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Archive for the ‘Precut Kinesiology Tape’ Category
Part 1: Precut Kinesiology Tape
Kinesiology taping is everywhere these days. From professional athletes to school sports teams to therapy clinics, the use of kinesiology tape to reduce pain and inflammation from injuries, surgery and chronic conditions has become the “go to” therapy. Initially, the use of kinesiology tape was limited to health professionals who had special training in cutting and application techniques. Now, however, more and more home users are trying kinesiology taping for the first time.
One of the factors contributing to the upsurge in home use is the recent introduction of pre-cut kinesiology tape for specific parts of the body. While cutting and applying kinesiology tape from rolls requires significant expertise, most people can quickly acquire a basic proficiency in applying precut kinesiology tape with no formal training. For this reason, I recommend that all home users begin with pre-cut kinesiology tape. Only after experiencing success with this simpler method of application, should home users attempt to work with rolls of tape.
The only manufacturer of pre-cut kinesiology tape for specific body parts is SpiderTech Tape. There are currently 16 different SpiderTech applications: Ankle, Calf and Arch, Elbow, Full Knee, Groin, Hamstring, Hip, Lower Back, Neck, Shoulder, Upper Back, Upper Knee, Wrist, Small Lymphatic, Medium Lymphatic and Large Lymphatic. The first 13 applications are designed for specific body parts, while the three lymphatic applications can be used on any part of the body to reduce severe swelling and edema.
Each SpiderTech product comes individually packaged, with step-by-step application instructions included. The backing of the tape is marked by individual, sequentially numbered sections. After tearing the backing along all of the serrations, the backing is removed from one section at a time, allowing the tape to be applied in easy-to-handle segments. This helps prevent a common problem among beginning tapers – removing too much backing and getting the tape stuck to itself!
The top image depicts the reverse side of the SpiderTech Lower Back application, showing how it will be applied in 5 separate sections. The bottom image shows the Lower Back Spider after application, with the numbers indicating the sections from the reverse side. Every SpiderTech product comes with similar images, making it easy to visualize how it will be applied.
With that said, however, there is a learning curve involved with applying even pre-cut kinesiology tape. It’s a good idea to start with 2-3 applications and not feel discouraged if full benefits aren’t achieved the first time. Experiment with various amounts of stretch in both the tape and the muscle to see which combinations provide the best results.
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Kinesiology Taping Instructions for Swelling & Edema
posted by Tape Expert @ 10:00 AM
Thursday, October 1, 2009
My last post explained how the unique properties of kinesiology tape allow it to effectively relieve swelling and edema. Now, we’re going to review the correct lymphatic application technique to ensure optimum results.
Keeping in mind that the goal of this type of kinesiology taping procedure is to lift the skin, creating a space between the skin and the underlying tissue, these are the general guidelines:
1. The muscle group under the inflamed area should be held in a stretched position as the tape is applied.
2. The tape should be stretched approximately 50% beyond its resting length as it is applied.
3. The individual strips of tape should roughly follow the lymphatic channels, and a small space should be left between each segment.
Following are step-by-step instructions for applying a SpiderTech Precut Lymphatic application to relieve swelling, edema or lymphedema. Although a similar result can be obtained by cutting lengths of kinesiology tape from a roll, this pre-cut application is preferable, as it is ready-to-apply. The images show the tape being applied to the quadriceps area on the front of the thigh, but the same principles could be followed for any other part of the body.
Step 1: Begin by tearing all of the perforations on the backing of the tape. After determining where the tape will be applied, remove the backing from the anchor end of the tape (Section 1). and apply it to the skin with no stretch in the tape. Rub the tape briskly from the center toward the edges to activate the adhesive.
Step 2: Stretch the underlying muscle group to its maximum pain-free range of motion. Begin removing the backing from the first “finger” of the tape, and apply it in a curve, along the outer boundary of the treated area. The tape should be stretched approximately 50% as it is applied, except for the final 1-2″ which should not be stretched.
Step 3: One at a time, apply the remaining fingers of this half of the application, following the curve of the first piece. Maintain a gap of approximately a finger width between each strip of tape. Continue to stretch the tape as it is applied, except for the final 1-2″. After each strip is applied, rub it briskly to activate the adhesive.
Step 4: Begin removing the backing from the outer strip of the other half of the application. Apply it in a curve along the opposite boundary of the treated area. The strip should cross over the strips that have already been applied. Continue applying the remaining strips parallel to the outer finger until all have been applied.
Step 5: The finished application should be symmetrical and completely cover the area of swelling or edema. Ensure that each strip has been rubbed to activate the adhesive. Return the muscle to a relaxed position. The tape should now appear somewhat wrinkled, indicating that it is lifting the skin and underlying tissues as desired.
Video – How to Apply SpiderTech Kinesiology Tape
posted by Tape Expert @ 1:00 PM
Sunday, September 27, 2009
One of the things that makes SpiderTech precut kinesiology tape both clinically effective AND cost effective is that a single application can be worn for up to 5 days. Clinically, this allows the therapeutic benefits to accrue, 24 hours a day, for the entire time it’s worn. No other treatment modality can come close to around-the-clock reduction of pain and inflammation for up to 5 days. Financially, given the $8 to $10 cost of a single application of SpiderTech therapeutic tape, this works out to less than $2 per day for one of the most effective therapeutic treatments available.
Regardless of the price, everyone wants to get the most benefit from the dollars we spend. The best way to do this with SpiderTech Tape is to follow the application guidelines carefully to ensure the most effective, longest lasting applications. In the following video, Dr. Kevin Jardine, creator of the SpiderTech line of pre-cut kinesiology taping applications, outlines the 12 Principles of Application for successful taping.
In the last few months the athletic therapy community has been invaded by a new breed of spiders. These spiders are leaving their distinctive marks on the necks, shoulders, elbows, wrists, backs, thighs, calves, ankles and feet of injured athletes. Rather than a cause for alarm, as one might first think, this spider invasion has been welcomed with open arms. Why? Because the spiders I’m talking about are therapeutic spiders, made of kinesiology tape … the thin, stretchy “miracle tape” that relieves pain, reduces inflammation and enhances function.
Kinesiology tape hit the big time at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, where many of the world’s top athletes were seen wearing it on their injured or overused body parts. Instantly, people around the world started searching for this therapeutic phenomenon. Hundreds of thousands of rolls of the black, blue, pink or beige tape were sold. Unfortunately, many of these purchasers experienced a let-down after they found it, as they discovered that it was almost impossible to create, cut and apply the intricate configurations of tape without specialized training.
This is where the spiders enter the story … or SpiderTech, to be completely accurate. SpiderTech Tape is the next generation in kinesiology tape – pre-cut, individually packaged kinesiology tape applications for specific parts of the body. No designing, no measuring and no cutting are required.
Pulled groin muscle? Try the SpiderTech Groin Spider. Follow the simple instructions in the package and on the back of the tape, and you’ll have your own kinesiology tape application in a matter of minutes! Stiff neck? Try the Neck Spider. Plantar fasciitis? There’s a Calf & Arch Spider that works wonders. A Wrist Spider can be used for carpal tunnel syndrome, as well as strains and sprains. Other applications include Neck, Shoulder, Elbow, Upper Back/Postural, Lower Back, Hip, Hamstring, Ankle and three sizes of Lymphatic applications (designed to reduce severe swelling and inflammation).
The products are backed with excellent instructional materials, both in the packaging and online. Free printable PDF’s are available providing step-by-step instructions for each of the 15 applications. For those who prefer to both see and hear instructions, there is also an instructional video for each product.
Who’s using SpiderTech now? Coaches and trainers are carrying it in their kits. Athletes keep them in their sports bags, for quick application should an injury occur. Many physical therapists and chiropractors have incorporated kinesiology taping into their practices, and are loving the speed, simplicity and duplicability of working with pre-cut kinesiology tape applications.
SpiderTech Tape can be used to treat acute or chronic injuries, as well as to prevent injuries from occurring in the first place. In addition to rapidly relieving pain and inflammation, it also enhances activation of muscles, providing a natural boost to performance.
If you’re dealing with strains, sprains, any of the “itis” disorders, swelling and edema, stiffness, fatigue, cramps or spasms, it could be time to go on a Spider hunt!
Since last summer’s Beijing Olympics, more and more professional athletes have been spotted wearing kinesiology tape. In today’s semifinal match at the US Open, Novak Djokovic, #4 player in the world, wore kinesiology tape on his left knee. Other prominent athletes who have worn kinesiology tape include cyclist Lance Armstrong and his entire US Postal team, soccer player David Beckham, and tennis players Serena Williams, Robby Ginepri and Justine Henin. The athlete responsible for much of the current kinesiology taping craze is beach volleyball player, Kerri Walsh, who displayed it prominently on her shoulder during the Beijing Olympic Games, at which she won Gold with partner, Misty May Traynor.
What is it that makes kinesiology tape so popular with athletes? Let’s count down the top 10 reasons:
10. It’s lightweight and portable – easy to keep in a sports bag for last-minute applications.
9. It’s inexpensive (< $10 per application).
8. Once applied, it stays on for up to 5 days.
8. It’s so thin and stretchy that it’s virtually undetectable once it’s been applied.
7. It provides structural support without restricting range of motion.
6. It begins to relieve pain and reduce inflammation within minutes of being applied.
5. It enhances performances via increased activation in muscles that have “shut down” due to pain or injury.
4. It stays on through sweating, showering and even swimming.
3. It can be applied on any part of the body that is experiencing pain or inflammation.
2. The new pre-cut kinesiology tape applications don’t require any specialized training to apply.
1. It comes in 4 colors and looks totally cool!
For competitive athletes, kinesiology tape is becoming the “go to” therapy product for all of their aches, pains and injuries.
Spiders took over at several beach volleyball events this summer … SpiderTech Spiders, that is! SpiderTech is the name of a new type of pre-cut kinesiology tape that is currently taking the athletic world by storm. Already configured for specific parts of the body, a SpiderTech precut kinesiology tape application can go from sports bag to body in a matter of minutes. The result? Rapid relief of pain, swelling and inflammation, plus enhanced activation of injured or fatigued muscles. Decreased pain and increased funtion … sounds like a winning combination for any athlete!
This image shows top AVP player, Nicole Branagh, wearing a SpiderTech Shoulder Spider as she wins the AVP Crocs Manhattan Beach Open with partner, Elaine Youngs in July.
Kinesiology taping is an especially valuable tool for competitive athletes because it provides protection and support for injured muscles without restricting range of motion. This allows many injured athletes to continue to train and compete effectively as they recover from injuries.
Video – How to Apply Kinesiology Tape for Low Back Pain
posted by Tape Expert @ 7:00 AM
Friday, September 4, 2009
The following video shows Dr. Kevin Jardine, inventor of SpiderTech pre-cut kinesiology taping applications, demonstrating the proper technique for applying the Low Back Spider to someone with lower back pain. This application technique is designed to reduce pain in the lower back and upper buttocks area. This technique also enhances muscle activation in painful back extensor muscles, allowing them to function with greater strength and endurance. This is especially important for athletes who need to continue training and/or competing, despite acute or chronic low back pain.
My last post discussed the incidence of lower back pain in competitive cyclists. The following instructions for applying pre-cut kinesiology tape for lower back pain are not limited to cyclists, however. Anyone who has experienced spasms, stiffness or pain in their lower back can benefit from the following technique.
Unless you have specialized training in kinesiology taping techniques, I recommend using pre-cut applications. Already designed for specific parts of the body, precut kinesiology tape allows you to completely skip the often difficult steps of designing and cutting an application from a roll of kinesiology tape. There is only one brand of pre-cut kinesiology tape currently available. It’s called SpiderTech Tape, and it comes in 15 different applications for different parts of the body. As the following illustration shows, the reverse side of the tape is divided into numbered sections, making it simple to know which pieces to apply first.
Here are the step-by-step instructions for applying the SpiderTech precut kinesiology tape application for the lower back.
Note: Because the goal of this application is pain relief, we follow the principle, “stretch the muscle, not the tape.”
Preparation
Ensure that the skin of the elbow and forearm is clean and dry. Prepare the precut lower back kinesiology tape by tearing the backing along each of the perforated lines. This will allow you to apply each section individually, creating a more effective application.
Step 1: With subject standing, peel the backing from half of section 1 and apply (with no stretch in the tape) at the base of the lower back. Remove the remaining backing from section 1 and apply. Gently rub the tape from the center toward the outside to activate the glue.
Step 2: Have subject bend forward into a curled position to obtain maximum stretch of the back extensor muscles. If necessary, the arms can be used to support the upper body against the thighs.
Step 3: Begin peeling the backing from the left “arm” of section 2, and begin applying the tape (with no additional stretch) along the muscles directly left of the spine. Continue removing the backing and pressing the tape against the skin until the entire strip has been applied.
Step 4: Begin peeling the backing from the right “arm” of section 2, and begin applying the tape (with no additional stretch) along the muscles directly right of the spine. Continue removing the backing and pressing the tape against the skin until the entire strip has been applied.
Step 5: Begin peeling the backing from the outer right arm of section 3, and apply the tape (with no additional stretch) in the direction of the right armpit. Continue peeling away the backing and applying the tape until the entire section has been applied.
Step 6: Begin peeling the backing from the outer left arm of section 3, and apply the tape (with no additional stretch) in the direction of the left armpit. Continue peeling away the backing and applying the tape until the entire section has been applied.
Kinesiology Tape for Back Pain in Cyclists
posted by Tape Expert @ 1:08 PM
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Pain in the lower back and upper buttocks area is common in competitive cyclists. The combination of the severe forward leaning posture and the intense exertion of the muscles of the upper leg and gluteals puts constant squeezing pressure on the muscles and nerves in this area. Once inflammation develops it can be extremely difficult to get rid of for cyclists who train and/or compete daily.
Not only is this condition painful, but it can also negatively affect performance as the body tries to protect the painful area by decreasing muscle activation. Even those who are tough enough to “pedal through the pain” may find that they are no longer able to race as fast or as far.
A new solution being used by more and more competitive cyclists is kinesiology tape. This thin, stretchy, therapeutic tape can be worn on any injured or painful area and produce rapid relief of both pain and inflammation. Because a single application can be worn for several days, it is ideal for cyclists during lengthy races.
The quickest and simplest type of kinesiology taping is to use pre-cut kinesiology tape, made by SpiderTech. SpiderTech makes 15 different individually packaged, precut applications for different parts of the body. The SpiderTech Low Back application has become a mainstay in the sports bags of many competitive cyclists.
Dotsie Bausch, one of the world’s top female cyclists, described her experience with the SpiderTech Low Back Spider this way.
In 2008, I was diagnosed with Piriformis syndrome which is a condition in which the piriformis muscle irritates the sciatic nerve, causing pain in the buttocks and referring pain along the course of the sciatic nerve. This referred pain, called “sciatica”, often goes down the back of the thigh and/or into the lower back. I was having excruciating pain and numbness in my back and quads. It was causing me so much pain, that I had to miss out on some big races.
Enter: Spider Tech tape. Now that I use the lower back tape regularly, during hard events and after, as well as through all of my travels both flying and driving, I am pain free and one happy camper! It is truly remarkable the way the tape works. It is easy to use, does not irritate the skin, stays on for an entire week or more, and it does its job! It is a remarkable solution to pain with so much to offer the world by freeing people of their ibuprophen and aspirin addictions for the treatment of acute pain. I love Spider Tech and am a believer for life.
My next post will provide step-by-step instructions, plus a video for applying precut kinesiology tape for the lower back. Until then, happy cycling!
Long distance competitive cycling is a one of the most grueling endurance sports in existence. Hour after hour of pedaling up and down some of the most mountainous terrain in the world takes a huge toll on the knees, thigh muscles and calf muscles as they scream for relief. In addition, the forward leaning posture of cycling creates long-term stress and strain on the muscles of the neck and back. With many races conducted over days (or even weeks), there is virtually no time for overused, fatigued joints and muscles to properly recover.
Cyclists are always looking for ways to accelerate their bodys’ recovery – both from intense exertion and from injuries. Recently, more and more racers have been turning to a unique and effective tool that helps in both of these areas.
This exciting new discovery is kinesiology tape, the very thin, very lightweight, very stretchy, colored tape that has been seen on numerous athletes since coming to prominence in the Beijing Olympics. Applied over a fatigued muscle, kinesiology tape accelerates the recovery process by increasing blood flow and removal of waste products. Applied to an injured joint, it can prevent harmful movement while still allowing a safe range of motion. This is a huge benefit to professional athletes who prefer to continue training and/or competing through minor injuries.
One team that has benefitted greatly from kinesiology taping is Team Planet Energy, Canada’s top professional cycling team. Team Planet Energy uses SpiderTech Pre-Cut Kinesiology Tape on a regular basis, for both training and competing.
Team Planet Energy rider Ryan Roth said, “I’ve used SpiderTech combined with treatment … and was quickly able to resolve the trouble I was having with my knee with very little training time lost. I’ve continued using SpiderTech during my recovery and as a preventative measure.”
