Applications for Biomechanical Taping and Kinesiotaping in Athletics.

Abstract

Background: Kinesiology taping (KT) is a popular therapeutic modality used by athletes for sports performance enhancement. The objective of this presentation is to demonstrate appropriate KT techniques for a variety of pathologies among athletes.

Indications: KT can be used to enhance athletic performance by improving strength, range of motion, and proprioception. Several application sites are commonly used in athletics for various pathologies.

Technique description: A variety of KT techniques are applied to specific joints to support athletic performance. For the ankle, the tape is applied beginning on the lateral surface of the leg, wrapping around the lateral ankle, and ending on the dorsal aspect of the foot. For the foot, a "figure 8" is applied over the metatarsal heads and along the dorsum of the foot for stability and pain control. Long Y strips are utilized to help reduce muscle fatigue and improve range of motion of the calf and shoulder, namely, the deltoid and supraspinatus muscle groups in the latter application. KT strips are used to guide the patella into a more desirable position to address patellar tracking and pain. For the biceps, an I strip of kinesiology tape is applied across its entire length from the distal insertion to the origin to enhance muscle strength and torque.

Results: Evidence supports KT for short-term improvements in muscle balance, fatigue resistance, range of motion, and pain control.

Discussion/conclusion: There appears to be a role for KT in meeting short-term athletic demands such as muscle balance, fatigue resistance, range of motion, and pain control across a variety of muscle groups. The use of proper KT technique maximizes its effectiveness as a therapeutic tool for athletes and minimizes the risk of undesirable side effects.

Patient consent disclosure statement: The author(s) attests that consent has been obtained from any patient(s) appearing in this publication. If the individual may be identifiable, the author(s) has included a statement of release or other written form of approval from the patient(s) with this submission for publication.