KT Tape AC Joint

Kinesiology (KT) strapping is very popular for many musculoskeletal injuries. The idea is that the tape helps support the muscles and tendons at the point of pain, and therefore causes less pain when doing exercises or general daily activities. The evidence for kinesiology strapping is mixed, and because of that, some people find it’s really helpful, whereas others find it doesn’t offer them much at all. 

If you feel you are struggling to progress, that your rehab is a little stagnant, or that general daily activities are still irritable, then it may be helpful to try this. 

You can leave KT tape on for up to 5-7 days, but at any point, if it feels hot and itchy, take it off straight away. Have a day’s rest with no tape before reapplying, and ideally test with a small strip before applying a larger piece. You also want to make sure that the area is dry before applying. 

Because of the flexibility of the tape, compared to traditional rigid tape, it allows you to move in a more natural way. A little tip when cutting your tape, round off the edges at the ends slightly rather than them being at right angles. This will help it stick better. 

Used alongside some of the other treatment methods, it may offer some relief, but realistically on its own will do little to completely alleviate your pain or return you to function. However, it can provide additional support to you through your rehab programme.