Infrared Kinesiology Tape Increases Skin Temperature and Red Blood Cell Flux at Rest.

BACKGROUND

Kinesiology tape is used to treat various MSK conditions. The mechanisms behind kinesiology tape are not fully understood, although several theories exist. Research aims to understand the relationship between kinesiology tape and blood flow, as the current literature cannot discern kinesiology tape's effects over placebo.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to examine the changes in skin temperature and cutaneous blood flow of the unilateral erector spinae with the application of Thrive "Far Infrared" kinesiology tape.

STUDY

DESIGN

Controlled Laboratory Study.

METHODS

Twenty-five participants had Thrive "Far Infrared" kinesiology tape randomly assigned to one side of their back while Laser Doppler Flowmetry (LDF) probes monitored red cell flux and tissue temperature bilaterally for 40 total minutes of measurement. While the participants were maintained a prone position, baseline data were gathered over 5 minutes, followed by a 30-minute taped period where the LDF probes continuously recorded data. A final, non-taped 5-minute period to record return to baseline data concluded the session. A two-way mixed repeated measures analysis of variance was used to assess for changes in flux and temperature over time.

RESULTS

The tape side demonstrated greater flux and cutaneous temperature values compared to the non-taped side (p <0.001, d=0.864) at all follow-up periods. Effects lingered even into the post-removal period.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates an increase in cutaneous blood flow and skin temperature with the application of Thrive "Far Infrared" kinesiology tape in individuals in static positioning. The clinical significance of these findings remains unclear.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 2B.