Kinesiology tape can be used by both a physical therapist as well as sports practitioners to stabilize the functions of the muscle tendons and joints. It also controls the contraction of muscles and is used to reduce swelling and pain. This is an easy treatment that anyone can perform. It’s as easy as applying tape to an affected organ. However, it is more complicated than that. There is a precise technique for cutting the tape as well as a method for applying the tape to the muscles. After a thorough assessment of your injury, the tape will be applied according to the body’s needs. You must also use the right type of kinesiology taping and know the proper ratio of tape to muscle. Your physical therapist can help you learn more about the various types of tape strips as well as how to apply them. There are many types and shapes of kinesiology tape available.

The I tape

The i-strip is one of the most basic and common building blocks of taping. It is used to make other tape patterns such as lift petrol and fan pattern. They are most commonly used for supporting muscle, tendon, and ligaments. It’s simply a piece of tape with rounded corners that cannot be pulled.

The X strip

It is composed of two I strips. It covers large areas and multiple joint areas.

The Y strip

It is easy to make the y strip by cutting an X-strip in half. It can also be used to cover sensitive areas such as behind the knee or in front of your elbow. It is used to adjust the knee cap’s position. However, it is shorter than an X-strip.

The Fan strip

This strip is used to manage swelling and diseases like lymphedema. To make fans, simply cut the strip. Then I cut three more times leaving approximately 1-2 inches. Finally, I cut it so that the ends stay connected.

The Lift strip

A lift strip, also known as a “band-aid strip”, is used to support damaged tissues or treat knots in tissues. It is also used to treat conditions like plantar fasciitis. The strip is cut and applied to the affected muscles in such a manner that the muscle is stretched 75%-100%.