Support Your Lymphatic Health with Lymphatic Taping

Are you struggling with swelling or lymphatic concerns? Lymphatic taping could be a supportive tool for you. I’m Rita Kako, a certified Lymphedema Therapist, and I offer this service to help promote healthy lymphatic function and enhance your treatment outcomes. Let’s take a closer look at what lymphatic taping involves and how it might benefit you.

Benefits of Lymphatic Taping

- Targets stubborn swelling

- Customized for your specific needs

- Allows for full, unrestricted movement

- Provides around-the-clock support

Are There Any Risks?

Lymphatic taping is safe for most people. Some might notice mild itching initially, which usually settles quickly. On rare occasions, sensitivity to the adhesive may occur. Careful removal (avoiding ripping the tape off) helps prevent irritation.

How Long Does the Tape Stay On?

Depending on your needs, the tape can stay in place for several hours to up to 10 days. Reapplication is simple if needed.

Preparing Your Skin for Application

For best results, your skin should be clean, dry, and free from oils or lotions before taping. Trimming excess body hair may also help the tape adhere more effectively.

Can You Reapply the Tape Yourself?

Absolutely! I’ll teach you how to safely and effectively apply the tape at home so you can continue to support your lymphatic health as part of your ongoing care routine.

Taping vs. Other Techniques

Lymphatic taping offers a unique advantage: continuous support. It complements other therapies like MLD by keeping the lymphatic system encouraged between sessions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When reapplying tape yourself, the biggest pitfalls are improper skin preparation and incorrect taping patterns. I provide personalized instruction to make sure you feel confident in your technique.

When Taping Might Not Be Appropriate

Lymphatic taping should be avoided if you have:

- Thrombosis

- Open wounds

- Active infections

- Phlebitis

- Edema caused by heart or kidney failure

What is Lymphatic Taping?

Originally developed in the 1970s in Korea and Japan, kinesiology taping techniques were adapted in the 1990s to specifically support the lymphatic system. The tape itself is made from breathable, stretchy cotton with a gentle, hypoallergenic adhesive. Its elasticity is designed to move naturally with your skin, providing subtle, ongoing support to encourage lymphatic drainage.

How Does Lymphatic Taping Work?

When applied correctly, the tape gently lifts the surface of the skin, creating more space underneath. This lifting effect can help lymph fluid move more efficiently, reducing congestion and swelling. It also improves microcirculation and provides a light massaging action with every movement. Application techniques vary depending on the area being treated and the goals of therapy.

Conditions That May Benefit from Lymphatic Taping

- Primary or secondary lymphedema

- Fibrosis

- Scar management

- Seromas

- Hematomas

- Post-surgical swelling

How is the Tape Applied?

During application, the tape is laid onto the skin with minimal tension. This creates a lifting and rippling effect on the skin, boosting lymphatic flow by increasing space in the underlying tissues.

Using Taping Alongside Other Therapies

Lymphatic taping can be highly effective on its own but works even better when combined with treatments like Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) and compression therapy. Taping offers extended support between hands-on sessions, helping maintain the progress we achieve together.

Interested in Trying Lymphatic Taping?

Before beginning, we’ll ensure taping is safe and appropriate for your situation. If it’s a good fit, lymphatic taping can become a valuable tool in your care plan, helping you manage swelling and support your overall well-being.

Ready to learn more or book a session? Contact me, Rita Kako, and let’s create a plan tailored just for you.