Introduction to Leukotape - KNeuro-Proprioceptive Taping

Concept and clinical applications

Presented by

Monica Graham, PT, CAFCIJennifer Howey, PT, CAFCI

Leukotape K

• Neuro-proprioceptive taping is a new way of doing by using the physiological effects (instead of the mechanical effects).

• Leukotape K is a new

product.

Neuro-Proprioceptive Taping?

History2

• Kinesiotaping was first used by the Japanese Olympic team in Seoul (1988).

• Kinesiotaping was introduced in the USA in 1995 by NATA.

• In 2001, a MEDICARE code was given for kinesiotaping.

History2

Kinesiotaping?

• by facilitating contraction

• by inhibiting hypertonicity

What Does Leuko–K/ NPT Do?

Carry over effect

1. It helps to control muscular function:

2. It improves proprioception

What Does NPT Do?

3. It helps to improve local metabolism through “tissue correction”

What Does NPT Do?

LEUKOTAPE® K

Effects on Damaged Tissue18

proprioceptors

capillaries

lymphatic vessels

nociceptors

4. It helps to decrease pain by interfering with afferent nerve inputs

What Does NPT Do?

5. It provides joint support by improving normal joint surfaces position

What Does NPT Do?

ROM restriction

Taping Literature Review: Ankle

NPT Is Used by Active People

NPT Can Be Used in Water

By Lance Armstrong’s Team

By Serena Williams

Leukotape K

• Made of elastic polymer surrounded by cotton (beware of fraying)

• Water-resistant, yet allows sweat evacuation

• Heat-activated, 100% acrylic adhesive

• Waveform for better adherence to the skin

• No residual glue on the skin• Allows for multiple applications

without skin irritation

Leukotape K

• 30-40% longitudinal stretch• No horizontal stretch• Elastic properties efficient for 3 to 5 days• Same thickness and weight as skin• Patients don’t feel the tape after wearing it for 10

minutes• Latex free (hypoallergenic)

• Decide what the desired effect is

• Decide where to cover

• Verify skin (shave)

• Ask about allergies

• Position limb/muscle correctly

• Appropriate manner of application:

– Do not touch the glue

– Use minimal tension

– Cut the corners

• Give instructions for removal

• May be kept in place for 3 to 5 days

Application

• Allergies• Heart insufficiency• Kidney insufficiency• Active or recent cancer• Open wounds

Special care for diabetics or elderly:

change taping everyday

Contra-Indications

Epicondilytis #1

Support and Tissue Correction

Leukotape – K / NPT Course

• Evidence Based– Blaise Dubois, PT, SPD– Gilles Courchesne, PT, SPD

• Cost effective• Critical foundation to use tape correctly and

safely• Hands-on: Practice! Practice!• Multiple, useful applications introduced

– orthopaedic– neurological Level II and Lymphatic Specialty

Course

WPTA

Vancouver 2007

Research

Leukotape – K / NPT Course

• Background• Properties of the tape• Summarize research both Athletic, “Mechanical” taping and

Leukotape-K – Example: ankle taping vs bracing

• Effectiveness, Durability • Teach Application Principles for each technique• Clinical Applications • Evolving course

– Neurological population – Lymph – Chiropodist– Thought – evolve 2 day of Mechanical taping and NPT/

Leuko-K • Critical foundation to use tape correctly and safely

Neuro-Proprioceptive Taping #2

Where to go from here?

Book 2011 dates soon!

Questions?

1240 Bay St. Suite 509Toronto, ON

M5R 2A7

tel 416 . 925 . 0050 fax 416. 925 . 0060

www.insideoutphysio.cowww.insideoutphysio.co

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