Why is kinesiology tape used in kinesiology taping?

The tape stretches with the skin and can make movement feel more guided. The contact may remind you to change a posture or movement pattern, while the flexible material allows a joint to keep moving. A physiotherapist chooses the direction, tension, and placement according to your symptoms and the task you are practising.

Tape is an addition to rehabilitation, not a substitute for strengthening, mobility work, or assessment. It does not repair a torn structure or guarantee pain relief. Some people notice a useful change, while others notice little difference.

Apply it to clean, dry skin as instructed, and avoid placing it over an open wound, active rash, or irritated area. Check the skin after application and keep the edges smooth. Do not pull the tape tightly enough to cause tingling, colour change, throbbing, or increased pain.

Remove it slowly if it feels uncomfortable, ideally while supporting the skin. Tell your physiotherapist about adhesive sensitivity, eczema, fragile skin, or a previous reaction so another approach can be considered.

Remove the tape and contact your clinician if you develop spreading redness, blistering, marked itching, burning, swelling, or worsening pain. Seek urgent help for facial swelling, breathing difficulty, or a rapidly spreading allergic reaction. Do not use tape to delay assessment of a new injury with deformity, inability to bear weight, or severe swelling.

What movement or symptom is this tape intended to address? How long should I wear it? How should I remove it? What skin changes mean I should stop? Which exercises should I continue while it is in place?