Knee bursitis occurs when the small, fluid-filled sacs within the knee joint, known as bursae, become inflamed. Bursae normally function as cushions, reducing friction between bones, tendons, and muscles. Irritation, often due to repetitive kneeling, a direct blow, or overuse, results in localized pain, swelling, and tenderness. This article provides practical instructions on using elastic therapeutic tape (Kinesiology Tape or KT Tape) to help manage these symptoms.
Understanding the Goal of Taping for Bursitis
The application of elastic therapeutic tape for bursitis aims to manage discomfort and reduce swelling without restricting knee movement. Unlike rigid athletic tape that provides mechanical stability, this specialized tape is designed to work with the skin’s natural elasticity. The primary mechanism involves gently lifting the top layers of the skin away from the underlying tissue.
This microscopic lift creates a slight space between the skin and the affected bursa, helping to decompress the area and reduce pressure on pain receptors. This lifting action also creates a pressure gradient that can enhance circulation and open up pathways for the body’s lymphatic system. Improved lymphatic drainage helps to flush away excess fluid and inflammatory byproducts, reducing local swelling. The tape also provides continuous sensory feedback, which may help improve awareness of the knee’s position and encourage better movement patterns.
Preparation and Necessary Materials
Preparation ensures the tape adheres well and stays in place. You will need Kinesiology Tape, sharp scissors, and a skin preparation solution like rubbing alcohol or a specialized skin prep wipe. The skin must be clean, dry, and free of oils or lotions, as these will prevent the adhesive from bonding effectively.
If there is excessive hair, it may need to be trimmed or shaved to ensure the tape sticks directly to the skin and minimize discomfort during removal. The knee should be positioned in a slightly bent, relaxed state, around a 10 to 20-degree angle, to accommodate the tape’s stretch during movement. Once the tape strips are cut, all edges should be rounded using scissors. This step reduces the likelihood of the corners catching on clothing and peeling prematurely.
Step-by-Step Application Guide
The most effective technique for knee bursitis, particularly for the common prepatellar bursa, combines a decompression strip and lymphatic drainage strips, often referred to as a “fan” or “octopus” pattern. First, measure a single I-strip long enough to cover the swollen area, extending a few inches above and below it, then round the edges. This strip is the primary decompression anchor, placed directly over the point of maximum tenderness using 25 to 50 percent stretch over the bursa.
To apply the decompression strip, tear the paper backing in the middle, exposing the adhesive while leaving the ends covered. Place the center of the tape directly over the swollen bursa with the required stretch and smooth it down. The ends of the strip, known as the anchors, must be laid down onto the skin with no stretch to ensure they adhere securely and prevent pulling.
Next, prepare the lymphatic fan by cutting a long piece of tape, leaving about two inches intact at one end for the anchor, and cutting the remainder lengthwise into four or five narrow tails. The anchor end should be placed without stretch on the thigh, pointing toward the nearest lymph nodes (e.g., in the groin area). The individual tails are then applied over the swollen area, fanning out to cover the bursa.
Each tail should be laid down with very light tension, often referred to as “paper-off” tension (0 to 15 percent stretch). The tails are positioned in a crisscross or wave-like pattern over the swollen bursa, avoiding excessive overlap. After all strips are applied, rub the entire application vigorously with the backing paper or your hand to generate heat. This heat activates the tape’s acrylic adhesive and ensures a strong bond. This technique creates the characteristic wrinkle in the tape when the knee moves, indicating the skin lift needed for decompression and fluid management.
Tape Removal and Important Precautions
Kinesiology tape is designed to be worn for a maximum of three to five days, during which time it can withstand showering and light activity. After this period, the tape should be removed to allow the skin to breathe and check for irritation. When removing the tape, pull it off slowly and gently in the direction of hair growth to avoid pain or skin stripping.
Applying baby oil, lotion, or soaking the tape in warm water during a shower can help dissolve the adhesive and make removal easier. Contraindications include applying the tape over open wounds, areas of active skin infection, or if you have a known allergy to the acrylic adhesive.
Individuals with deep vein thrombosis (DVT) should avoid using the tape, as increased circulation could potentially dislodge a blood clot. If you experience increased pain, numbness, tingling, or significant skin redness and itching, the tape must be removed immediately. Consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan before relying on taping as a sole solution.