A Brief History of Kinesio Tex Taping®

Dr Kenzo Kase - 2008

The Kinesio Taping® technique and Kinesio Tex tape was developed by Dr. Kenzo Kase in Japan over 25 yrs ago. Dr. Kase had been searching for a sports taping method to assist in the healing of traumatised tissue. He found that standard taping techniques, such as athletic taping and strapping, provided muscle and joint support, however, they reduced range of motion, did not support the fascia and, in many cases, inhibited the actual healing process of traumatised tissue. A new treatment approach was needed.

In 1973 Dr Kase developed Kinesio® Tex, and the Kinesio Taping® method. Kinesio Taping's key differentiator is its ability to aid the lymphatic and muscle systems, while supporting joints and muscles. For many, the Kinesio Taping® applications are a major breakthrough which substantially reduce recovery times and improve fitness levels. Kinesio Taping® saw worldwide exposure during the 1988 Seoul Olympics. Since then, Kinesio® has become one of the fastest growing sport treatment modalities in the world.

To ensure the continuous development of the Kinesio Taping® technique, Dr Kase also founded the International Kineiso Taping Association. The KTA fulfils two functions. The first is to work with academic bodies to undertake clinical research. The second function is to bring together the latest research and offer the highest quality of training to practitioners.

In 2004, the UK saw the official introduction of Kinesio Taping®, and the setup of the official Kinesio UK office. The office administrates and co-ordinates the running of official certified Kinesio Taping Association courses. Over 4000 practitioners have now been trained in the UK - many of whom look after some of the UK's top sporting athletes. These include Team GB, the UK Olympic teams, football clubs, rugby clubs and tennis associations. The UK office also serves as the head supplier for Kinesio Tex tape to resellers within the UK.

The UK office also works with academic establishments. Despite its late introduction to the UK, the UK is at the forefront in researching the effectiveness of Kinesio for sports injuries. The UK is also a lead contributor in the use of Kinesio Taping for Lymphoedema and Paediatrics treatment.

Dr Kenzo Kase continues to dedicate his life to the research and the development of the Kinesio Taping® method. Based in Japan, Dr Kenzo Kase is contracted by the Japanese Health Ministry to provide a national program of Kinesio courses to Japanese practitioners. He is also a senior lecturer and international speaker.

What is Kinesio Tex®?

Kinesio Tex Tape

Kinesio® Tex is a specialist tape designed for Kinesio Taping® treatment. Designed and manufactured by Kinesio®, Kinesio® Tex is recognised as the only tape that uniquely meets the requirements for the Kinesio Taping® technique. Its properties are very different from traditional athletic tapes and it has been developed to give optimum results when treating muscular disorders and lymphoedema reduction.

The Kinesio Taping® method involves taping over and around muscles to assist and give support and prevent over-contraction. Kinesio Tex® is different to other athletic tapes as it is designed to give support whilst maintaining full range of motion, and it facilitates lymphatic flow 24 hours a day.

Some features of Kinesio Tex Tape® are:

• 100% cotton and latex free
• Elasticity of up to 30-40% from resting length
• Tape is applied with 10% stretch
• Medical grade, heat sensitive acrylic adhesive
• Allows the skin to breathe
• Thickness and weight approximates that of skin
• Easily tolerated
• Allows range of motion and does not restrict like conventional athletic tape
• Elastic properties support and reduce muscle fatigue
• Facilitated myofascial release and improves lymphatic flow - in turn reducing pain and swelling
• Can be worn for several days (3-5) without re-application
• Cost effective patient management (6-10 applications per roll)

Conditions Treated

Kinesio treats a wide variety of conditions due to its ability to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, relax the muscles, enhance performance and facilitate rehabilitation while supporting muscles in movement.

Kinesio® Tex can assist many conditions including: