Physiotherapists at PhysioNorth practice three main taping techniques: White Athletic Taping, McConnell Taping Technique, and Kinesio Taping Technique.
White Althetic Taping
White athletic taping technique is used to prevent re-injuries. It is normally left on for a short period of time; applied immediately prior to an activity and taken off immediately thereafter. Taping is thus used to provide support to a joint that has been previously injured. It can also be used in the case of acute injuries to provide compression to an area for decreasing swelling and preventing injury.
McConnell Taping Technique
McConnell Taping is a bracing or strapping technique using a super-rigid, cotton mesh highly adhesive tape. This technique is most commonly used for patellafemoral syndrome, shoulder subluxation/postural dysfunction, and lumbar, foot, and hip impingement. McConnell taping affects the biomechanics of a joint and is primarily used for neuromuscular re-education of the affected condition.
Kinesio Taping Technique (K-Taping)
Kinesio taping is a therapeutic taping technique that provides support to an injured joint while rehabilitating the affected area as well. This technique uses a highly specific designed tape that works with the body allowing full range of motion (ROM). The tape is applied over muscles to reduce pain and inflammation, relax overused tired muscles, and to support muscles in movement on a 24hr/day basis. Kinesio taping works with the lymphatic system to increase circulation of blood and lymph in order to rehabilitate and relieve pain and can be used to treat many clinical conditions.