KT tape is growing in popularity thanks to its durability and ability to provide support and a full range of motion. But even though using KT tape is straightforward, there are ways to optimize its use with some extra care. Here are some care instructions for KT tape that will help you get the most out of every use.
What to Know About KT Tape Before Getting Started
KT Tape is a kinesiology tape specifically used for supporting muscles and lessening pain during physical activity. Its elasticity makes it easy to apply and use. But if it's your first time using this tape, knowing how to use it and where it'll be most effective might be tough.
Where you're putting it on your body will ultimately determine how you apply it. But regardless of where you place it, you should apply it and then wait at least an hour before you start physical activity. This wait will ensure that the tape is correctly adhered. You should also only apply KT tape to clean, dry skin. Use rubbing alcohol to clean the skin and remove any dirt or oils.
Just remember not to overstretch your tape when you apply it. If you aren't sure what that looks like, it's better to be cautious and under-stretch. You should also avoid stretching the last two inches at each end of the tape, which could affect how well it adheres to your skin. These last two inches are the anchor point, and applying them correctly with no stretch will help your tape stay well adhered to the skin.
Learn more about applying KT Tape.
Different Types of KT Tape Applications
Here are some details about the typical shapes you can cut your KT tape into.
Y Shape
Y shapes are excellent for creating barriers around painful or sore body areas. You can use multiple strips to create the shape or cut a large strip down the middle, layering the two prongs of the Y across the muscle and the last on the bottom to connect the other two. This shape is great for pain behind the knee or by your elbow. It's also fantastic at securing the position of a kneecap.
I Shape
An I strip is one piece of tape straight up and down. You can use multiple I strips to build other shapes or use it as its own shape. One I shape is helpful for tendon, rotator cuff, or quadricep pain, but you can use it on your back to maintain better posture.
X Shape
The X shape is usually reserved for when you need the tape to assist a larger area of the body. The hamstrings are a great example, as placing the tape here can also help you with the range of motion in your hips.
Fan
Fan shapes are strips you cut so they "fan" out, typically to help reduce swelling in legs or arms. This shape is frequently used to aid with managing lymphedema, as the pressure from the tape can help drain lymphatic fluid. You may also see this shape referred to as the "web" cut.
Donut
You can get a donut shape by cutting a hole in the middle of your tape. This is another shape that's best for larger parts of the body, and it's often used to help decompress and strengthen any damaged tissue. It can also keep overused muscles in check so you can still do physical activity without pain.
And while you can cut your KT Tape into may different patterns, most our applications simply use the standard pre-cut I Shape of tape. You can follow these instructions easily in our step-by-step video tutorials.
KT Tape Instructions: How to Get the Most From Your Tape
If you're still wondering about burning questions like "Can you shower with KT tape?" and "How to remove KT tape," this is the section for you. Here are the answers you'll need to use KT tape correctly.
How Long Can You Leave KT Tape On?
KT tape usually lasts around three to five days. You can still swim or shower with the tape on during this time. Try not to wear your tape for longer than five to seven days, depending on tape type.
Can You Wear KT Tape Every Day?
You can wear KT tape regularly, provided you're still switching it out every few days. But there's no hard and fast rule saying you need to skip days between use. Listen to your body and if you are supporting an injury that isn’t improving, consider a visit to a medical professional.
How Do You Properly Remove KT Tape?
To make tape removal more comfortable, you may want to properly soften the tape's adhesive before you try removing it. A simple oil, like baby oil or skin lotion, will facilitate faster and easier removal. Let the baby oil or soap sit for five to fifteen minutes. Slowly pull back the tape as you hold the skin in the other direction.
Where Do You Store It?
KT tape will perform best when you store it in a cool, dry place. Try to keep your tape away from direct sunlight, high humidity, and high temperatures.
What Do You Do When Your Tape Gets Wet?
Your KT tape doesn't stop working just because you get it wet. But if you want to dry it, you can use a towel and pat it dry. You could also use a hair dryer — but keep it on the low setting. Otherwise, it may cause the adhesive to soften and release too quickly.
Rest easy knowing a shower or a dip in the pool won't affect how well your tape works. KT Tape adhesives are designed with real life in mind, and they resist sweat and water so you can get on with your workout, day at the office, or whatever is on your schedule.
What Happens When You Apply KT Tape Incorrectly?
You could make the tape less effective if you apply it to wet skin, as this can cause it to fall off prematurely.
One of the more common mistakes when using KT Tape is stretching it too far, or over-stretching the tape. You’ll notice that each of our video tutorials give guidance on how far to stretch the tape. When in doubt, you can stretch the tape less, as your body movement will create some of the stretch needed as your body stretches and bends, especially on joints like knees of elbows. Over-stretching tape can sometimes case skin irritation. If this happens to you, remove the tape softly and apply less stretch next time.
KT Tape Care Wrap-Up
Even though there's a lot to consider when applying and caring for your KT tape, using KT tape is relatively simple. If you're unsure where or how to use your tape, you can consult a specialist or review more specific information online.
With some understanding surrounding the different shapes, how and where to use it, and instructions for application and removal, anyone can apply KT tape effectively.
*Not clinically proven for all injuries.
