With technological advancement, we are now spoilt with many choices of athletic tape. When you sustain an injured joint, it is important to have it treated and cared for to prevent further injury. The purpose of using athletic tape is to provide support to the injured area.
Let’s discuss the different types of athletic tapes and how they service different purposes.
If you are into sports and had sustained injuries previously, you can find out more about sports physiotherapy here.
Elastic Bandages
Elastic bandages, also known as compression bandages, are a type of bandage that is made from stretchy, elastic material. They are used to wrap around an injured or swollen body part in order to provide support and compression, which can help reduce pain, inflammation, and swelling.
Elastic bandages are typically made from a combination of cotton, nylon, or polyester, and have elastic fibers woven into the material. They are available in various sizes and lengths and can be cut to fit the specific areas of the body that needs to be wrapped. Some elastic bandages also have a self-adhesive or velcro closure, which makes them easier to secure in place and provide moderate support.
Elastic bandages are commonly used to treat a wide range of injuries, such as sprains, strains, and bruises. They can also be used to help manage swelling and edema in patients with circulatory disorders or after surgery. The compression provided by the elastic bandage helps to reduce the amount of fluid buildup in the affected area, which can help speed up the healing process.
When applying an elastic bandage, it’s important to wrap it snugly but not too tightly, as excessive compression can cause pain, numbness, and tingling. It’s also important to make sure that the bandage is not wrapped too loosely, as this can reduce the effectiveness of providing support. If you have any concerns or questions about how to apply an elastic bandage, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional for guidance.
Rigid Tape
Rigid tape is a type of adhesive tape that is commonly used in sports and athletic activities to provide support, stability, and protection to joints and muscles. It is made from a strong, durable material that does not easily stretch or move, allowing it to provide a high degree of support and stability.
Rigid tape is the most common traditional taping used to support and protect joints such as the ankle, knee, wrist, and elbow. It can be applied directly to the skin or over a layer of pre-wrap or padding, and is usually secured in place with a combination of adhesive and pressure.
It’s important to note that while rigid tape can provide support and stability, allowing athletes to continue with their sports, it is not a substitute for proper medical care and should not be used as the sole treatment for an injury or medical condition. If you have a medical condition or have been injured, it’s important to seek the advice of a healthcare professional before using rigid tape or any other type of treatment.
Kinesiology Sports Tape
Kinesiology tape, also known as kinesio tape or k tape, is a type of flexible, stretchy adhesive tape that is used in sports and rehabilitation settings to support muscles and joints, reduce pain and inflammation, and improve circulation and mobility.
Kinesiology tape is made from a thin, elastic cotton material with a medical-grade adhesive on one side. It is stuck directly onto human skin. It is designed to stretch in all directions, which allows it to move with the body and provide support without restricting range of motion. The adhesive is also designed to be gentle on the skin and to allow for easy removal without causing irritation or discomfort.
Kinesiology tape is applied to the skin and soft tissue, following specific patterns and techniques that are designed to achieve specific therapeutic goals. The tension and direction of the tape are carefully adjusted to provide support, relieve pain, and improve circulation and lymphatic drainage.
While kinesiology tape can be an effective treatment option for many people, it is important to note that it should not be used as a substitute for proper medical care. If you have a medical condition or have been injured, it’s important to seek the advice of a healthcare professional before using kinesiology tape or any other type of treatment.
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What are the Differences Between the Tapes?
Rigid athletic tape used to be the traditional athletic tape most commonly used. As the name suggests, rigid tape is a supportive tape that supports the joint. At the same time, it limits the range of motion of the joint hence providing a lot of stability.
Kinesiology tape on the other hand is commonly used in sports medicine to support an injured joint. This elastic tape is flexible and moves with the body, thereby providing dynamic support to the joint while relieving pain.
Compression bandage is commonly used at home to provide support to the joint. By applying some pressure to the joint, it helps with pain relief and at the same time reduce swelling to the joint. It is important to have the bandage wrapped tightly around the joint. However, if you are experiencing numbness or discolouration to the area, the bandage is to be removed immediately.
In summary, rigid tape provides strong support and stability but limits natural movement, while kinesiology tape is more flexible and moves with the body, providing support while allowing for natural movement. The choice of which tape to use depends on the specific needs and goals of the individual and is often determined by your physiotherapist.
If you are unsure what tape is best suited for your situation, give us a call to book an appointment to see our Doreen physio.