Rocktape

Question 1

How it works.

What are the possible effects of decompression?

Answer 1

Applying an elastic tape on skin creates a lifting effect. So decompresses the subcutaneous tissue layers beneath the tape.

decompression:
-Fluid effects- allows better flow of lymphatics/ superficial blood flow
-mechanical effects: allows better glide between tissue layers.
Neurological effect: Decrease nociceptive drive and provide alternative mechanorecptor input. Improves proprioception.

Question 2

Key features of kinesio tape>

Answer 2

1. Assists to reduce pain
2. Assists to reduce swelling and bruising
3. Allows full range of movement
4. Hypoallergenic – zinc oxide and latex free
5. Water resistant – can shower or swim with ROCKTAPE
   (can be worn for 3-5 days)

Question 3

General rules of application

Answer 3

Ensure skin is clean, dry, free of oils etc
• Very hairy areas can be clipped
• Round edges of tape
• No tension in first or last inch of tape
• Don’t use all the stretch in the tape all of the time

GENERAL RULES OF APPLICATION
• This tape sticks better to skin than to itself
• Can cut tape into fans, X, Y or V shapes
• Glue is heat activated
• Apply at least one hour before sport, two hours before swimming

Question 4

Precautions

Answer 4

Elderly with thin skin – minimal stretch (10-20%)
• Diabetics – lower extremities
• Those patients who don’t listen to instruction
• CLINICIAN ERROR – Too much stretch on the tape.

Question 5

Regional taping.

what is it? why?

Answer 5

Taping individual muscles and joints to provide
increased afferent input and decrease nociceptive drive.

WHEN TO USE THIS TECHNIQUE?

1. Paincontrol
2. Oedema/inflammation control 3. Joint support/proprioception
3. Improveconsciousawarenessof injury, better home exercise compliance?

Examples of regional taping: 
 Lumbar
• Calf
• “Shin splints”/MTSS
• Anterior knee
• Shoulder

Question 6

Oedema/ inflammation control

Answer 6

To reduce inflammation from affected area as quickly as possible, enabling faster recovery and return to function. Consider using for:
 Acute traumatic swelling
 Sub-acute/chronic swelling  Lymphoedema
 Regional hypersensitivity/allodynia

Jelly fish method for an inversion sprain
Light tissue stretch

Question 7

Goal of postural taping:

How?

Answer 7

Goal: To assist in establishing a targeted posture to facilitate normal movement patterns:

1. Place the body into the desired posture, even slightly over-corrected.
2. Apply the tape to facilitate the intended posture (via cutaneous stimulation).
3. Apply the tape with little to moderate stretch.