Kinesiology tape is a flexible, elastic therapeutic tool designed to provide support and encourage the body’s natural healing processes without restricting movement. Applied to the skin, this tape gently lifts the superficial layers, which may improve circulation and lymphatic drainage beneath the application area. The deltoid muscle forms the rounded contour of the shoulder and consists of three distinct heads: anterior (flexion), medial (abduction), and posterior (extension) fibers. Taping the deltoid aims to offer mild mechanical support, enhance proprioception—the body’s sense of position—and help manage discomfort by providing sensory stimulation.
Preparation and Necessary Materials
Proper preparation of the skin is important for maximizing the tape’s adherence and therapeutic effect. Before application, the skin over the deltoid must be thoroughly cleaned to remove any oils, lotions, or sweat that could weaken the adhesive. Using a specialized skin prep wipe or rubbing alcohol ensures a clean surface, which must then be dried completely before application.
If the area has significant hair, trimming it short is advisable to ensure better tape contact and less irritating removal. Necessary materials include a roll of kinesiology tape, typically two inches wide, along with sharp scissors. To prevent premature peeling from friction, all corners of the tape strips should be carefully rounded after cutting the desired length.
Measuring the tape accurately requires the arm to be positioned neutrally. For general support, a long strip is measured from the deltoid tuberosity on the upper arm up to the clavicle and scapular spine, covering the entire muscle belly. The length should be assessed while the arm is relaxed at the side, ensuring the tape does not pull or bunch during movement.
Application Technique for General Deltoid Support
Supporting the entire deltoid muscle involves using a single strip cut into a Y-shape, anchored by the solid base. The base of this Y-strip, applied with zero tension, should be placed over the deltoid tuberosity, located mid-way down the side of the upper arm. Positioning the arm correctly is necessary to place the muscle on a gentle stretch, ensuring the tape follows the contour of the fibers.
To apply the anterior tail of the Y, the arm is gently moved into extension and external rotation, placing the anterior deltoid fibers on a slight stretch. The tape tail is then laid over these fibers, following the natural curve up toward the clavicle, using a light stretch of about 10 to 15 percent. This slight tension assists with muscle facilitation, promoting awareness of movement.
Next, the posterior tail of the Y-strip is applied by positioning the arm in flexion, adduction, and internal rotation to lengthen the posterior deltoid fibers. This tail is smoothly applied over the rear fibers, tracing the path up to the spine of the scapula using the same light tension. After both tails are secured, the entire application should be rubbed vigorously to activate the heat-sensitive adhesive.
Targeted Taping for Pain and Decompression
An alternative application method focuses on localized discomfort, such as a specific trigger point or inflammation within the muscle belly. This technique, known as a decompression strip application, aims to lift the skin and underlying fascia away from the painful area. The exact point of the most intense pain is located through gentle palpation before the arm position is adjusted to slightly stretch the affected muscle fibers.
A short I-strip of tape, usually two to three inches long, is prepared for this technique. Unlike general support, this method requires a high degree of stretch (75 to 100 percent tension) applied only to the central section of the strip. The backing paper is torn in the middle, and the center is placed directly over the site of pain, applying the strong stretch as the strip is laid down.
The ends of the short I-strip, known as the anchors, are then applied without any stretch to ensure they adhere securely to the skin. The high tension in the center creates characteristic wrinkles, or convolutions, in the tape and skin when the arm returns to a neutral position. This lifting action helps relieve pressure on pain receptors and promote localized fluid movement. This targeted application is effective for isolated discomfort and can be used with the longer Y-strip technique.
Guidelines for Wear Time and Safe Removal
Kinesiology tape is designed to be worn for approximately three to five days, providing continuous therapeutic benefit throughout daily activities and exercise. The tape is water-resistant, allowing for showering, but the application should be patted or air-dried immediately afterward to prevent irritation and maintain the adhesive bond. The tape should be removed immediately if any signs of skin irritation develop, such as intense itching, redness, or a rash.
To remove the tape safely and minimize skin trauma, pull the skin away from the tape rather than pulling the tape directly off the skin. Rolling the tape back slowly in the direction of hair growth is a useful technique to reduce discomfort. Applying a small amount of baby oil, olive oil, or soapy water before removal helps break down the adhesive, making the process easier. Taping should not be attempted over areas of broken skin, open wounds, or known skin fragility, as the adhesive could cause further damage or infection.