Kinesiology Taping

What is it?

Kinesiology Tape (KT) is an adhesive tape applied to the hair (or in the case of humans, the skin) to lift and decompress the underlying tissue.

What does it do?

  • Decompresses tissue

  • Increases circulation

  • Improve lymphatic flow

  • Supports joints

  • Relieves muscle pain

  • Relaxes trigger points

  • Reduces muscle fatigue

  • Unwinds fascia

  • Decreases edema

  • Reduces nerve pain

  • Enhances proprioception

Before: Inflamed muscle with compressed: fascia, blood vessels, pain sensors, and lymph vessels.

After: The skin has been lifted in micro-ridges to create more space for the structures in and under the skin.
Pain reduction due to decompressed nerve cells; improved blood flow and lymph drainage due to decompressed vessels; and improved movement due to reduced fascial restrictions.

How does it do?

1) Tape sticks to the horse’s hair, lifting the underlying skin. Grab a few of your arm hairs and gently lift. Notice how the skin tents a bit?

2) The tissues under the skin are all connected. When the skin is lifted, so are the underlying muscles, nerves, lymphatic system, and fascia.

3) With more space, the circulatory and lymphatic systems can work more effectively. With more space, the nerves that send pain signals to the brain are not so active. With more space, the muscles and fascia glide more effectively and with less pain.

If you’re interested in learning on a deeper level how kinesiology tape works, why it works, how it interacts with the nervous system, and a few simple taping techniques, set up an appointment with Kelly at Serenity Farm in Berthoud. Our horses are happy to demonstrate the effects of KT as Kelly guides you though some of her favorite taping applications.

Group and individual appointments welcome! Rates vary due to the customization of the session to the student’s interests.