How Kinesio Taping Helps with Scar Tissue

Kinesio taping involves applying a specialized elastic tape to the skin to support muscles and joints without restricting movement. When used for scar tissue, it can provide several benefits:

Benefits of Kinesio Taping for Scar Tissue

1. Improves Blood and Lymphatic Flow: Kinesio tape gently lifts the skin, increasing space between the skin and the underlying tissues. This helps improve blood flow and lymphatic drainage, reducing swelling and promoting healing.

2. Reduces Scar Adhesions: By providing gentle, consistent tension, kinesio tape can help prevent the formation of adhesions (where the scar tissue sticks to the underlying tissues) and can assist in breaking down existing adhesions.

3. Enhances Mobility: Kinesio taping helps maintain the mobility of the scar and surrounding tissues, allowing for better movement and flexibility. This is crucial for preventing the restrictions that can lead to pain and dysfunction.

4. Supports Muscle Function: The tape provides support to the muscles around the scar, helping them function more efficiently. This can reduce the compensatory patterns that often develop due to restricted movement from scar tissue.

5. Pain Relief: By improving circulation and reducing tension in the affected area, kinesio taping can also help alleviate pain associated with scar tissue.

Practical Application

Applying Kinesio Tape:
1. Clean the Area: Ensure the skin is clean and dry before applying the tape.
2. Measure and Cut: Cut the tape to the desired length. Round the edges to prevent the tape from peeling.
3. Apply with Tension: Apply the tape with a slight stretch over the scar, ensuring that both ends are laid down without tension. This helps create the lifting effect that improves circulation.
4. Rub to Activate Adhesive: After applying, rub the tape gently to activate the adhesive for better adherence.

Visualizing Kinesio Taping
Think of kinesio tape as a supportive net that helps keep the area around the scar flexible and mobile. Just like how a net allows things to pass through while providing support, kinesio tape supports the skin and tissues without restricting movement, promoting better healing and function.

Research Support
Studies have shown that kinesio taping can be effective in managing scar tissue:
– Improved Scar Appearance: Research indicates that kinesio taping can improve the appearance of scars by promoting better tissue organization and reducing hypertrophic (raised) scars.
– Pain Reduction and Mobility: Clinical evidence supports the use of kinesio tape in reducing pain and improving mobility in areas affected by scar tissue.

Incorporating kinesio taping into your scar care routine can enhance blood flow, reduce adhesions, and support muscle function, contributing to overall better scar management and healing. For best results, combine this technique with other self-care practices like dry brushing and guasha.

Read how How Scar Tissue Impacts Breathing and Lymphatic Health

Mara Nicandro NMT