Developed in 1970 by Japanese Chiropractor Dr Kenzo Kase to replace the movement restrictive zinc oxide tape, kinesiology tape was first used during the 1988 Seoul Olympics. It wasn't until the London 2012 Olympics that it achieved global recognition after being used by many athletes.
I recently had the opportunity to attend a CPD day down in Oxford with Jo Rose of Rose Therapies and Training. The first half of the day was spent in the classroom, where we had a lecture on the principles of Kinesiology tape, its therapeutic uses and benefits, limitations and application. We were able to spend time applying the tape to ourselves to get a feel for the application process, how it affects the body and how various taping shapes can influence the body and the underlying structures.
In the afternoon, we headed out to a local yard where we had the chance to put our theory work into practice. We spent time assessing our given horses for movement asymmetries and dysfunction and were tasked to improve any asymmetry, dysfunction or proprioceptive awareness with Kinesiology tape and no other manual therapy techniques.
What is Kinesiology tape?
Kinesiology tape is made of finely woven fabric with elastic fibres that only stretch longitudinally. Designed to mimic the skins elasticity so that full range of motion can still be achieved, the material is breathable and strong enough to last between 3-5 days (usually!). Depending on how much 'stretch' is used when applying the tape, it can have a decompression or compression effect on the underlying tissues. The underside of the tape has alternating ridges to interact with pain receptors, blood vessels and the lymphatic system. Most brands are hypoallergenic and latex free, so shouldn't cause any issues for your horse, but I will always do a 'test' strip to start.
How does it work?
The scientific theory suggests that Kinesiology tape works mechanically by lifting the skin and superficial fascia to decompress the underlying tissues and aid the flow of lymph. This lifting enables decompression of the soft tissues below the dermis and reduces the pressure on the mechanoreceptors below the skin to provide more space for lymphatic drainage and blood flow, without restricting range of motion (Morris et al., 2013).
One study concluded that Kinesiology tape was a successful addition in the post operative management of lymphoedema after treatment for breast cancer. Despite the research's limited findings, the study did acknowledged that the tapes uses in lymphoedema management was in its early stages and there is potential for further research (Finnerty et al., 2010).
Theoretically, kinesiology tape could also enhance proprioception (perception or awareness of the position and movement of the body). Application of the tape increases afferent information as a result of stimulation of the cutaneous mechanoreceptors (Morris et al., 2013). The mechanical effect on the body from the tape could therefore improve the sensory-motor system (this is the link between the nerves and the muscles). This greater awareness of the body could aid in activation of muscles that are not functioning correctly, improving performance.
It is important to note that much of the research into the efficacy of Kinesiology taping has been conducted on humans, but it does have its place as a therapeutic technique among equines as we can build on what we know works with humans and apply it to our animals. As yet there is a dearth of evidence to support its claims, however, it is important that we understand no two equines (or humans), cases, history and injury are the same and what works for one, may not work for another.
Application and Uses
Biomechanical dysfunction
Improved proprioception
Improved lymphatic drainage
Postural dysfunction
Fascial restriction
References
Finnerty, S., Thomason, S., and Woods, M. (2010) Audit of the use of kinesiology tape for breast oedema. Journal of Lymphoedema.
Morris, D., Jones, D., Ryan, H., Ryan, C., (2013) The clinical effects of Kinesio Tex taping: a systematic review. Physiotherapy Theory and Practice, 29(4) 259-270.
An Introduction to Kinesiology Taping for Horses with Jo Rose (2022).