021 141 4958Canine Kinesiology Taping (CKT)
What is Canine Kinesiology Taping?
First used by acupuncturists and chiropractors in Japan; today kinesiology tape is used by practitioners throughout the world to treat injuries and improve sports performance for humans and dogs.
Kinesiology tape is a stretchy, athletic tape that sticks directly to the skin (in people) and to the hair (in animals) to improve function
- It stretches along the longitudinal axis
- Contains no medications
- Does not restrict motion
- Breathable and hypo-allergenic
In the past 10 years, practitioners have started using the tape on animals with great success
“Canine Kinesiology Taping has many benefits for dogs that range from improving mobility, reducing pain and assisting in recovery after surgery or injury”
CKT can help with…
Pain Reduction
Kinesiology tape is able to reduce pain by stimulating nerve endings called mechanoreceptors. The more mechanoreceptors that are stimulated, the less pain receptors (called nociceptors) that can fire. Naturally reduces pain by blocking nociceptors
Improved Lymphatic/ Blood circulationÂ
Mechanically decompresses the skin and soft tissue. Leads to increased lymph and blood flow, which leads to decreased inflammation
Muscle and Joint Support
Kinesiology tape can be placed over or around a specific muscle/ joint to support it during movement. Unstable joints can also be stabilised
Increased Proprioception
Movement with the tape on stimulates proprioceptive nerves. These nerves contribute to the brain’s sense of where the body parts are in space during movement. Proprioceptive can be altered due to injuries and joint misalignment
Canine Kinesiology Taping application…
Kinesiology taping can be done after a massage treatment or as stand-alone treatment which does not take long. The tape normally lasts 1-3 days depending on how active your dog is, though no longer than 3 days. For injuries or post surgeries, it is best to continue taping until fully recovered. A treatment plan can be discussed that suits the needs of your dog.