Kinesiology tape is an elastic therapeutic tool recognized by its colorful, flexible strips often seen on athletes. This tape is designed to mimic the elasticity of human skin, providing gentle support to underlying structures while allowing a full range of motion. When applied correctly to the knee, its goal is to alleviate discomfort and offer mild stabilization without restricting movement. Proper application requires attention to skin preparation, correct tension, and precise placement around the joint.
Preparing the Skin and Tape Strips
Successful application requires the skin to be completely clean and dry. Natural body oils, lotions, or sweat interfere with the adhesive, leading to premature peeling and reduced wear time. Use rubbing alcohol or mild soap and water to clean the application area thoroughly.
If there is substantial hair growth, trimming or shaving the area is necessary to ensure the tape adheres directly to the skin and prevents discomfort during removal. After cleaning, the skin must be fully air-dried before taping. To prepare the strips, measure the required length with the knee slightly bent. Cut the corners of the tape into rounded shapes to prevent sharp edges from catching on clothing, which helps prevent premature peeling.
Step-by-Step Application for General Knee Support
For general support and pain relief around the kneecap, a common and effective technique uses two strips, often in an “I” or “Y” shape, to frame the patella. Begin by positioning the knee in a slightly flexed position, typically 20 to 30 degrees. This slight bend ensures the tape is applied with appropriate tension, allowing the skin to stretch over the joint so that therapeutic wrinkles form when the knee straightens.
Use a full-length strip for the first application. Tear the backing about two inches from one end to create an anchor, placing it without stretch on the upper thigh, roughly halfway up the quadriceps muscle. After securing the anchor, peel back the remaining paper and apply the tape with a moderate therapeutic stretch (25% to 50% tension), running the strip down the outer edge of the kneecap. The final two inches of the strip should be applied without stretch, securing the end near the side of the calf.
The second strip is applied similarly, anchoring it on the inner thigh, parallel to the first strip’s starting point. Apply the strip with the same tension, running it down the inner edge of the kneecap. The two strips should frame the patella, creating a supportive border around the joint. Alternatively, use a “Y” strip, anchoring the base above the knee and splitting the tails to cup around the patella, following the quadriceps tendons.
After applying both strips, rub the entire surface vigorously with your hand. This friction generates heat, which activates the acrylic-based adhesive and creates a stronger, longer-lasting bond. When the knee is fully extended, the final application should result in small wrinkles, or convolutions, appearing on the tape. These wrinkles indicate proper tension and skin-lifting action, providing mild mechanical support and enhancing proprioceptive feedback for the joint.
How Kinesiology Tape Interacts With Tissue
Kinesiology tape functions through mechanical and neurological interactions with the skin and underlying soft tissues. The tape’s elastic properties gently lift the outermost skin layers, creating microscopic spaces between the dermis and the muscle fascia. This subtle lifting reduces pressure on pain receptors beneath the skin, which can lead to an immediate sensation of pain reduction.
This lifting action also helps improve circulation and lymphatic drainage in the taped area. By decompressing the space under the skin, the tape encourages the movement of fluid and waste products away from injured or inflamed tissue. This facilitation of fluid dynamics assists in reducing localized swelling and promotes a healthier healing environment.
The tape also interacts with the somatosensory system by providing enhanced sensory feedback, known as proprioception. The constant, light pulling force stimulates mechanoreceptors in the skin, sending signals to the brain about the joint’s position and movement. This improved body awareness helps individuals maintain proper alignment and posture during activity, offering functional support without the restriction of rigid athletic tape.
Duration of Wear and Safety Considerations
Kinesiology tape is designed to be worn for extended periods, typically remaining effective for three to five days. Individuals can shower or swim while wearing the tape, but they should pat it dry immediately afterward to preserve the adhesive bond. The tape should be removed immediately if any signs of irritation, itching, or increased redness develop under or around the edges.
Removal should be done gently to avoid causing skin trauma, especially for individuals with fragile or sensitive skin. Applying baby oil or olive oil to the tape can help dissolve the adhesive. Peel the tape slowly in the direction of hair growth to minimize discomfort. Kinesiology taping is not suitable for everyone and has specific contraindications.
The tape should never be applied over open wounds, cuts, or active skin infections, as it can trap moisture and increase the risk of bacterial growth. Individuals with specific medical conditions should consult a healthcare professional before use. Taping is contraindicated for those with a known deep vein thrombosis, as increased circulation could potentially dislodge a blood clot. Caution is also advised for individuals with uncontrolled diabetes or fragile skin due to age or certain medications.