sit for long hours regularly including secretaries, office workers, students, programmers, drivers, etc.
- People who are physically active such as hikers, cyclists, joggers, etc.
- People who suffer from pain due to bad posture.
- People who suffer from tendon, muscle, and joint injuries due to accidents or disease.
The Benefits of Kinesiology Taping
Regardless of whether you are a physically active buff or a sedentary lounger, you might need the help of a good Kinesiology Tape at some point.
Here are some of the numerous benefits of using KT.
#1 Reduce pain.
The gentle pressure applied through Kinesiology Taping can help interrupt and disperse the pain.
#2 Reduce inflammation and swelling.
Kinesiology Taping can help dissipate the muscle inflammation and swelling caused by injuries. The elasticity of the tape can lift the skin and separate it from the swollen tissue underneath, thus giving less physical resistance to the lymphatic fluids retained.
#3 Improve blood circulation
The tape can help dissipate congestion while promoting efficient circulation of blood as well as lymphatic fluids. Adequate circulation aids in flushing out irritation, therefore reducing inflammation.
#4 Prevent cramps and spasms
Athletes and physically active people are going to make great use of Kinesiology Tapes. One of the best ways to prevent muscle cramps and spasms is to keep good circulation. KTs are proven to be effective at enhancing blood and lymphatic fluid circulation.
#5 Aid injury recovery
Kinesiology Taping can help accelerate the muscle’s recovery from injury. This taping method helps eliminate excess lactic acid, thus speeding up recovery.
Possible Reasons For Kinesiology Taping Rash
Here are the possible causes of developing a KT rash:
#1 Excessive tape stretching
If a Kinesiology Tape is applied with excessive stretch, it will pull on the skin which then results in redness and irritation.
#2 Irritation on hair follicles
Kinesiology Tapes are designed to have direct contact with the skin. If the tape is attached to an area with significant amounts of hair, the tape’s sensory simulation will be directed to the hair follicles and it may result in irritation.
#3 Irritation on newly shaved areas
While Kinesiology Sports Tapes are supposed to be applied to the skin with minimal hairs, applying them on freshly shaven areas, on the other hand, may irritate. Shaving can cause the skin to lose its first layer thus exposing the weaker and more sensitive layer of skin.
#4 High sensitivity to adhesives
Although Kinesiology Tapes are hypoallergenic and unmedicated, some people are extremely sensitive and allergic to any type of adhesive including the ones in KTs.
How To Treat Kinesiology Tape Rash
If you experience blisters or rashes in the areas you put the Kinesiology Tape, remove the tape immediately and give the area some time to heal. Wash the affected area with water and soap and make sure gently pat it dry. Once the irritated area is clean and dry, apply a topical rash cream of your choice or ask your doctor for a good one.
Kinesiology Taping Rash Prevention Tips
Here are some ways you can prevent a Kinesiology Taping rash:
#1 Do a patch test
Before applying the tape to the entire target area, it would be beneficial to do a patch test first especially if you are new to Kinesiology Taping. You can do this by cutting out a small strip of the tip and attaching it to your skin. This will help you ensure you are not allergic to the material or the adhesive used in the tape.
#2 Try out some movements
Test out if the tape feels comfortable for you by doing some movements while the K-Tape is attached to one of your body parts. Check if the tape pulls too much on your skin. If it is, then remove the tape and reapply correctly.
#3 Always apply to clean skin
Make sure the skin in the target area is clean and dry before you apply the tape. Avoid using oils or moisturizing the skin before putting on the tape.
#4 Make sure to choose a hypoallergenic one
While most Kinesiology Tapes are hypoallergenic, it is better to make sure you choose one that is guaranteed safe for sensitive skin by picking one with the “hypoallergenic” tag.
More Tips
- Kinesiology Tapes are designed to be worn for an average of 3 to 4 days.
- You can bathe or shower while the tape is on. However, make sure to wait for at least an hour if you have a newly applied tape on just to make sure it has had enough time to fully adhere to the skin. Pat the area dry instead of rubbing it after every shower.
- Creams and oils will prevent the adhesive of the tape from fully adhering to the skin.
- Kinesiology Tapes are designed to be breathable and waterproof. Therefore, you can go on a swim or workout and perspire without having to worry about your K-Tape coming off.
Looking for a great-quality Kinesiology Tape to use?
Hampton Adams offers a range of K-Tapes that are widely used and recommended by certified physical therapists and sports medicine professionals around the world.
