Kinesio Taping in Jeddah: What Sports Taping Is and When It Is Used

Sports and kinesio taping is one of the services at IPC Jeddah, the International Rehabilitation Physiotherapy Center in Al Zahra District. Here are short answers to what patients ask about it.

What is kinesio taping?

Kinesio tape, also called kinesiology tape, is a thin, elastic, adhesive cotton tape that a physiotherapist applies to the skin over a muscle or a joint. Unlike rigid sports tape, it stretches with the body, so you can keep moving while you wear it.

What is kinesio taping used for?

Physiotherapists use it as a support alongside other treatment: for sore or overworked muscles, mild sprains, swelling after an injury, knee, shoulder and back complaints, and to remind the body of a better posture or movement. It does not replace exercise or hands-on treatment.

How does kinesio tape work?

The tape gently lifts and supports the skin and gives the area extra sensory feedback. Many people feel less pain and more secure when they move. Research on how large the effect is gives mixed results, which is why physiotherapists use taping as one part of a plan and not as the whole treatment.

What is the difference between kinesio tape and rigid sports tape?

Rigid tape is not elastic and is used to limit movement in a joint, for example an ankle after a sprain. Kinesio tape is elastic and allows full movement. Your physiotherapist chooses the type according to whether the joint needs to be restricted or supported.

How long can the tape stay on?

Usually a few days. You can shower with it; pat it dry afterwards. Remove it earlier if the skin itches, turns red or blisters.

Who should not use kinesio tape?

Do not put tape over open wounds or over infected or irritated skin, and avoid it if you have had an allergic reaction to adhesive plasters. See a doctor first if you have a swollen, painful calf, an injury with severe pain or deformity, or swelling you cannot explain.

Where can I get kinesio taping in Jeddah?

IPC Jeddah (International Rehabilitation Physiotherapy Center) is on Hisham Mohiedeen bin Nazer Street, Al Zahra District, Jeddah. Sports injuries are one of the clinic's core strengths: Ulrich Schneider, who leads the clinic, attended two Olympic Games, Atlanta 1996 and Sydney 2000, with the German National Athletics Team. The clinic works to German physiotherapy standards and has more than 40 years of experience. It is open Saturday to Thursday, 09:30 to 20:00, and closed on Friday. Payment is by cash or card. To book, call 050 667 3533.

More questions? See our Physiotherapy in Jeddah FAQ

Read more: Sports injury physiotherapy · Knee pain treatment in Jeddah