Elastic therapeutic tape: do they have the same material properties?

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Sports Medicine
• Rehabilitation Science

Background:

• Elastic therapeutic tape is widely used in rehabilitation and sports injury treatment.
• The effectiveness of tape application depends on its elastic properties and appropriate tension.
• Limited studies exist on the material properties of commercially available elastic tapes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate and compare the material properties of different brands of elastic therapeutic tape.
• To provide data that can inform clinicians on selecting and applying tape effectively.

Main Methods:

• Five brands of elastic therapeutic tape were tested: KinesioTex(®), ATex, Mueller, 3M, and ThaiTape.
• A Material Testing System was used to apply tensile force and measure stress, load, and Young's modulus at various elongation percentages.
• One-way ANOVA with post hoc testing was employed for statistical analysis.

Main Results:

• Significant differences were found between brands in maximum elongation and Young's modulus at all tested percentages.
• No significant differences were observed in maximum load and maximum stress among the tested brands.

Conclusions:

• Commercial elastic therapeutic tapes possess distinct mechanical properties.
• Clinicians, including physiotherapists, must be aware of these mechanical differences for optimal application of kinesio tape in patient care.