Keta Application Techniques For Knee Pain Relief

Kinesiology taping, or kinesio taping, is a practice used to relieve knee pain, improve knee support, and treat and prevent injuries. The tape is placed on specific locations to manage pain by controlling muscles and joints. The McConnell technique, for instance, uses rigid tape to align the kneecap and ease pain. It is used to treat knee osteoarthritis, patellofemoral pain syndrome, and chondromalacia patella. The kinesio taping technique, on the other hand, uses flexible elastic tape to support the knee while allowing a good range of motion.

Kinesiology taping technique for knee pain

Kinesiology taping is a technique used to relieve knee pain, improve knee support, and treat and prevent injuries. It involves applying tape to specific locations around the knee to manage pain and control muscles and joints. Here are the steps for applying kinesiology tape for knee pain:

Supplies:

• Kinesiology tape (e.g. CureTape®)
• Scissors
• Clean skin and trimmed dense hair, if necessary

Instructions:

For pain around the kneecap:

• Sit or lie with your knee bent.
• Place the base of the Y-tape gently halfway up the thigh muscle.
• Apply the tape with a slight stretch towards the kneecap, positioning the split part of the tape around the edge of the kneecap.
• Bring the ends of the tape together without stretching and secure them on the tendon below the kneecap.
• For additional support and function improvement, apply a second Y-tape. Place the base on the tuberosity (the bony lump below the kneecap) and position the two strips along the edge of the kneecap, one on each side.

For osteoarthritis, instability, or strained/torn knee ligaments:

• Position your knee in a neutral position (not bent or straight).
• Place kinesiology tape on the side of the knee where it hurts, starting from the middle and pulling it tight like a rubber band.
• Since the inside of the knee has crisscrossed tissue, use two pieces of tape for that area.
• With the knee slightly bent, apply these two pieces of tape in a crisscross pattern, still pulling them tight.
• Ensure you do not pull too hard on the parts of the tape that stick to the skin.

For inflammation of the synovial capsule and fluid in the knee (Synovial Plica Syndrome):

• Cut an X-shape into a piece of tape.
• Apply the tape without stretch in the centre of the knee crease.
• Guide the strips with minimal stretch in an X-shape towards the sides of the knee, ensuring the tape does not restrict your range of motion.

General instructions:

• Clean the skin carefully before applying the tape, using rubbing alcohol or hand sanitiser.
• Round the corners of each strip before applying to prevent the corners from lifting prematurely.
• Rub the tape after applying to create friction and heat, which helps the adhesive work effectively.
• When removing the tape, avoid ripping it off. Gently peel it away while pressing down on the untaped skin.

McConnell taping technique for knee osteoarthritis

The McConnell taping technique is a simple, inexpensive, self-management strategy for knee osteoarthritis. It was developed by Jenny McConnell, a physical therapist in Australia, and was first introduced in 1984. It is a type of patellar taping that helps keep the kneecap in alignment, allowing for normal movement and reducing pain. It can also help the muscles that hold the kneecap in place to develop properly.

To perform the McConnell taping technique, follow these steps:

• Begin with the patient lying on their back with the knee slightly bent and completely relaxed. You may place a foam roller or rolled-up towel under the knee.
• Start the tape in line with the middle of the kneecap at the outer aspect of the knee.
• Using your thumb, gently push the patella towards the inner aspect of the knee while simultaneously pulling the skin at the inner aspect of the knee towards the patella using your fingers.
• Finish this taping technique at the inner aspect of the knee, ensuring you have created some wrinkling of the skin.
• Repeat this process 1-3 times, depending on the amount of support required.

The McConnell taping technique can help reduce pain and improve disability in patients with knee osteoarthritis. It can also have a positive effect on quadriceps function, knee joint during gait, and the activation/timing of the vastii. Additionally, it can help realign the patella.

Rigid and elastic tape types for knee support

Knee taping is a practice used to relieve knee pain and improve knee support, which can treat and prevent various injuries. The type of tape used can vary depending on the reason for taping and the specific needs of the individual. The two main types of tape used for knee support are rigid tape and elastic tape (also known as kinesiology tape or kinesio tape).

Rigid Tape

Rigid tape is a non-elastic tape that is designed to keep an area from moving. It is often used for rigid taping or McConnell taping techniques, which help to hold the joint in place and improve stability. This type of tape can be quite painful to remove if applied directly to the skin, so it is recommended to use an underwrap or pre-wrap to prevent skin irritation. When using rigid tape, it is important to avoid taping too tightly as this can cause limited motion, skin rash, or shearing.

Elastic Tape

Elastic tape, or kinesiology tape, is made of stretchy cotton with adhesive on one side. It is designed to have the same weight and thickness as the skin and offers stability while allowing a wider range of motion compared to rigid tape. Kinesiology tape is often used for kinesio taping or Mulligan taping techniques, which involve lifting the skin to increase the space between blood vessels and cells, reducing pain, and improving soft tissue drainage. This type of tape can stay on the skin for 3 to 5 days.

When taping the knee, it is important to consult a physical therapist or sports medicine doctor to determine the best technique and type of tape for your specific needs. Knee taping should be combined with other treatments, such as therapeutic exercise and medication, for effective pain relief and injury management.

Treating knee pain with weight loss and physical therapy

Knee pain can be a result of various factors, such as injury, arthritis, or obesity. To treat knee pain effectively, a combination of weight loss and physical therapy can be beneficial. Here are some ways in which these two approaches can help alleviate knee pain and improve overall joint health:

Weight Loss for Knee Pain Relief

According to research, there is a direct link between overweight individuals and a higher prevalence of osteoarthritis (OA). Losing weight can significantly reduce pressure on the knees, lower the risk of developing OA, and improve overall joint health. For example, losing 10 pounds of weight can reduce the load on each knee by 40 pounds with every step. This reduction in pressure leads to less wear and tear on the knees, resulting in reduced pain and improved mobility. Additionally, weight loss can help decrease inflammation in the body, which may also contribute to joint pain.

Physical Therapy for Knee Pain Management

Physical therapy is often recommended by doctors to restore strength and improve movement in individuals experiencing knee pain. A licensed physical therapist will develop a customized treatment plan, which typically includes exercises, hands-on therapy, and treatments like ultrasound. The frequency of sessions depends on the severity of the condition and can range from two to three times a week for several weeks. During the initial evaluation, the therapist will assess the range of motion, strength, balance, and gait to tailor the treatment accordingly.

Exercises for Knee Pain Relief

Specific exercises prescribed by a physical therapist can help strengthen the muscles supporting the knees and improve overall mobility. These exercises may include:

• Quad sets and straight leg raises
• Hip-strengthening exercises, as weak hip muscles can contribute to knee pain
• Lower extremity stretches

Additional Therapies for Knee Pain

In addition to exercises, physical therapists may employ other modalities to alleviate knee pain, such as:

• Electrical nerve or muscle stimulation (TENS)
• Application of heat or ice
• Soft tissue massages
• Knee joint mobilization

Combining Weight Loss and Physical Therapy

Together, weight loss and physical therapy can be a powerful approach to treating knee pain. Weight loss reduces pressure and inflammation in the joints, while physical therapy restores strength, flexibility, and mobility. By addressing both aspects, individuals can effectively manage their knee pain, improve their overall joint health, and reduce the risk of further complications.

Injection therapy for knee pain relief

Injection therapy is a recommended treatment option for knee pain caused by osteoarthritis, sports injuries, and other inflammatory conditions. The injections aim to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and improve knee function.

Corticosteroid Injections

Corticosteroids are powerful anti-inflammatory medications that alleviate pain caused by joint inflammation. Doctors inject a small amount of corticosteroids, often accompanied by a local anesthetic, directly into the affected knee joint. This type of injection can provide long-lasting relief, sometimes lasting for several months. However, doctors generally recommend no more than two or three corticosteroid injections per year, as frequent use may cause side effects such as weakening of soft tissues and increased blood sugar levels.

Hyaluronic Acid Injections

Hyaluronic acid injections, also known as viscosupplementation, aim to improve the lubrication and gliding motion of the knee joint. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance found in the synovial fluid surrounding joints, acting as a lubricant and shock absorber. In individuals with osteoarthritis, the concentration of hyaluronic acid is lower than normal, leading to reduced joint function. By injecting hyaluronic acid into the knee joint, doctors aim to facilitate movement and reduce pain associated with osteoarthritis. While some patients report pain relief and improved function, recent research has questioned the effectiveness of viscosupplementation in significantly reducing pain.

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections

PRP injections utilize the patient's blood to promote the repair of damaged tissues, such as cartilage, tendons, ligaments, and muscles. By injecting platelet-rich plasma, which is derived from the patient's own blood, doctors attempt to enhance the body's natural healing abilities. PRP injections have been used to treat various knee conditions, including patellar tendonitis, meniscus tears, and other knee injuries.

Stem Cell Injections

Stem cell injections have the potential to replace damaged tissue cells, suppress inflammation, slow down tissue degeneration, and reduce knee pain. Stem cells are usually collected from the patient's fat tissue, blood, or bone marrow. When injected into an injured knee, stem cells may encourage the regeneration of damaged cartilage and reduce inflammation.

It is important to note that not all injection therapies are suitable for everyone, and individuals should consult with their doctor to determine the most appropriate treatment option for their specific condition.

Frequently asked questions