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Muscle Techniques:
The muscle is optimally stretched and the tape is applied unstretched. (In painful conditions the tissue would not be stretched)
 
The tape is applied lengthwise applying the base first without pulling. Then when the muscle is relaxed the tape will wrinkle and form the convolutions necesary to lift the skin from the underlying fascia.
In the regulation of muscle tone the direction of application of the tapeis crucial. When the tape is applied from the origin of the muscle to insertion, the technique is supportive. Applying Kinesiology Tape from muscle insertion to its origin assists in rehabilitation.
Experience is also an important factor in determining which way to apply Kinesiology Tape. Gently moving the skin around the affected area to determine the differential areas of pain would show the experienced practitioner the direction to apply Kinesiology Tape. The tape would be applied in the direction the skin was moved before the patient's least painful motion. i.e. away from the pain.
These techniques can also be used prophylactically to support a weakened muscle, or in relaxation of muscle tension.
Fascia Technique:
Application of Kinesiology tape in the fascia method involves using light to moderate tension (25-50%)
 
Generally, for fascia correction a Y strip of Kinesio Tape is used. The base is applied with no tension, then by applying light tension the tape is gently stretched in the direction fascia correction is desired.
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Mechanical Correction Technique:
The purpose of this technique is to reposition or return structures to their normal position.
 
Again using the Y cut, the base is applied with no tension. The practitioner may want to to place the patient's joint in a position which may either stimulate or limit motion. Moderate to severe tension is then applied to the Kinesiology Tape (50-75%) (More tension can be applied over a tendon or ligament) Apply one tail, then the other with the desired tension. This method results in the taped areas under the tails to be pulled towards the base.
Ligament Technique:
 
Kinesiology Tape is normally fully stretched in the middle, then applied with each end being anchored with no stretch
Lymphatic Correction Technique:
In lymphoedema Kinesiology tape is usually appled using the fan cut technique. This involves cutting the tape into 4, 5 or sometimes 6 strips with a base.
 
The base is applied without tension slightly above the lymph node to which the lymphatic drainage is being directed. With the patient in a stretched position the fans are directed at the appropriate lymphatic duct, with minimal stretch (0-15%)
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