Experiences of Medical Taping therapists

In 1999 I first learned about Kinesio Taping. At the time I attended a Kinesio Taping course in Portugal. Since then much has changed and the method has developed into a very complete method of treatment: The Medical Taping Concept.

The Medical Taping Concept supports my mechanical thinking perfectly. Although it is likely that the result of the tape used is due to proprioceptive stimulation of the skin, dermis and/or fascia, which better controls and/or triggers the movement.

Because of the elasticity of the tape one can easily continue to move functionally after application, which is a great advantage compared to non elastic conservative tape. Also as a manual therapist I encounter my limitations, certainly if it concerns muscle and fascia related problems, such as hypertonia, pain and stiffness. Of course, we physiotherapists have our treatment methods for it. But I feel that the Medical Taping Concept should not be omitted, as muscle problems can be treated extremely well with it. The effect of the tape on the muscle and/or fascia will have to be found not only in proprioceptive stimulation but also in better blood circulation and lymph drainage. Through this, better conditions are created to integrate remedial therapy more pleasantly and quickly. Because of its positive effect Medical Taping, in many cases, will be an alternative to a time consuming therapy like massage. Of course, the taping method does not replace, however it adds a very effective therapeutic way of treatment.

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The Medical Taping Concept is a new approach to almost all symptoms. It is a complete and stimulating method of treatment. Everyone working with this method arrives at the same conclusion, it is easy to work with and the results are surprisingly rapid and good. Through the elastic tape movements, but also specific structures like muscles, joints, lymph vessels and nerves are influenced. The elastic tape or the special ‘cross tapes’ are applied in a special way and can be worn for several days. Because of this the body is continuously stimulated for a longer period of time. The tape stimulates movements of muscles and joints without restricting blood and lymph circulation. Therefore there is a more rapid recovery and rehabilitation can start sooner. The tape is elastic in two directions and is porous.

Traditional sport tape usually aims at immobilizing joints and muscles. This method, however, aims at controlling the movement and reducing range of motion, so that the chance of further overuse decreases. Through its elasticity the tape stimulates the proprioception through which control of movement and sensation of movement increase. When there is inflammation of affected structures swelling and pain occur. By using traditional tape the pressure increases and therefore also the pain. The special elastic tape, when applied properly, gives a decrease of pressure through which lymph circulation is stimulated, the pressure diminishes, the pain lessens and more rapid recovery occurs. The Medical Taping Concept is a perfect addition to an activating therapeutic approach. I often hear physiotherapists say: ‘But I have used tape for years, what do you want to teach me?’ These reactions are very understandable but not correct. The Medical Taping Concept differs greatly from the traditional way of taping as we (in the Netherlands) know it.

In my physiotherapy practice there are many oedema patients. If you know how to use the techniques correctly Lymph Taping (part of MTC) works very well when treating lymph oedema. The reactions from patients are very positive. Not only is the drainage of oedema increased, but also fibrotic tissue becomes much softer and with a special taping technique even on a shrivelled scar (after radiotherapy) enormous improvement can be attained. I can only say: a very important support for lymph drainage. Start using it!

When you work with footballers you must introduce new things carefully. How enthusiastic and curious you might be about the intended effects, after attending the taping course given by René Claassen. Footballers are, as a rule, sceptical about new things, but once they have seen that they work they come and ask for them.

And ……..the method does work! You try some indications; there is some laughter in the locker room at the brightly coloured tapes, and you become more and more enthusiastic. And not only did I, but the players as well. Thus for instance all contusions in muscle groups caused by blunt trauma can be treated effectively with this tape. This method of treatment is also a welcome addition, when treating various hypertonia.