Physical Therapists are typically skeptical about the uses of kinesiology taping. There have been studies attempting to test if taping is simply fact or fiction. Most of the studies have either been mostly based off of anecdotal results or did not directly target the main focus of taping. Although there have not been clear answers and results of taping, there have been studies that explain the mechanics around the uses of taping. There are four major functions of taping and they all work in different ways to help relieve pain within the targeted area.

The first function of taping is muscle support. After a physical therapy session, sometimes tape is placed on the injured area to support and relieve some of the muscle contractions. It helps …show more content…
Within the injured body, sometimes the joints are too closely packed together and may be rubbing against each other causing pain and discomfort. With tape, it is also beneficial because it increases the range of motion in joints. And once the joints are not too closely packed, then the muscles around it are loosened and less tense.

The third function pertains to the Endogenous Analgesic System. This particular system in the body secretes endorphins from the brain in response to pain within the body. These endorphins help the body heal itself. There are neurotransmitters such as endogenous opioids and monoamines such as serotonin and norepinephrine that are released throughout the body. Serotonin helps regulate the well-being and happiness within the human body. While norepinephrine pertains to the stress within the body and controls the “flight-or-flight” response within the body.

The last major function of taping is how the it helps with the bodily fluids flow within the body. The tape helps with blood and lymphatic circulation in the body. The lymphatic system refers to the network of vessels that connect the tissues to the blood stream. It also helps reduce the inflammation in the