Kinesiology is the study of the science of movement dealing with muscles, bones, ligaments, tendons and other body parts and how these structures interact and influence each other.

Today, horses are primarily used for sports and entertainment. Horses that participate in events such as equestrian show jumping, barrel racing, dressage, polo and horse racing, to name a few, are prone to a wide range of soft tissue and other injuries. Kinesiology tapes may help to support the injured area during recovery.

Our kinesiology tapes for use on horses and animals are manufactured using either a cotton or synthetic fabric which has a luxurious, silky feel and lasts longer. TTB’s kinesiology tapes are specialized, elastic, waterproof tapes with self adhering glue on the underside of the tape specially engineered to stick onto a horse’s hide. The patented, wave design in the adhesive helps to minimize any skin irritations while the elasticity enables the animal to retain normal physiological movements. The hypoallergenic, acrylic adhesive coating is activated by rubbing the kinesiology tape after it has been applied.

Our kinesiology tapes help support joint mobility by adhering to joints without restricting the normal physiological range of motion. Our kinesiology tapes may provide support when treating spontaneous over strain in horse ligament and horse tendon injuries such as DDFT (deep digital flexor tendon) and other joint injuries.

Skeletal muscles which can be controlled voluntarily are responsible for movements in the horse. Equine kinesiology taping may be helpful for muscle soreness or muscle problems. Kinesiology tapes may also be used to support arthritic joints, sprained sacroiliac joint and other joint injuries and may to help provide stability to the injured area.

Horse related injuries and infections can cause tissue fluid to leak into the extremities of the horse and consequently result in fluid build up and joint inflammation. Horses are therefore prone to developing lymphangitis (stocking up).

Kinesiology tapes cut in the shape of a fan pattern may help improve the flow of fluids and may help with the healing process. Taping can be used in a wide range of areas where soft tissue injuries or dysfunction can occur, for example: neck, shoulder, low back, knee and stifle pain.

Our equine kinesio tapes in cotton and synthetic are available in a few different colors and come in either 5 cm width or 10 cm width.

Our other horse/animal products include: bulk kinesiology tapes 32 metres (105 ft.) in length in cotton and synthetic; cohesive bandages in various sizes and colors and cold, wet, cohesive bandages that require no refrigeration.

NOTE: OUR SYNTHETIC KINESIOLOGY TAPES ARE AVAILABLE BY SPECIAL ORDER ONLY.

Prior to taping it is important to obtain a full medical history including gait and postural analysis, urinalysis, blood tests, x-rays and any other tests from the trainer, groomer and or the Veterinary Doctor.

Kinesiology tapes may be useful, along with treatments prescribed by Veterinarian Doctors, Physiotherapists, Massage Therapists, Chiropractors and may include other treatments such as trigger point therapy, mobilization and acupuncture.

Although the use of kinesiology tape is beneficial in some circumstances and has become more and more popular it is contra-indicated under certain conditions. See below for a list of contra-indications and refer to the insert in our boxes.

Caution: Results have not been clinically proven and may vary. Using our kinesiology tapes and bandages does not replace veterinary advice. It is essential that you consult your veterinary doctor or any other equine/animal therapist prior to use. Use at your own risk.

Warranty is strictly limited to replacement of product.

Any information provided in our boxes, packaging, website, insert in the box or any other promotional material is subject to the above Caution and Warranty without exception.

Contraindications:

There are several conditions for which kinesiology tapes should not be used.

Here are some examples:

• Infections and skin diseases
• Open wounds and fractures
• Malignant cancers
• Advanced kidney diseases
• Congestive heart failure and any cardiovascular conditions
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
• During fever
• During pregnancy
  
  

Different styles of cutting kinesiology tapes for horses:

I-Strips - cut the length desired and round off corners. Commonly used for pain reduction, mechanical joint support.

X-Strips - cut 2 strips of tape the same way as I-strip and round off all corners. Layer one strip on top of the other in the desired X fashion.

Y-strips - leave a 1 inch base at the bottom uncut. Cut the rest of the strip down the middle lengthwise in half. Round off all corners. These are commonly used for joint support and stability.

Fan strips - cut narrow (less than 0.5cm wide) strips lengthwise leaving a 1 inch base uncut at the bottom. Carefully fan out and apply to the affected area. Fan strips are used to improve the flow of built up fluids.

ILLUSTRATED, STEP BY STEP INSTRUCTIONS TO APPLY KINESIOLOGY TAPE FOR HORSES. CLICK ON THE IMAGE BELOW TO ZOOM INTO THE FINE PRINT.

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Instructions on how to apply Kinesiology tape for horses and other animals:

1. Thoroughly clean the affected and surrounding area and remove all lotions, oils, sweat and debris from the animal using alcohol wipes.

2. If the animal has a long coat trim and remove excess hair or fur to prevent pain when removing the tape.

3. Dry the area thoroughly before applying tape.

4. Measure the length of the affected area.

5. Cut the tape to the desired length and round the edges for better adherence and to prevent it from getting caught on the horse’s blankets.

6. Use a pre-cut tape or use a Teflon coated scissors and cut a piece of tape as per the measurement in step 4.

7. Twist and tear the paper backing of the tape an inch or two only from one end. Avoid touching the sticky under side with your fingers. Hold on to the remaining part of the paper backing and read the illustrated, step by step Instructions on how to apply the tape for a particular body part in our website. Zoom in to read fine print. The same Instructions are also enclosed in our box.

8. Do not over stretch the tape as this can cause itching and skin irritation.

9. Immediately after applying the tape use moderate pressure and rub the surface of the tape 3 - 4 times to activate the heat sensitive glue. Never use a hair dryer for this purpose.

10. If properly applied the support tape can be left on the affected area for 3 - 5 days. Certain applications may require the tape to be removed after a specified time. Read the illustrated, step by step instructions in our website for more details. Zoom in to read the fine print. The same Instructions are also enclosed in our box.

11. The tape is water proof.

12. Do not to startle the animal when applying the kinesio tape. After application of the tape walk the horse for about 30 minutes prior to engaging in any strenuous activities.

13. Horse taping for inflammation and swelling must be changed daily until swelling abates.

14. Energy Meridian horse taping should be removed after 1 - 3 hours.

Instructions to remove Kinesiology tape for animals:

Removing the tape can be painful if not done properly. To avoid or minimize pain follow these instructions carefully.

1. First apply lotion and / or oils around the skin to lubricate the area and loosen the adhesive.

2. Gently pull the tape keeping the tape as close as possible to the body by folding or rolling the tape onto itself as you pull.

3. When pulling the tape with one hand use the other hand simultaneously to apply counter pressure on the affected area to make removal easier.

4. Avoid pulling and stretching the tape away from the body as this can cause pain and skin irritation.

5. If skin becomes itchy or irritated consult your veterinarian or health care provider immediately.

Effects of color:

The studies on the effects of colors have so far proven to be inconclusive. Our view is that it is a subjective choice and one should use any color of one’s choice. It would be fair to say most people have preferences for colors and we recommend that you choose the colors that appeal to you the most. Color does not affect the quality or performance of our tapes.

Safety measures and precautions when taping horses and other animals:

1. It is always wise to exercise extreme caution when working with horses or other large animals. Approach them from the shoulder side and not from directly in front or behind as this may startle the animal.

2. Check with the horses owner or groomer if there are any sensitive areas that should be avoided.

3. If anything falls on the ground near the horse while taping, do not bend over to pick it up to avoid being kicked.

4. When taping on the hind area of the animal always keep one hand on their behind to let them know you are there.

5. When walking around horse leave sufficient space between yourself and the animal to avoid getting injured.

6. Exercise extreme caution when applying very long strips of tape as the tapes can blow in the wind and startle the animal.

7. Although beneficial the taping protocol are not intended to replace the diagnoses and advise of a veterinary doctor.

NOTE: PRIOR TO TAPING HORSES OR ANIMALS IT IS IMPORTANT TO CONSULT A VETERINARIAN OR OTHER EQUINE THERAPIST. OUR TAPES ARE TO BE USED AT YOUR OWN RISK. OUR WARRANTY IS STRICTLY LIMITED TO THE REPLACEMENT OF THE PRODUCT. READ OUR CAUTIONARY NOTES IN OUR WEBSITE, IN OUR BOX INSERT AND ON THE BOX TOO.

Tips For Safe Riding:

Today horses are mainly used in sporting, entertainment industries and for equestrian events such as show jumping, dressage, polo and horse racing. Unfortunately, even the most functionally fit and healthy horse and rider are prone to getting injured.

Taking safety precautions for both the horse and for the rider is of the utmost importance. Salient education may include active exercises, training and use of equine kinesiology tapes to provide support and stability. It is important to wear proper attire including the use of a properly fitting equestrian helmet which has an appropriate safety rating. A fully equipped first aid kit and the basic knowledge of how to use the kit are essential. When riding always be prepared for emergencies. Keep the contact number of the nearest EMS or first responders close at hand.

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