These days there are many styles of taping offered, many claiming to be the best or ultimate.  We have been using many styles and products since we opened and continue to learn new techniques and use new innovative products as they enter the market.  

 

We break taping down into two basic forms, functional and supportive.  These two styles can and often cross over, as they should, as taping is as much an art as it is a science.

Both are used to aid in your recovery from injury, for rehabilitation, recreation or sports performance.  

 

Supportive taping is when the tape administered has a role of supporting and limiting the joint or injured area such that further injury or aggravation cannot occur.  It can also support the healthy structures while they in turn support the injury.

 

Functional taping is somewhat supportive but often allows full use of the area where the tape has been administered.  Often ‘that stretch tape” is used.  There has been many reported mechanisms and debates as to why this tape works, but what matters is that the individual feels that the tape has been successful in its goal of reducing pain or increasing range of motion.  

 

A little known use of taping is to help in the dissipation of bruises. Again this style of taping has its own technique.

 

Often a combination of both supportive and functional taping are used simultaneously.  We always stress that although the internet is full of self taping techniques, we always asses and customize your needs and taping to suit your particular injury or need.  Taping is an art as much as it is a science. The patient and the practitioner should work together to find the best taping technique for that patient on that day and for their upcoming needs, to help them achieve their “Potential”.