“Medical tape” is a broad term. When people refer to tape used for pain relief, they usually refer to katoenen kinesiologietape, also known as sport pain relief tape. Unlike traditional zinkoxide tape, which is rigid and restricts movement, cotton kinesiology tape is highly elastic and moves with the body.
The effectiveness of medical tape for pain
The theory behind the effectiveness of kinesiology tape is based on several physiological effects:
Pijnverlichting: When used correctly, pain relief strips gently lift the skin, creating a microspace between the skin and underlying soft tissue. This pressure relief reduces pressure on pain receptors and improves blood and lymphatic circulation. The medical tape for injuries’ continuous sensory input also interferes with pain signals sent to the brain, effectively distracting the nervous system from the pain.
Proprioception and Postural Cues: The medical tape for pain provides continuous tactile cues to remind you of your body’s position in space (proprioception). This helps retrain muscles and promotes better posture and movement patterns, as well as key pain management and prevention factors.
Circulation and Healing: The medical tape for pain is believed to promote blood circulation and lymphatic drainage by lifting the skin. This helps reduce swelling and inflammation, which are often major causes of pain, and may slow the healing process.
Muscle Support and Activation: Depending on the application, sport pain relief tape can support weak muscles or relax overused muscles. This helps balance muscle function and relieve pressure on the injured area.
Placebo Effect: While difficult to distinguish, there is likely a strong placebo effect in its effectiveness. However, even a placebo effect can have real benefits, such as pain relief and increased confidence in exercise.
How to use medical tape for pain?
Onder rug pijn: You can have the patient bend forward slightly for the standard “I”-shaped pain relief strips. Apply two vertical tapes on either side of the spine and perform a mild to moderate Stretch. Add a horizontal tape for a Stretch where the pain is most severe.
Kniepijn (around the kneecap): Bend the knee at a 90-degree angle and apply a “Y”-shaped pain relief strips. Place the brace on your thigh and wrap the two thin cords around your kneecap.
Shoulder Pain: For shoulder pain, apply the “I”-shaped pain relief strips directly to the painful area and use a moderate stretch to relieve pressure. Cross the two “I”-shaped pain relief strips across the shoulder joint for additional support.
Using different stretch levels of medical tape for pain can help maximize its effectiveness.
Light Stretch (10-25%): Relieves pain, promotes lymphatic drainage, and reduces swelling.
Moderate Stretch (25-50%): Provides muscle support and corrective force.
Heavy Stretch (50-75% or higher): Used to provide strong support for ligaments or tendons. Use this level of Stretch with caution, as it may cause Stretchritation.
After applying the medical tape for pain, rub the surface vigorously with your hand for a few seconds. The heat generated by the friction activates the adhesive, ensuring a secure adherence and achieving the most effective tape treatment.
Conclusie
Properly used, sports tape is a valuable tool for athletes. It can:
Reduce pain during exercise.
Provide temporary stability.
Boost confidence during exercise.
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