You may have noticed some of the Olympic athletes wearing coloured tape on their body parts and wondered what it was for. It is known as Kinesio Tape and I am wearing a red one down the back of my left calf as I write. It was first used over 25 years ago in Japan by a chiropractor and is used widely today by elite athletes and everyday sports fans. It is based on kinesiology, the science of anatomy, physiology and body mechanics, and is based on the idea that the body can heal itself if enabled with appropriate support. Its use involves taping over muscles to minimize pain and inflammation, relax tired muscles that are suffering from overuse and to support muscle movement. The taping is non-restrictive and allows a full range of motion, critical to athletes who are recovering from injury or seeking to avoid it. It has acrylic, heat-activated backing and when adhered, it lifts the upper layers of skin away from the muscle relieving pressure and pain in the affected area. It must be applied by a trained professional, as if placed correctly, it can aid in proper blood flow and lymphatic drainage, further rehabilitating damaged muscle or aiding in avoiding injury. It can be worn during bathing and swimming and lasts for 3 to 5 days before re-taping is required.
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