Do Kinesio tapes increase the skin exposure to pathogenic bacteria?

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Dermatology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Kinesio tapes (KTs) are widely used in physical therapy and athletics.
• Concerns exist regarding potential microbial contamination and effects on skin microbiota from prolonged KTs use.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate if extended wear of KTs increases exposure to antibiotic-resistant opportunistic pathogens.
• To assess the impact of KTs on normal human skin bacteria.

Main Methods:

• Ten volunteers wore KTs on their arms for five consecutive days.
• Microorganisms were isolated from tape fragments and identified.
• Antibiotic resistance was determined, and KTs' effect on bacterial growth was tested.

Main Results:

• KTs accumulated diverse environmental bacteria, including eight opportunistic pathogens resistant to antibiotics.
• No KTs inhibited Staphylococcus aureus growth; one tape inhibited non-pathogenic bacteria.
• The adhesive material of the tapes inhibited all tested bacteria.

Conclusions:

• KTs can increase exposure to antibiotic-resistant environmental pathogens.
• Prolonged KTs use may alter skin microbiota, potentially raising infection risks.