RunSociety had the chance to catch Acti-Tape in action at their Singapore workshop on last Tuesday. As the official tape supplier of the 2XU Compression Run 2014, instructors demonstrated how the therapeutic tape can help provide support to joints and muscles, as well as enhancing sports performance.

What is Acti-Tape?

Acti-Tape is a highly elastic, non-latex body tape, manufactured in accordance to strict GMP & ISO and hygiene standards.

Lines of adhesives are applied in a special wave-like pattern with area between these waves that are adhesive-free. This alternating pattern allows for greater air permeability, allowing for greater comfort.

“Lifting” The Skin for Pain Relief

The principle of Acti-Tape is based on the body’s own natural healing processes. When applied, the tape may assist the body’s return to normal function. The nature of the tape material is highly elastic (as elastic as skin), and in conjunction with the wave-like adhesive pattern, Acti-Tape “lifts” the skin under the point of application fractionally when applied.

This lifting supports the alleviation of pain and facilitates lymphatic drainage, by increasing the space between the skin and muscle in order to allow “easier” body fluid flow under the application area.

This results in decreased pressure on the sensory receptors, allowing for pain relief, promotion of injury recovery and reduction of swelling.

Taping Techniques

Acti-Tape is easy to use and highly versatile. All techniques are based on a few simple principles, including whether or not to deliberately stretch the tape on application.

Basically, Acti-Tape can be left on the skin for 2-3 days. For best results, Acti-Tape should be applied to clean, dried skin.

Body warmth helps the adhesive to “set”, so it is best applied at least 10 minutes prior to activity start, and 60 minutes prior if the activity is water-based.

Here’s an example of Acti-Tape being used to help with ACL knee instability support:

Who Can Use Acti-Tape?

Everyone can use and benefit from Acti-Tape. It is now used widely by professional athletes, trainers, podiatrists and orthopaedists worldwide.

Since it is non-medicated, pregnant women, children, office works and the elderly who need muscle support will also find it useful.

Depending on the application, it may be applied to assist for various conditions, including back pain, shoulder pain, knee conditions and tight hamstrings.