Kinesiotaping

Use of elastic therapeutic taping (ETT) on sternocleidomastoid muscle in infants with congenital muscular torticollis.                                                                On which side of the child’s neck should tape be applied in the case of congenital muscular torticollis (CMT)? Is it the weak lengthened (unaffected) side, or the short (affected) side? This question was posed by a colleague and answering it resulted in this Clinical Note. The contents reflect the newest insights on this subject.

The Brooker and Franklin study prompted this Clinical Note. The authors published their findings regarding the effect of colour on children’s cognitive performance. Findings suggest that colour can affect children’s cognitive performance and that there is a detrimental effect of red. These findings had previously been documented in adults also. In their paper de implications for educational contexts are discussed. After having read everything I could find on the topic, I am sticking to my decision and advice not to use the colour red (in all its varieties) when applying tape to children, especially young and vulnerable children.

Myocardial infarction is the leading cause of death and disability worldwide. Bulgaria has increased the incidence of this disease and the average age is about 50 years old and suffers mostly males. The latest data [4, 8, 9, 10] rehabilitation of these patients reflects favorably on the quality of life. Numerous studies have shown that early conducting of cardiorehabilitation recovery, prevent future vascular incident, improved control of risk factors and improves the quality of life for patients with cardiovascular diseases [1, 5, 6]. It is generally accepted that the basis of the rehabilitation program in patients with AMI and held the PCI are dosed exercise. It includes training, control of risk factors, psychological and social assistance and exercise of low and moderate intensity [2, 3, 7]. Aim of the study is study the effect of the application of a comprehensive program for physical therapy in patients with acute myocardial infarction treated with thrombolysis. Hospital rehabilitation program has duration 3-5 days in uncomplicated heart attacks. During hospital rehabilitation, optimal number of classes is up to two times per day for the duration 5-20 min. The appropriate intensity applied exercise is determined based

Naar aanleiding van het plaatsen van het verslag genaamd ‘Medical Taping bij het kwijlen’ op de  website van Fysiotape een reactie. Deze lijkt nodig daar er veel ontbreekt en een aantal onjuistheden staan in deze beschrijving (mening) van een collega. Als bedenkster van de s-tape voel ik mij aangesproken en geef ik hierbij update met best practice aanbevelingen.

We have not been paying enough attention to skin; our largest sensory organ system. A number of skin properties are not to be found in current medical text books. Could knowledge of cells changing shape, Cutaneous Functional Units, organ-zones, Skin Tension lines be important? Does it help the understanding how pain is influenced by using elastic tape therapeutically? The literature review conducted found that many variables make interpreting studies about Kinesiology taping to address pain very challenging. Have we overrated the importance of Systematic Review's? Do we miss out on interesting new developments if we do not take all research into account? Is any study about Kinesiology Tape of any importance if the authors have not taken the skin into account? Outcomes of case reports and studies about the effects of skin stretch by means of tape can be of great importance to clinicians. Not knowing the exact process, whereby we address pain with a skin stimulus such as tape, should not be holding us back. Skin is our way in, and our best guide. Our patients' brain knows if this tape application and stimulus is good yes or no. It is Evidence Based Practice with the patient actively participating.

Using tape to address constipation in adolescents and adults with cerebral palsy.
An epidemiological survey of nutritional and gastrointestinal problems by Elawad  indicated that 26% of children with cerebral palsy experienced constipation. I have to conclude that the use of laxatives and medication and other classical medical therapies do not produce the greatest of results. Sadly insufficient studies on the use of kinesio tape (KT) on constipation have been conducted so far. Literature review of papers I am aware of.

CONSIDERATIONS Children with thumb in palm deformity do not have a local problem. This deformity restricts hand function, making the use of fingertips to manipulate a lot more challenging. The somatosensory input will differ to those of children without Cerebral Palsy (CP). In general, when we apply tape to trunk or extremities, we notice that hypertonic muscles 'relax' and 'weaker' muscles activate. The Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS) scores lower making more variation in movement and function possible. We can see our patients exploring their possibilities and having fun doing so.

There are clear differences of opinion between health professionals using tape regarding this matter. Some are more than happy to apply alcohol, baby wipes, medical sprays, sunscreens and tape adhesives under their tapes. Some are not so sure if this is a such good idea. A recent discussion in a FB group around this issue prompted this reflection.

Background and Purpose: The purpose of this case report is to present and address the effectiveness of a treatment with kinesiology tape serving as a dynamic orthotic to correct genu valgum in a toddler patient with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) Type I. Case Description: The patient was a 19-month-old girl with a medical history significant for SMA Type I resulting in progressive neuromuscular deterioration and leading to global severe hypotonia, muscle weakness, respiratory involvement, and genu valgum. The patient was breathing with the assistance of a tracheostomy and had a g-tube placed for feedings. Upon diagnosis at 6 months old, the child’s function had started to decline rapidly; at the time of physical therapy (PT) treatment, the child’s movement ability and daily function were severely limited with her being able to only display fair wrist flexion/extension, poor grasp, fair ankle dorsiflexion/ plantarflexion, and intact facial muscles movements, including eye blinking. The patient displayed significant genu valgum due to her non-weight bearing status, limited mobility, and predominant supine position. An innovative treatment was developed to address the genu valgum in a way that is corrective to the lower extremity skeletal impairment; yet, flexible enough to allow any emerging active range of motion and muscle activation. Outcomes: Significant subjective and objective correction as well as unexpected neuromuscular and functional improvements were achieved. In 3 months, the valgus angle was reduced significantly but the patient also demonstrated improved muscle strength in her abductors, adductors, and hamstrings, which allowed her to improve the quality of her daily life and function. Muscle strength and active range of motion continued to improve in the subsequent 3 months as elastic tape treatment continued as a preventative measure. Discussion: There have been numerous studies performed on the neuromuscular properties of elastic tape, and the research shows mixed results.(1-3) However, there haven’t been many studies performed on its use as a dynamic orthotic. In this particular case, elastic tape was chosen to be used in an innovative way as a mechanical assist in the form of dynamic orthotic rather than as a neuromuscular treatment strategy.

I would like to START by thanking all the tape companies that have reacted to my questions regarding the use of their brand tape in the NICU. Nurse practitioners are the professional that have been monitoring the skin condition of the very young closely for many years. They are THE experts on the use of any tape or bandage especially in the NICU. After having read a lot on the topic, I decided to ask the various tape manufacturers if they considered their tape to be safe on the skin of the premature infant. As I have stated earlier https://www.academia.edu/31331942/Clinical_Notes_2_ETT-Ped_taping_pre-term_infants_NICU_and_new-borns._Best_Practice I think it wise not to use tape until the baby is at least 29 days post gestational age. At that moment the skin is adapted to dry surroundings. After reading this article http://journals.lww.com/advancesinneonatalcare/Fulltext/2016/10001/Extremely_Preterm_Infant_Skin_Care__A.5.aspx I asked the various tape companies the following questions: 1. Do you know if the glue is pH-neutral? 2. Do you recommend using your tape brand on the premature skin? Regarding the first question. I have come to understand during this survey that the pH of a solid substance does not exist. We can therefore ask ourselves if this question was really relevant. The skin of a premature baby is pH 7, but this lowers rapidly. Regarding the second question about safely and suitability of brands to be applied to skin of premature born children, we have some interesting answers and comments. ALL ANSWERS AND THE COMPANY'S COMMENTS ARE STATED IN THIS TABLE BELOW:

Elastic Tape: Stretch, Tension, Recoil, Shearing stress, Resistance Skin and Tape The content of this Clinical Note has been in 'the making' for a number of years. It is my reflection on the meaning and importance of tape stretch, skin stretch, pull and the importance of the recoil effect. Do we need them? What do they do? What do people mean by tape tension? What is tape stretch? Is stretch important? Are these effects the same all over the body? What is the role of the skin?

Met regelmaat worden kinderen met een diastasis recti abdomis (DRA) geboren. De uitstulping kan fors zijn en een grote 'bult' van het sternum tot ver onder de navel vormen. Het is vooral zichtbaar als het kind huilt of zich inspant (toename intra-abdominale druk). Tijdens mijn opleiding tot kinderfysiotherapeut is de cDRA niet ter sprake gekomen. Pas toen ik bewust werd van het feit dat veel kinderen met Down Syndroom een cDRA hebben en ik deze bij alle kinderen met een 'lage romp tonus' ging zoeken, vond ik er meer. Ik vond ze ook bij kinderen met een 'normale' tonus. Zij bleken ook voor te komen bij kinderen met Cerebrale Parese (CP). Het bleek in de praktijk dat deze bij alle leeftijdsgroepen voorkomen en dat zij wel degelijk gepaard kunnen gaan met klachten. Voorstel tot een behandelprogramma voor kinderfysiotherapeuten wordt besproken

A question was posed regarding the use and usefulness of taping the diaphragm. As it is one of our most important muscles, not only for breathing but also for posture and trunk stability I thought this would make a nice topic for this Clinical Notes series.

History: Five month old baby 5 months with a torticollis (right side flexion, left rotation) since birth had been treated by paediatric physiotherapist and osteopath (photo 1). His mother is a physiotherapist herself. Everything they had tried was not having much effect. The question rose if taping could be an option. Should a cross patch or a normal tape be used? After deliberation choice to try applying a SCM mini-tape to the non-effected left side first. Clinic: This mini-tape on the left, meant to activate and stretch the right had no result whatsoever (photo 2). During a discussion it became apparent that a palpable fibrotic strand was present in the right sternocleidomastoid muscle. This was most probably caused by foetal malposition. The decision was made to apply tape to that region only. Reasoning being that this area needed a better circulation. Ligament technique with 0% stretch was used because this is easiest to apply. The tape was applied on dry clean skin. (photo 3) Nitto Denko Gentle was used as this tape is safe for sensitive skins. Tape was cut to a size covering the whole strand. Thoughts were that the tape would need to be applied for a number of weeks to have a maximum effect. Straight after the tape was applied, the young boy started turning his head to the right, something he had not been able to do spontaneously before. As the child had developed a positional plagiocephaly the decision was made to also fit him with a helmet. The paediatric physiotherapist working with him, did try another tape to facilitate flexion but this irritated the skin and was removed. Practical information: Application size = large enough to cover the whole fibrotic strand. Tape brand: Nitto Denko Gentle for the sensitive skins, colour beige. Application period: 1 x week (5/6days) for 3 weeks Results: Nice results can be seen here below (photo 4). Many thanks the parents for permission to use this case, the pictures and the video for educational purposes. Link to video

This is the adapted version of my Dutch paper written as a reaction to faulty information on one of the Tape distributors websites. This was also an excellent opportunity to report and share what we have learnt in our nine years of experience with the s-tape.

Basic information of kinesiology: Kinesiology came from two Greek Words. 'kinenin' means 'to move' and 'logos' means 'study'. Kinesiology is the study of human movement from the point of view of the physical sciences or kinesiology refers to the study of movement [see details]. Main areas of kinesiology: ✳ Anatomical kinesiology ✳ Mechanical kinesiology The nature of kinesiology: The study of human body as a machine for the performance of work has its foundation on three major areas of study. ✳ Mechanics ✳ Anatomy [see details] and ✳ Physiology [see details]. More specifically: The three areas are-✳ Biomechanics ✳ musculoskeletal anatomy ✳ Neuromuscular physiology The accumulated knowledge of this three fields form the foundation of study of human Movement [see details] Indication of kinesiology: Kinesiology has a wide range of uses. They area. In relief of muscle [see details] and joint [see details] pain. b. In treatment of stress and confusion. c. To lessen depressive tendencies. d. To overcome fatigue and tiredness. e. To treat backache or any other problems in back.

According to the cosmological foundations of classical Chinese medicine, the physiological processes of the human body can be categorized into 12 functional networks. These networks are conceived to resonate with the various powers of nature as they manifest themselves during the 12 months of the year and the 12 double-hours of the day. Each time period features a set of normal " physiological " occurrences. Similarly, the scientists of ancient China also defined the shadow sides of macrocosm and microcosm, by specifying catastrophic diversions from regular weather patterns in nature and describing pathological expressions by the organ networks of the human body.

Introduction: Rotator cuff tendinopathy (RCTe) is the most frequent cause of shoulder pain, resulting in considerable losses to society and public resources. Muscle imbalance and inadequate sensorimotor control are deficits often associated with RCTe. Kinesiotaping (KT) is widely used by clinicians for rehabilitation of RCTe. While previous studies have examined the immediate effects of KT on shoulder injuries or the effects of KT as an isolated method of treatment, no published study has addressed its mid- and long-term effects when combined to a rehabilitation program for patients with RCTe. The primary objective of this randomised controlled trial (RCT) will be to assess the efficacy of therapeutic KT, added to a rehabilitation program, in reducing pain and disabilities in individuals with RCTe. Secondary objectives will look at the effects of KT on the underlying factors involved in shoulder control, such as muscular activity, acromiohumeral distance (AHD), and range of motion (ROM).

Methods and analysis: A single-blind RCT will be conducted. Fifty-two participants, randomly allocated to one of two groups (KT or no-KT), will take part in a 6-week rehabilitation program. The KT-group will receive KT added to the rehabilitation program, whereas the no-KT group will receive only the rehabilitation program. Measurements will be taken at baseline, week-3, week-6, week-12 and 6-months. Primary outcomes will be symptoms and functional limitations assessed by the DASH questionnaire. Secondary outcomes will include shoulder ROM, AHD at rest and at 60º of abduction, and muscle activation during arm elevation. The added effects of KT will be assessed through a 2-way ANOVA for repeated measures.

Ethics and Dissemination: Ethics approval was obtained from the Ethics Committee of Quebec Rehabilitation Institute (IRDPQ) of the Center Integrated University Health and Social Services (CIUSSS-CN). Results will be disseminated through international publications in peer-reviewed journals, in addition to international conference presentations.

Trial registration number: Protocol registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02881021) on August 25, 2016. The World Health Organization Trial Registration Data Set can also be found as a supplementary file.

Keywords: elastic tape, kinesiology taping, physiotherapy, rotator cuff, shoulder pain, tendon injuries.

Background and Purpose: Spastic cerebral palsy is accompanied with an increase in calf muscles’
spasticity and a decrease in the ankle range of motion. The purpose of the study was to compare
muscle inhibitory with functional corrective Kinesio taping applications on children with spastic
cerebral palsy.
Methods: Thirty two children with spastic cerebral palsy were selected from the outpatient clinic of
the faculty of Physical Therapy Cairo University. Muscle inhibitory and functional corrective Kinesio
taping applications in addition to physical therapy program were applied for three successive
months. Digital Goniometer was used to assess the ankle range of motion pre and post Kinesio tape
applications.
Results: The study revealed that that the functional corrective Kinesio taping is more effective in
increasing ankle range of motion than the muscle inhibitory.
Conclusion: Functional Corrective Kinesio tape application is recommended for increasing ankle
range of motion in children with spastic cerebral palsy.

Research into the effects of various stimuli to the foot sole was undertaken. The literature into the skin’s reaction to tape, the relationship to muscle activity and balance and gait were investigated.
A number of articles relating foot sole to muscle function, balance and postural stability were found.
The author hypothesized that if various stimuli to the foot- sole can cause changes in muscle activity in the lower limb and the trunk, a tape application to the same area should have a similar effect.
The TA-tape application was the result. This new application was applied to various patients presenting with various gait and balance problems.
The results of the use of this tape in seven cases (5 children 7.9yrs and two adults 53-59 yrs) are presented. This application appears to enhance motor performance, gait and balance.
KEYWORDS
foot sole, ankle, skin, elastic therapeutic tape, gait, posture, balance, cutaneous receptor
Kinesio Taping Association International Publisher Logan Square Press, 2016

A very recent Systematic Review by Basant Saiid Hassan  discussing the effectiveness of taping children with brachial plexus injures has raised questions and food for thought.
A number of articles about this topic have seen the light in the last decade and most are included in this Review. My thought on the outcomes and findings.

Is applying Elastic Therapeutic Tape for disorders such as ALS, MS & Spinal Cord Injury possible and useful? Research informed current best practice. Only recently publications about the effects of tapes in patients with MS, ALS & Spinal Cord Injury have been published. Goal of this Clinical Note is to review publications about ETT use in these disorders.
As most documents were published in another languages ​​(Spanish, Persian, Lithuanian, Danish and German) some were difficult to comprehend. All publications found on ETT in these conditions are discussed briefly in this review. My intent is to give an idea of ​​what is possible when addressing some of the symptoms seen. Symptoms these conditions have in common are: spasticity, cramps, pain, balance disorders, muscle weakness, drop head syndrome, fatigue, respiratory decompensation, swallowing disorders and bladder dysfunction. The outcome of the various documents shows that ETT can help relieve a number of these symptoms.

Can we ask the hairdresser or use Elastic therapeutic Tape when considering addressing problems through the skin of the scalp? Yes, we can… but with sound reasoning and good care. Sensory information given to the skin of the scalp can be used to influence pain or range of motion. Various tape applications and specific hair styling tips (based on research conducted by colleagues Diane Jacobs and Prof. Tsutomu Fukui), have the potential to be a possible effective assist in therapy.

Could use of the mini-ER tape for upper limb external rotation activate UE rotation, stimulate diaphragmatic breathing and extension of the trunk be current best practice? This mini-ER tape application is much smaller than the current technique curling tape around the whole upper arm to facilitate external rotation.Knowing that only a small area of skin needs to be handled (somewhere around the elbow joint, or higher up on the upper arm) to facilitate extension of the trunk as described by the Bobath's I started using much smaller and thinner pieces of tape covering the area my hand had given the stimulus to only. A number of colleagues have also thought of using the tape in this manner. The description for tape applications used in this same fashion are: memory tape or stimulus tape.

Background: Kinesiotaping (KT) has been widely used in clinical practice. Current evidence is insufficient to support the use of KT for treating rotator cuff-related shoulder pain (RCRSP), as its mid-and long-term effects have not been investigated.

[Purpose] The aim of this study was to examine the effect of kinesiology taping applied to primary and accessory respiratory muscles on respiratory muscle strength.[Subjects] The subjects were 47 healthy university students (16 female, 31 male), who were all enrolled at the Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Marmara. [Methods] Participants were divided into two groups and diaphrag-matic kinesiology taping was applied to the first group and kinesiology taping to the accessory respiratory muscles of the second group. Respiratory muscle strength was measured with Micro Mouth Pressure Measurement (MPM) before and after taping.[Results] The results show that kinesiology taping of the primary and accessory respiratory muscles caused no significant increase in respiratory strength. [Conclusion] The current findings on the effect of kinesiology taping on muscular strength do not fully support the results of other studies reported in the literature. These results suggest the need for more comprehensive studies of both acute and long-term effects of kinesiology taping on muscular strength of healthy individuals and patients.

Research informed practice: using ET-Taping as Pain Management option for children. Using ET tape as pain reduction for children with chronic pain and/or in palliative care. A gentle and cost effective alternative to pharmaceutical treatment. What does research say and what are the clinical possibilities?  March 2018

This clinical note is now updated for the second time due to an interesting new study looking into more than just colour and the mechanical properties of tape published recently. Selva and colleagues ii looked into the mechanical properties, maximum adherence force and work done when removing tape from sheep skin. The tape was tested in the dry, wet and sweaty state and four colours of 19 brands were tested. The authors also looked at the substances found in the glues. To my knowledge this is the most comprehensive and detailed study into various properties of so many brands so far.

I N T R O D U C T I ON: Kinesiology taping can be used as an independent or supportive method in rehabilitation. It can be
utilized for many injuries, disorders and diseases. The aim of this observational study was to record the incidence of
contact allergies or other adverse skin changes amongst patients with neurological disorders treated with kinesiology
tape.
M A T E R I A L AN D M ET H O D S : One hundred and sixty patients from four countries (Poland, Spain, England, Holland)
both females and males, treated with kinesiology tape were included. The second author (Poland) looked for skin
reactions during each new application. In the other three countries (Spain, England, Holland) therapists initiated tape
application and parents or caregiver’s reported to the first author by means of an online questionnaire.
R E S U L TS : The incidence of skin reaction was 9.38%.
C O N C L U S I O N S : Despite the fact that kinesiology taping is regarded as an effective, safe and patient-friendly treatment,
there is still need for careful application. This is especially the case in neurological patients with possible sensory
deficits and/or patients in a (sub)conscious state. Increased awareness of possible allergic (contact dermatitis) reactions
should increase the safety of this method.
KEY WO R DS
physiotherapy, safety, rehabilitation, Kinesiology Taping, skin preparation, tape properties

IntroductionRotator cuff tendinopathy (RCTe) is the most frequent cause of shoulder pain, resulting in considerable losses to society and public resources. Muscle imbalance and inadequate sensorimotor control are deficits often associated with RCTe. Kinesiotaping (KT) is widely used by clinicians for rehabilitation of RCTe. While previous studies have examined the immediate effects of KT on shoulder injuries or the effects of KT as an isolated method of treatment, no published study has addressed its mid-term and long-term effects when combined with a rehabilitation programme for patients with RCTe. The primary objective of this randomised controlled trial (RCT) will be to assess the efficacy of therapeutic KT, added to a rehabilitation programme, in reducing pain and disabilities in individuals with RCTe. Secondary objectives will look at the effects of KT on the underlying factors involved in shoulder control, such as muscular activity, acromiohumeral distance (AHD) and range of m...