How to Apply Kinesio Tape to a Stiff and Achy Knee

Many of my clients have given up on ways to relieve their knee pain. I hear statements like: “there is no hope,” or “I’ve tried every ointment and medication, but there is still no relief,” and “My knees feel stiff and achy every time I wake up in the morning.” 

Therefore, they fear movement causes pain, and as a result, they become inactive because of failed treatments.

So, what can be done to ease knee pain caused by osteoarthritis? Taping your knee correctly using Kinesio Tape is a safe and simple method that improves blood circulation and lymphatic flow. 

What causes knee pain?

Knee pain is a common issue that affects nearly 100 million people and is commonly diagnosed as osteoarthritis. 

It is caused by either a mechanical issue or soft tissue injury. Some people suffer knee pain from gout, infections, or arthritis. Other causes are injury, sitting or standing for an extended period, overuse, or fracture. It’s relevant to an individual’s lifestyle, job description, and health. 

Osteoarthritis is cartilage degeneration due to the wearing of the structure caused by an underlying issue, medical illness, injury, obesity, or biomechanics malfunction. 

What is Kinesio Tape?

Kinesio Tape is a scientific method that uses the positioning of tape on a specific part of the body for pain relief. It provides support to overworked joints and muscles and helps reduce the amount of swelling. It can be applied at home or by a medical professional. 

Who invented Kinesio Tape?

Also known as K-Tape, Kinesio Tape was invented by Dr. Kenzo Kase, a chiropractor, who developed this taping method in 1979 to help boost athletes’ performance.

How does it help knee pain?

The tape application targets specific myriad sensory receptors in the skin that sends a signal to the brain to help reduce pain. The tape causes decompression of the compressed pain receptors (nociceptors) to improve blood and lymphatic flow.

Easiest way to apply Kinesio Tape

You can apply Kinesio Tape yourself at home. Follow these steps and watch the video above to learn how to effectively apply it to your knee to relieve the aches and pains. 

Tip: The tape adhere best when your legs are freshly shaven and makes removal easier. 

1. Using sharp scissors, cut 4-5 strips of tape from the roll about 6 inches long.
2. Round the edges of the strips to keep the tape from fringing.
3. Take the backing off of one strip as you apply it to the outside of the knee. Make sure to smooth it out as you remove the backing and apply it to the skin. 
4. Continue to smooth the tape once it’s fully adhered to your skin.
5. Repeat the process for the other side of the knee.

How can you to remove the tape?

There are two different methods for removing Kinesio Tape. First, apply baby or coconut oil or water to your skin to minimize friction and wait 10 minutes. Make sure to remove the tape slowly to minimize discomfort. 

1. Roll method: Gently lift to start rolling against your skin while your fingers follow along.
2. Lift method: Lift one end of the tape, then press down on your skin and continue until the tape is removed.

Where can I purchase Kinesio Tape?

Get the pain relief you deserve by purchasing Kinesio Tape here!

I can help you!

If you didn’t get any relief from using the tape application, or if you did get relief and you’re looking for additional help, I offer a FREE 30-minute virtual wellness assessment.  Click here to schedule your Virtual Wellness Assessment!