Elastic Therapeutic Taping
Elastic therapeutic taping uses a stretchy, spring-like tape to take load off a joint or muscle and guide how you move, without limiting your range of motion. We use it for patients in Chubbuck and Pocatello, Idaho, as part of a plan built by Matt Krammen, PT, DPT, Cert DN, PT, an orthopedic physical therapist.
How this tape is different from a standard kinesiology strip
Both are tapes, but they are built to do different jobs.
Material and stretch
The tape is a synthetic nylon and lycra cloth that stretches in all directions, with four-way stretch. Kinesiology tape is mostly cotton and stretches along its length.
Recoil
It has much more resistance and recoil, a bit like a bungee cord. Kinesiology tape has a very gentle recoil meant to lift the skin.
No hard stop
It can stretch past 200 percent of its resting length with no firm end point. Kinesiology tape typically stretches 140 to 180 percent and then stops, so it cannot be applied with the body part held in a shortened position while keeping full range.
Taping that works mechanically
This tape is designed to work mechanically. It changes movement patterns by absorbing load and giving that energy back into the movement, all without limiting range of motion. Kinesiology tape works through the skin and nervous system to change pain perception, address lymphatic drainage and encourage changes in how muscles fire.
Because of that, elastic therapeutic taping has more in common with rigid athletic taping than with kinesiology taping. It is an externally applied, load-absorbing product that affects the work of muscles and the motion of joints.
What the taping is aimed at
Taping is about managing load, movement patterns and function, and it is based on sound clinical reasoning during your evaluation.
- Managing the load on a painful muscle or joint
- Changing a movement pattern that is part of the problem
- Supporting function while you keep moving
Where it fits in your plan
Taping is one piece of a plan that can also include Manual Therapy, Dry Needling and Therapeutic Exercise. The therapist decides at your evaluation whether it fits.
Coverage for taping depends on your plan, so ask us when you call. We accept most insurance plans and verify your benefits before you arrive. Auto injury liens, Medpay and workers compensation are accepted, and there is a self-pay option. Call the office to confirm your plan.
We see patients from Chubbuck and Pocatello. Idaho allows direct access to physical therapy, so you do not need a referral from a doctor to begin. Some insurance plans, and Medicare typically, may still require one. If you are unsure, call us and we will check your plan.
Elastic therapeutic taping in Chubbuck, Idaho
Call or request an appointment at our Chubbuck clinic. We see patients from Chubbuck, Pocatello and the surrounding area.
We see patients at our Chubbuck clinic from Chubbuck and Pocatello, Idaho.