This informal CPD article, ‘The Benefits of Kinesiotape in Facilitating Muscle Activation Post-Surgery’ was provided Deborah L Walker of Chariot Consulting, who is a corrective functional therapist specializing in non-surgical foot and ankle treatment.
Kinesiotape, a widely used therapeutic tool, has gained popularity in recent years for its potential benefits in facilitating muscle activation and aiding in post-surgical recovery. This article aims to explore the advantages of utilizing kinesiotape as a post-surgical intervention and provide scientific research resources that support its efficacy in promoting muscle activation and rehabilitation.
1. Enhanced Proprioception and Muscle Awareness: Kinesiotape can improve proprioception, which refers to the body's ability to sense the position and movement of muscles and joints. By applying kinesiotape to specific muscle groups, it provides tactile feedback and enhances muscle awareness, leading to improved control and coordination. This is especially crucial after surgical interventions where muscle activation may be compromised.1
2. Facilitates Muscle Recruitment: Post-surgery, muscle weakness and inhibition are common challenges faced during rehabilitation. Kinesiotape can assist in activating weak or inhibited muscles by providing external support and stimulation. It can help restore normal muscle function, improve muscle strength, and promote proper movement patterns.2
3. Reduced Swelling and Edema: Surgical procedures often result in swelling and edema in the affected area, which can impede muscle activation and delay the recovery process. Kinesiotape's elastic properties create a lifting effect on the skin, facilitating lymphatic drainage and reducing fluid accumulation. This helps alleviate swelling, promoting a better environment for muscle activation and improved range of motion.3
4. Pain Reduction and Support: Post-surgical pain can be a significant hurdle in rehabilitation. Kinesiotape's application can help reduce pain and discomfort by providing structural support to the muscles and joints. It aids in offloading stress on the surgical site, allowing for improved muscle activation and better tolerance to rehabilitation exercises.4
Kinesiotape is a valuable adjunctive tool in post-surgical rehabilitation, offering various benefits to facilitate muscle activation and aid in the recovery process. The scientific research resources provided in this article support the efficacy of kinesiotape in improving proprioception, facilitating muscle recruitment, reducing swelling, and alleviating pain. When used appropriately under the guidance of a healthcare professional, kinesiotape can contribute to improved outcomes and a faster return to functional activities post-surgery.
Disclaimer: It is important to consult with a healthcare professional or licensed therapist before using kinesiotape or any therapeutic intervention. Individual circumstances may vary, and personalized advice is essential for optimal post-surgical rehabilitation.
We hope this article was helpful. For more information from Chariot Consulting, please visit their CPD Member Directory page. Alternatively, you can go to the CPD Industry Hubs for more articles, courses and events relevant to your Continuing Professional Development requirements.
References:
1: Effects of Kinesio Tape on Proprioception in the Ankle Authors: Halseth et al. (2004) Source: Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy
2: The Immediate Effect of Kinesio Taping on Muscle Activation in Patients with Muscle Inhibition: A Pilot Study Authors: Fu et al. (2016) Source: Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research
3: Effects of Kinesiology Tape on Edema and Muscle Function After Total Knee Replacement in Individuals With Osteoarthritis: A Pilot Study Authors: Lee et al. (2017) Source: Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy
4: The Effect of Kinesiology Tape on Pain Following Knee Arthroplasty: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial Authors: Huang et al. (2018) Source: Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research
