What is kinesiology tape?
Kinesiology tape is a thin, stretchy cotton tape with a sticky back. You may have seen it in bright colours on athletes’ shoulders and knees.
A physiotherapist applies it in set patterns, and it can stay on for a few days, even in the shower.
What does it do?
Some people say the tape reminds the area to move well, or eases the feeling of pain. The evidence that it changes the tissue itself is modest, so it is best seen as a small helper alongside exercise.
If a physiotherapist suggests it, ask what they hope it will do and when you will review whether it is helping.
What should I watch for?
Skin is the main concern. Remove the tape gently if it itches, blisters, or turns the skin red, and let the skin rest before trying again.
Tell the physiotherapist if you have fragile or allergic skin, and keep adhesive tape away from open wounds.
An everyday example in Ipoh
A runner who trains along the Polo Ground in the late afternoon has a niggling kneecap ache. The physiotherapist tapes the knee and teaches her a hip and thigh strengthening routine, because the tape alone will not change how the knee is loaded.
In the humid heat she finds the tape lifts at the edges after a sweaty run, so she learns to press it down and to dry it by patting, not rubbing.
Related terms and our pages
- Core stability: trunk control that supports the limbs.
- Graded exposure: returning to activity in small steps.
See sports injuries, ankle sprain and shoulder pain for where taping may fit.