It has been an integral part of sport since the 1980s. Japanese and Korean athletes caused quite a stir at the Olympic Games with these colorful patches.

It is not only a helpful measure for injuries in sport. It is now also used in various specialist areas such as neurology, lymphology and orthopaedics. The elastic Tape influences the pain receptors and lymphatic drainage. It provides support and stability for the affected region.


Tape on an injured knee - Physiotherapie Wipkingen

The origin of this method

It originated in Japan and was developed as a supplement to rigid white adhesive tape. This innovation has made it possible to develop and combine numerous new application techniques. In contrast to traditional fixation, this method not only focuses on immobilization; it also enables targeted support and mobilization of various joints. The development of the colorful adhesive tape is based on Far Eastern ideas and philosophy, with kinesiology serving as the fundamental basis.

What is elastic tape?

It is a specially developed, elastic band made of skin-friendly material that is applied directly to the muscles to activate the sensorimotor system and metabolism. Depending on requirements, it can either have a detonating (calming) or toning (activating) effect. In the toning application, it is applied from the muscle origin to the muscle insertion, while in the detonating application it is applied from the muscle insertion to the origin. This technique enables effective treatment of pain and restricted movement. In many cases, the brightly colored tape has replaced the traditional white, inelastic sports tape. Although the different colors are said to have different properties, there is no scientific basis for this.

There are numerous investment techniques that are selected after a comprehensive analysis of your specific problem, including:

  • Muscle techniques
  • Ligament techniquesto support the inner ligaments of the knee, for example
  • Correction techniquesfor example to correct the kneecap
  • Fascia techniquesfor example, to relieve the fasciae on the thigh
  • Lymphatic techniquesfor better drainage of swelling after supination trauma, for example
  • Neural techniquesfor example in the case of lesions, irritations and discomfort
  • Functional tapingfor example, nerve tape for carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Scar techniquesfor example to improve the elasticity of scars

The effect of the elastic adhesive tape

The elastic band activates the body's own self-healing powers and produces positive sensory effects on the skin and the entire body. It also promotes microcirculation, which increases lymphatic drainage and local blood circulation. The application stimulates receptors such as proprioceptors, which improves the feeling of movement and optimizes movement sequences. These effects can be particularly noticeable after Tape for Achilles tendon painoperations or sports injuries. The tape can also improve body statics by influencing muscle tone. A posture strap between the shoulder blades can help to correct an awkward posture at the desk, for example.

Influence on the lymphatic system

Lymphtape is ideal for minimizing swelling after acute injuries or operations. The primary aim after such procedures is to control swelling and inflammation. Lymphtape is often used in combination with lymphatic drainage, as both methods support each other positively. It is used in the head and neck area after jaw, nose or dental surgery, in the shoulder-arm area and on the chest after surgery or the removal of lymph nodes in the armpit. It is used on the trunk after radiotherapy or the removal of lymph nodes in the groin area to positively influence the scar and promote metabolism and healing.

What is sports taping?

Sport Tape is a white, non-elastic adhesive tape that can be quickly removed from a patient during competitions, for example. Physiotherapists is applied to stabilize a joint and enable the athlete to remain able to bear weight for a certain period of time. It should be removed after use. It can also be used preventively to avoid injuries such as ankle sprains.

When should it not be used?

Its use should be avoided in certain situations, especially in the case of acute or chronic skin diseases, malignant tumors, vascular pathologies, allergies, irradiated skin areas or severe skin irritation after sunbathing. It is important to discuss these conditions with your therapist before using it.

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