Medical taping (kinesiotaping)

From August 1, 2025, we offer our patients the option of taping with kinesiology tape from the brands Škola tejpování and RockTape. Our patients can use taping either on its own or in combination with high‑induction pulsed magnetotherapy. As a physician, I have completed a certified Škola tejpování course and work exclusively with tapes I am experienced with (their elasticity and adhesion to the skin). I do not apply tape brought in by patients themselves.

Kinesiology tape is an elastic cotton strip with medical‑grade adhesive that does not restrict movement and supports the natural healing of tissues. Taping, often referred to as kinesiotaping, is a technique of applying elastic strips to the skin to support muscle function, improve proprioception, and facilitate lymphatic drainage. In recent years, it has gained wide popularity not only among elite athletes but also in routine outpatient care. Numerous clinical studies are being conducted to confirm its therapeutic effects across various diagnoses and target groups.

This method was developed in 1979 by Japanese chiropractor Dr. Kenzo Kase to help reduce pain, prevent injuries, and accelerate the regeneration of muscles and joints.

History of Taping

Taping began to appear in the 1960s, when athletes used rigid fixation tapes as a simple form of orthosis to support muscles and joints without interfering with athletic performance.
Elastic tapes (kinesiology tapes) were designed in 1979 by Japanese chiropractor Kenzo Kase, who developed a thin elastic material resembling human skin. He named it Kinesio Tex Tape. The goal was to support muscle regeneration while maintaining full range of motion. In 1988, kinesiology tapes appeared widely at the Summer Olympic Games in Seoul as a performance aid and injury‑prevention tool for athletes. A global boom followed during the 2008 Beijing Olympics, when tapes were distributed free of charge to 58 countries.

Principles and Mechanisms of Action

Kinesiology taping uses elastic strips applied to the skin either with tension or without it. The main effects include:
increasing subcutaneous space and supporting lymphatic drainage
stimulating skin receptors and improving proprioception
providing mild muscle compression leading to joint stabilization
enhancing circulation at the application site
These physiological effects are repeatedly discussed in scientific literature and, in some studied situations, demonstrated using imaging methods such as ultrasound and sonography.

1. Micromechanical Lifting of the Skin and Increased Intercellular Space

Due to its elastic structure, kinesiology tape gently lifts the skin and creates small convolutions that increase the space between the epidermis and subcutaneous tissue. This facilitates blood and lymph flow, accelerates the absorption of swelling, and reduces local inflammation.

2. Neuro‑sensory Effects and Pain Modulation

A stretched tape stimulates cutaneous mechanoreceptors (A‑beta fibers), which—according to the "gate control" theory—dampen the transmission of painful stimuli carried by C‑fibers. The result is reduced perceived pain and improved proprioception.

3. Fascial and Mechanical Correction Effects

The tape can influence fascial tension and soft tissue alignment. It supports proper joint centration and segmental stability. High tension (50–75%) in specific application techniques helps maintain the joint head in a physiological position and optimize joint mechanics.

4. Physiological Facilitation and Inhibition of Muscles

The direction and degree of tape tension (5–25%) determine whether the technique is inhibitory or facilitatory.
Inhibitory taping (5–15%) is applied from the muscle insertion toward its origin to promote relaxation and regeneration.
Facilitatory taping (15–35%) is applied from the origin toward the insertion to enhance muscle activation and performance.

Main Benefits of Taping

Reduces pain perception by mechanically stimulating sensory receptors in the skin and "tricking" the nervous system.
Delays fatigue and stabilizes stressed areas, reducing the risk of overload and injury. It can be used preventively before sports performance or physical exertion.
Improves blood and lymph circulation thanks to the gentle lifting of the skin.
Supports regeneration by promoting the removal of metabolic waste (e.g., lactic acid).
Accelerates rehabilitation after injuries or surgery by reducing swelling and improving mobility.
Does not restrict movement and can be worn while swimming or in the sauna (water‑resistant variants).

Indications

acute and chronic muscle and joint pain, back and head pain
post‑traumatic and post‑operative conditions
tendinopathies, tendon pain, insertional pain
swelling, bruising, scars, lymphatic support
reduced joint stability and proprioceptive disorders
postural work and movement guidance, limited range of motion
muscle hypertonus and hypotonia
reduced function of the musculoskeletal system
joint instability

Application and Tape Care

Kinesiology tape is made of cotton. It is water‑resistant, but prolonged bathing shortens its lifespan. The tape is applied to clean, degreased skin. Hair removal (shaving) the day before is recommended to ensure optimal adhesion and avoid irritation. Depending on care, the tape lasts 3–5 days.
It is not advisable to bathe with the tape, but showering is fine. Pat dry with a towel and avoid applying creams. Sauna use is not recommended. If the end of the tape begins to peel or fray, it can be trimmed.

Contraindications

open wounds and fresh scars
allergy to acrylic adhesives or very sensitive skin
acute thrombosis or severe venous disorders
malignant tumors or suspicious skin lesions
feverish states, thyroid dysfunctions
pregnancy—caution especially on the lower abdomen and lumbar area
oncological diseases with risk of metastasis spread
skin lesions: eczema, rashes, dermatitis, herpes, warts, nevi, melanoma
burns
cardiopulmonary decompensation or edema caused by heart, liver, or kidney disease

Variations and Special Types of Tape

water‑resistant tapes for triathlon or swimming
tapes for sensitive skin and children with lower adhesion
ICE tapes made of artificial silk with a cooling effect
tourmaline‑infused tapes for enhanced pain relief
Kinesiology taping can be adapted for the knee, ankle, shoulder, lumbar spine, or cervical spine. Each area requires a specific technique (e.g., Y‑shape, fan‑shape, space tape) and appropriate tension, ideally consulted with a physiotherapist or trained specialist.

Taping Methods

sports (rigid) taping – non‑elastic tape designed to limit movement in a specific area. Provides maximum joint stabilization, prevents further injury, and can partially replace an orthosis.
cross taping – non‑elastic grid‑shaped patches supporting circulation and accelerating healing of bruises and scars (except in acute inflammation).
kinesiology taping – elastic tape with skin‑like properties. Aims to reduce pain and swelling and improve blood and lymph circulation while maintaining full range of motion.
lymphatic taping – very gentle elastic tapes for lymphatic drainage.
special sports tapes – water‑ and sweat‑resistant elastic tapes for intense training and competitions; highly durable, wearable for 5–7 days.
dynamic taping – extra‑elastic tapes for stabilizing muscles and joints without limiting mobility, ideal for dynamic movements.
elastic tapes – combine firmness and elasticity as a compromise between fixation and free movement; used to prevent mild strains or sprains.

All photographic documentation was taken with the patient's consent, and I am the author of the photographs. The experiences of my patients with the above‑mentioned treatment are presented based on their permission. Any further distribution of the content below is allowed only with my written consent.

Taping of lower back

Taping of neck

PRICE LIST – TAPING

Small taping (elbow, wrist, finger) – 200 CZK

Medium taping (cervical spine, carpal tunnel syndrome, tennis elbow, ankle) – 300 CZK

Large taping (shoulder, trapezius, hip, knee, back – multiple segments, flat‑foot correction) – 400 CZK Lymphatic taping – 400 CZK

Spacetape / star technique (joint, SI joint, greater trochanter, trigger points) – 400 CZK