Kinesiology taping
Kinesiology taping with a coloured elastic therapeutic tape has become a visible part of sport, with it seen applied to all sorts of places on a body, not just around a joint.
Developed by a chiropractor in the 1970s, kinesiology tape is said to subtly lift the skin, helping to relieve pain and support injured muscles by improving blood and lymph flow and reducing oedema.
A study looking specifically at the effects of kinesiology taping in footballers with a knee injury concluded the tape was an effective adjunct therapy, but not a main therapy.10
Reflection point
Review the supports, braces and tapes stocked in your pharmacy.
How can they help to prevent and treat sports injuries?