Chronicling the Use of Equine Kinesiology Tape in Competition

Equine Kinesiology Tape

Kinesio tape was first used to treat humans for athletic injuries and therapeutic rehabilitation (holisitchorse.com). Its first “public debut” was during the 2012 summer Olympics (equi-tape.com), however over the course of the last few years, horse owners everywhere began applying it to their show, riding, and racing horses; this method of applying equine kinesiology tape is the new way to improve any horse’s abilities. The equine tape is a very simple concept; it can be applied by anyone, however it is best to have someone who knows where each muscle in the horse is located and has been certified by one of the tape brands— such as Equi-Tape— due to the tape being easily misplaced on the horse’s body. The tape simply adheres to their coat, and because a horse is naturally sensitive, once they feel “something” on them, they use the muscle around it more often; this allows the blood to flow, while activating and relaxing muscles. You may also use the kinesiology tape for decompressing scar tissue or supporting joints. Although equine kinesiology tape is not allowed in the show ring (due to its advantageous effect on horses), it may be used in pre-training sessions up until the show. (Brooks)

The use of equine kinesiology tape has many advantages, besides the relaxation of muscles, it has given equine massage therapist, Leslie Brooks’ clients positive results, stating “[The tape] has provided me with excellent results, because it is different from support tape which limits movement in certain areas”. First, equine kinesio tape is noninvasive and has no medications, (Equi-tape.com) therefore it is rare to have a horse have any type of adverse reactions along with being one hundred percent natural. It can be applied to any area on a horse (Brooks) that is experiencing an array of issues; this is an advantage because it is a quick fix to sore joints or inflammation, it also prevents the need to call a veterinarian to the field to check the animal out. When applied correctly, horses may keep the tape on for up to four days, but must be prepped prior to applying the tape. It is able to stay on throughout bathing, rolling and wearing blankets; (Brooks) which is a huge benefit because it does not need to be reapplied daily and everyday events, such as riding, are acceptable. The price of equine kinesiology tape varies depending on the brand and size of the roll needed. The price also depends on who will be applying the tape.

Equine kinesiology tape can be used in many different ways on a horse, and depending on the horse's issue, the tape may be applied differently. It is first applied by adhering to the horse’s hair in the affected areas (holistichorse.com), there are different “patterns” in which you can apply the tape to initiate the muscles to cure injuries or strained muscles. Data for equine kinesiology tape is limited, however for human use it is very common and the results are excellent. (NCBI.gov) In ten different studies performed by Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand, results showed improvements of every injured area of people. (page. 156)

According to certified massage therapist, Leslie Brooks, there are very few disadvantages to using the tape as long as “proper assessment and application [is used] on the horse”, not using the tape in the show ring, and the small chance of the horse having an allergic reaction to the adhesive in the tape. There are no side effects to the use of the tape, or the areas where the tape was applied. The tape should also not be applied on wounds or acute injuries. (Brooks)

In conclusion, equine kinesiology taping is an excellent way to naturally lift the skin up to allow better blood flow and activate the muscles. (Equi-Tape.com) It is a useful way to provide any horse with some relaxation and muscle or joint support. Although not allowed in show rings, it is allowed to be used prior to performing by both the rider and horse, for a fair price and great way to support muscles, and according to Brooks there have been excellent improvements and results with the horses she has performed the taping on.