It comes in all colors and is applied to various parts of the body. You’ll likely see many Olympic athletes sporting this elastic athletic tape that may look more like an accessory than a healing tool during this year’s games.
If you’re wondering what this colorful tape is, you’re not alone! Kinesio Taping, which was developed by Dr. Kenzo Kase, a Japanese chiropractor, involves placing tape over muscles to allow individuals to experience a reduction in pain and inflammation.
Athletes during this year’s games may sport the tape if they’re recovering from an injury or wear it as a preemptive measure over weak muscles and ligaments.
Kinesio tape isn’t the only step taken by world-class athletes to ensure their best performance—many current and past Olympic athletes opt for chiropractic care to ensure the health of their nervous system including sprinter Usain Bolt and retired basketball star Michael Jordan.