We get this question a lot.
The answer we often give is, “Well, it depends.”
Kinesiotape can be used to reduce swelling, to improve muscle firing, for pain relief, or to stabilize a joint. The mechanism varies based on the application.
So here it is, ladies and gentlemen, kinesiotape use #1 = to reduce swelling.
For acute injuries and post-surgical swelling, kinesiotape can be applied to the skin over the swollen spot to help facilitate decongestion of the area. Some have suggested that the mechanism by which this occurs is through decompression of the injured tissue.
The tape “lifts” the skin, allowing the lymphatic ducts and blood vessels to clear the fluid more efficiently. Due to lack of research to support this, other internet know-it-alls say this is a bunch of baloney.
Regardless of the mechanism, we think the results speak for themselves.
Questions? Let us know in the comments!