Kinesiology Taping (Coming Soon)

Kinesiology taping uses a flexible, adhesive tape that is applied directly to the skin over or around muscles and joints.

Unlike traditional rigid sports tape, kinesiology tape is designed to stretch and move with your body.

It may be used by healthcare professionals alongside other approaches to help provide support during movement and as part of an individual treatment or rehabilitation plan.

Your practitioner will assess you before deciding whether kinesiology taping is appropriate and how the tape should be applied.

Kinesiology Taping can be considered for a range of muscle and joint concerns.

Depending on your individual assessment, your practitioner may use taping to provide additional support around areas such as:

• Shoulders
• Knees
• Ankles
• Feet
• Back
• Neck
• Arms and elbows
• Wrists and hands

It may also be incorporated into a wider rehabilitation or exercise programme where appropriate.

Not sure whether taping could be suitable for you?

Speak to our team about your symptoms and we’ll help you understand your next step.

Kinesiology tape is thin, flexible and elastic, allowing it to move with your skin and body.

Rather than restricting movement in the way some traditional sports tapes do, it is applied in specific patterns depending on the area being treated and the reason for using it.

The amount of stretch, direction and position of the tape can all vary.

That’s why how the tape is applied matters.

Your practitioner will assess the area before applying the tape in a way that’s appropriate for you.

We start with an assessment

We’ll talk to you about the problem you’re experiencing, your symptoms and how they’re affecting your movement or everyday activities.

We’ll assess the area

Your practitioner will assess the relevant muscle or joint and determine whether kinesiology taping may be appropriate.

Your tape is applied

If suitable, the tape will be carefully positioned and applied to the appropriate area.

We’ll explain what happens next

You’ll receive advice about wearing the tape, looking after your skin and when it should be removed.

If kinesiology taping forms part of a wider treatment or rehabilitation plan, your practitioner will also discuss your next steps with you.

You can buy Kinesiology Tape in many places, but knowing when, where and how to apply it isn’t always straightforward.

At St Hugh’s, your appointment starts with an individual assessment rather than simply applying tape to the area that hurts.

This allows your practitioner to consider your symptoms and movement before deciding whether taping is appropriate for you.

Care centred around you

At St Hugh’s Hospital, you can expect:

• An individual assessment
• Professional kinesiology tape application
• Advice tailored to your needs
• A comfortable healthcare environment
• Clear information about wearing and removing your tape
• Support with your next steps where appropriate

Does kinesiology tape restrict movement?

Kinesiology tape is flexible and designed to move with your body rather than completely restricting movement. Your practitioner will explain what activities are appropriate following application.

How long can I wear kinesiology tape?

This will depend on the tape, where it has been applied and your individual circumstances. Your practitioner will tell you how long to leave your tape in place and when to remove it.

Can I shower with kinesiology tape on?

Many kinesiology tapes are water-resistant and can remain in place during showering. Your practitioner will give you specific advice about caring for your tape.

Can I exercise while wearing it?

This will depend on why the tape has been applied and the problem you’re experiencing. Your practitioner will advise you about exercise and activity following your appointment.

Does the tape hurt?

Applying kinesiology tape shouldn’t normally be painful. You may notice the tape on your skin, particularly when you first start wearing it.

Can kinesiology tape irritate my skin?

Some people can experience skin irritation or sensitivity to adhesive tape.

Your practitioner will discuss this with you. If you develop irritation, itching or discomfort while wearing the tape, you should follow the advice provided about removing it.

Can anyone have kinesiology taping?

No. Taping isn’t appropriate for everyone or every injury.

Your practitioner will consider your symptoms, skin and relevant medical information before deciding whether it’s suitable.

Is kinesiology taping a treatment on its own?

Not necessarily. Depending on why you’re having treatment, taping may be used alongside other approaches such as exercise, rehabilitation or physiotherapy.

Your practitioner will discuss what’s appropriate for you.

Do I need to prepare for my appointment?

The tape needs to adhere directly to the skin, so you may be asked to arrive with the area clean and free from creams or oils.

Wear comfortable clothing that makes it easy for your practitioner to access the area being assessed.

Whether you’re dealing with a muscle or joint concern, returning to activity or looking for additional support as part of your rehabilitation, start with an individual assessment.