Equine kinesiology tape (CPD)

Kinesiology tape has always been an area of interest for me, having had it applied to myself before to support the recovery of a knee injury, I have therefore been keen to learn how it can benefit our horses aswell and learn how to apply it in my practice.

On the 12 May, I headed back to Writtle Univeristy for the day to attend a CPD event hosted by Equine K taping. The day consisted of recapping body systems such as the fascia and circulatory systems before getting hands on with the tape by applying tape to one another. This helped us grasp a true understanding as to how the tape feels to the horses as well as the difference in support and effects provided by various types of tape. The afternoon was full of practicing the application of various different designs to support the horses musculoskeletal health, whether the aim was to support joints, encourage lymphatic drainage or decompress tight muscles. I am looking forward to being able to implement this within my treatment.

The science behind it...

• Kinesioloy tape works by having an adhesive backing which attaches to the horses hair. Once this adhesive has become active, it begins to lift the hair and subsequent layer of skin. This allows for a decompressive effect by producing more room for soft tissue structures such as fascia and muscle to move and glide easily. For example, compare an area of restriction to a kink in a hose pipe... the water will not flow as easily, the minute the kink is removed the water flows at full force. Kinesiology tape works exactly the same allowing for improved local lymphatic and circulation by lifting and reducing restrictions.

• This decompressive effect also means that there is reduced pressure on pain sensors (nociceptors) which therefore reduce the severity and frequency of pain signals being sent to the brain and the subsequent sensation of pain.

• Improvements in propricotion have also been noted, tape application provides a low intensity non-painful stimulus to sensors which therefore can help improve neural pathway signalling and induce improved limb use and muscle activation.