You may or may not have heard of rocktape, a kinesiology tape which can be used in a variety of circumstances, and in a variety of musculoskeletal complaints.
Rocktape’s elasticity causes skin to form wrinkles, which decompresses the tissues below the skin to improve blood and lymphatic flow, improve the slide and slide between tissue layers, and altering the perception of pain and improving body awareness. Here at Total Balance Healthcare our Osteopaths use Rocktape for a number of concerns such as intervertebral disc pain, tendinopathies, and bursitis, but also in pregnancy. We find that certain taping techniques utilised during pregnancy can really help to relieve the common aches and pains associated with postural changes.
Rocktape is completely safe to use during pregnancy, there are no contraindications unless there’s a known reaction to the tape (we always recommend that if you’re unsure, to test a bit of tape on some skin to see how you react before applying a large amount of tape). Below are two of my favourite taping techniques using Rocktape in pregnancy.
POSTURAL TAPING FOR UPPER TO MID BACK PAIN
During pregnancy the body naturally adjusts to compensate for the growing bubs, and subsequently your growing belly. As you can see in the image below, the body adapts by increasing the curves in your upper and lower back. This can lead to pain and stiffness through the upper-mid back, and along with hands-on treatment of this area, taping can be very beneficial in helping to take the pressure of the area. This taping helps to encourage retraction the shoulder blades to lessen tension through the shoulder and neck muscles.
DIAPHRAGM SUPPORT
Quite often in utero, your baby can sit quite high up underneath the ribs which can cause some discomfort and reflux symptoms. This taping technique shown below can help lift the outer tissues in the upper belly, away from the diaphragm and oesophagus to help reduce reflux symptoms. This is also a great taping technique for Mum’s who are pregnant, and are experiencing a breathless type of feeling, due to their babies sitting high up underneath the ribcage.
Have a look over at our Total Balance instagram to see how Sarah uses rocktape to ease the tension through this pregnant mumma’s diaphgram!
Any questions about how Rocktape may help your aches and pains in general, or in your pregnancy? Give us a call at the clinic or jump online to book in!
Dr. Sarah Duggan (osteopath at Total Balance Health)
DISCLAIMER: THIS BLOG POST IS AN EDUCATIONAL TOOL ONLY. IT IS NOT A REPLACEMENT FOR MEDICAL ADVICE FROM A REGISTERED AND QUALIFIED DOCTOR OR HEALTH PROFESSIONAL.
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