how to kt tape tennis elbow

3 min read 14-10-2024

Kinesio Tape for Tennis Elbow: A Comprehensive Guide

Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a common condition that causes pain and tenderness on the outside of the elbow. This often occurs due to overuse of the forearm muscles, particularly during activities involving repetitive wrist and hand motions like tennis, painting, or using a computer mouse.

While rest and physical therapy are often recommended, Kinesio tape has gained popularity as an alternative or supplementary treatment. But how effective is it? Let's delve into the evidence and explore how to properly apply KT tape for tennis elbow.

Does Kinesio Tape Really Work for Tennis Elbow?

Several studies have investigated the effectiveness of Kinesio taping for tennis elbow, with varying results.

A 2017 study published in the Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy found that Kinesio tape, when combined with traditional therapy, was more effective than traditional therapy alone in reducing pain and improving grip strength in patients with tennis elbow. [1] This suggests that KT tape might serve as a valuable adjunct to conventional treatment.
A 2021 study published in the Journal of Manual & Manipulative Therapy investigated the impact of Kinesio taping on pain and function in individuals with chronic tennis elbow. They found that while KT tape provided short-term pain relief, it did not significantly improve functional outcomes compared to a control group. [2]

These conflicting findings highlight the need for further research to fully understand the role of Kinesio tape in managing tennis elbow.

How Does Kinesio Tape Help?

The proposed mechanisms of action for Kinesio tape in treating tennis elbow include:

Proprioceptive Feedback: Kinesio tape is designed to lift the skin, potentially stimulating sensory receptors. This could enhance proprioception, allowing individuals to better sense their elbow joint position and movement.
Muscle Support: KT tape can provide support to the muscles around the elbow, potentially reducing strain on the affected area. This could help decrease inflammation and pain.
Lymphatic Drainage: Some proponents believe that Kinesio tape promotes lymphatic drainage, aiding in reducing inflammation and promoting healing. However, scientific evidence supporting this claim is limited.

How to Apply Kinesio Tape for Tennis Elbow

While numerous taping techniques exist, a common approach involves applying tape from the lateral epicondyle (the bony bump on the outside of the elbow) towards the hand, following the direction of the forearm muscles.

Here’s a general guide:

Prepare the Skin: Cleanse the skin with rubbing alcohol to remove any oils or lotions. Shave the area if necessary for better adhesion.
Start at the Lateral Epicondyle: Begin taping with an anchor tape about 2 inches below the lateral epicondyle, extending it across the elbow and securing it on the medial side.
Apply the "I" Tape: Start at the lateral epicondyle and apply tape diagonally upwards toward the hand, following the path of the forearm muscles. Leave about a half-inch gap between each strip of tape.
Apply the "Y" Tape: Apply a "Y" shaped tape, with the base anchored at the lateral epicondyle, and the arms extending diagonally upwards towards the hand.
Repeat on the Other Side: Repeat steps 2-4 on the opposite side of the elbow, applying tape to the medial epicondyle (on the inner elbow).
Secure the Tape: Once applied, gently rub the tape to activate its adhesive properties.

Important Note: Always consult with a healthcare professional or a certified Kinesio tape practitioner for personalized instructions. They can assess your specific condition and provide appropriate taping techniques based on your individual needs.

Beyond KT Tape: A Multifaceted Approach

It’s important to remember that Kinesio tape is just one tool in the toolbox for managing tennis elbow. A comprehensive approach typically involves a combination of treatments including:

Rest: Avoiding activities that exacerbate pain is crucial.
Ice: Apply ice to the affected area for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day.
Pain Medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or naproxen can help alleviate pain and inflammation.
Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can provide exercises to strengthen the forearm muscles and improve flexibility.
Injections: In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be used to reduce inflammation.
Surgery: Surgery is rarely required for tennis elbow and is usually considered only as a last resort.

Conclusion

While Kinesio tape may offer some benefits for tennis elbow, it's essential to approach it as a complementary therapy and not a standalone solution. By understanding the mechanisms behind KT tape and combining it with other treatments, you can improve your chances of successful recovery. Always seek advice from a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your specific condition.

References

[1] A.S. Nogueira et al., "Efficacy of kinesio taping for patients with lateral epicondylitis," J. Orthop. Sports Phys. Ther., vol. 47, no. 10, pp. 762–768, 2017.

[2] P.A. MacDermid et al., "The effectiveness of Kinesio taping for chronic lateral epicondylitis: a randomized controlled trial," J. Man. Manip. Ther., vol. 29, no. 1, pp. 1–8, 2021.