What should you know about Sissel kinesiology tape?

Kinesiology tape stretches with movement and may change how the skin and tissues are sensed during activity. A therapist may use it to cue posture, support a movement pattern or make an area feel more comfortable while exercises address strength and control. Tape is an adjunct, not a brace or a substitute for assessment. It cannot stabilize a serious injury or correct a structural problem by itself.

Apply tape to clean, dry, intact skin and avoid cuts, rashes, infection, oil or freshly shaved areas. A trained therapist can select the direction and tension for the goal; excessive pulling can irritate skin or restrict comfort. Rub the tape gently to activate the adhesive, keep it dry as advised, and remove it slowly while supporting the skin. Stop if itching, burning, blistering or increasing pain develops.

Remove the tape and contact a clinician if redness spreads, the skin becomes very painful, blisters appear, or swelling develops under or around the tape. Seek urgent care for breathing difficulty or facial swelling after application. Get medical assessment for severe pain, deformity, loss of strength or new numbness rather than covering those symptoms with tape.

Ask what movement the tape is meant to support, how much tension is appropriate, how long to wear it, how to remove it, and which exercises should accompany it.