KT Tape: Rotator Cuff

The rotator cuff is the group of muscles and their tendons that act to stabilize the shoulder. These muscles are relatively small, yet are extremely important in all shoulder movements. They start at the shoulder blade and connect to the upper arm in a fashion that forms a "cuff" to provide the needed stability and mechanics of the shoulder. To further explain the vital nature of these muscles, understand that the shoulder joint is much like a golf ball sitting on a tee. This design is necessary for the wide range of motion needed from the arm, but inherently creates a relatively unstable joint. The rotator cuff muscles are the muscles responsible for countering this unstable state. Though often thought to be an injury related specifically to athletic activity, incidence of rotator cuff injury is just as high in non-athletic populations.
Rotator cuff injuries generally involve many factors. Incidences of injury increases with age and degeneration of the tendons, but younger individuals with this condition have likely overused the shoulder joint or have developed muscle imbalances or poor biomechanics. Causes include muscle tears, overuse, hyperextension or hyperflexion of the shoulder, poor throwing form, among others. The tendons at the ends of the rotator cuff muscles can become torn or inflamed and lead to pain or restricted arm movement. Torn rotator cuffs can also occur following acute trauma to the shoulder, or more commonly through the overuse of the tendons. Athletes or individuals that frequently make repeated throwing motions, swinging motions, or explosive pushing or pulling motions are especially at high risk. Swimming, racquet sports, and throwing sports are all good examples of activities with high incidents of rotator cuff problems.
Rotator cuff pain presents as pain among the muscles in the shoulder that are responsible for rotation and lifting. Pain is generally felt at the front and outside of the shoulder or in the shoulder itself. Symptoms include pain, weakness, raised shoulders, and decreased range of motion. The pain is made worse with activities requiring the arm to operate overhead or out in front of the body. Clicking, catching, or snapping are rare symptoms in rotator cuff injuries and may be indicative of other problems such as a torn labrum or fracture.
Early diagnosis and action is essential to prevent irreparable damage. KT Tape can be used during the healing process to create stability, relieve pressure, increase circulation, and relax the overworked or strained muscle. Icing after activity and rest are essential and should be combined with NSAIDs to combat inflammation and pain. After the initial healing process has completed, a strengthening rehab program should be implemented.
For additional resources, please visit the KT Tape website at www.kttape.com.

[@kelseyhartmann4046]

I wish they would show how to apply this by yourself. That would be really helpful

[@lirastolons4951]

Yeah I was thinking that too I won’t have anyone to help me do this at the gym

[@atutor1]

You want them to tell you how to do something that is physically impossible?

[@j_crump6300]

@@atutor1 Yes. Yes I do.

[@parissalazar6134]

@@atutor1 actually I did it by myself so it’s not impossible

[@mnvro7989]

It’s possible to do just tricky.

[@randyblythe9504]

Following these guides for my rotator cuff. I did it for full knee support and it works like magic. I’ve been putting off both knee replacements for about 3 years now with injections every 90-100 days. Injections only work for about 30 days now so I’m supplementing with KT. One more set of injections and then knee replacements Nov-Dec 2023. Thank you so much because this is a life saver!

[@stephenm.harrissr.6617]

I hope they work out. I'm so glad I did mine.

[@KTTapevideos]

Each strip is for a different function. The 25% stretch is to function as a second layer of muscle tissue over the injury which aids in the support of the injury. The 80% stretch works to lift the skin which helps reduce pain.

[@ponix1420]

KT Tape I can vouch for the pain relief, and some extra movement as well, you can see my posts of my rotator cuff injuries above, in all 2&half full tendon tears. Doctors are surprised my arm isn’t frozen 80% of the time, I can still move it and work with limited duty and lifting of no more than 15 pounds until my surgery.

[@amineaiffa]

Love KT tape for this application. Absolutely hate that no one I know understands how to put it on me, or that I actually need another person lol.

[@maricelaaguilera5451]

I'm sure you figured this out already, have u shown the video to who you ask for help?

[@Simon-pp5vd]

@@maricelaaguilera5451 hope he really took 6 years until he saw your comment to figure out

[@michaelmcswain8208]

I am very impressed with this video. It makes me think a little deeper in regards to having my shoulder go through a 2nd surgery to open up this area. Two thumbs up!!

[@jamesmichael6780]

Thank you, very much, for sharing this. Wishing you and yours health and wealth from Melbourne.

[@iLuxe1]

For you non believers. This WORKS! I USE IT ON MY TENDONITIS AND MY HUSBAND ON HIS KNEE. It works!! My trainer showed me how to use it and my chiropractor loves it too. Don't knock it before you try it. My massage therapist also is a huge advocate. It lifts the muscles an derives pain.

[@SluggerJT44]

It helps relieve tension in muscles, provides more space so that muscles do not get irritated if they might already be swollen as well as supports. it also helps with drainage

[@rbfitness8752]

I would like it if KT Tape would put images of the anatomical body showing which muscles/areas it's assisting. Love learning this kind of stuff!

[@chrissummer3785]

I’ve been coming to your channel for a while now. Your videos really helped me when I really needed it.

[@ponix1420]

As someone waiting for a rotator cuff surgery date, that has a full tear of the supraspinatus tendon, a full SLAP tear of the labrum and a partial tear of the prominent bursal this has been extremely helpful until my surgery

[@MrDanSpank]

How did you get this injury out of interest?

[@noahmartinez5078]

25 here. When I was 21 I was last in line in a 4 car rear end collision. Dislocated my shoulder. Five days ago I dislocated my shoulder again and tore my rotator cuff. KT tape really does help. If your pain level is high like mine, make sure to use a sling and rest that arm.

[@KTTapevideos]

Thanks so much for reaching out! It is refreshing to receive comments like this and am happy you wrote to us. It's so nice to know that our efforts in supporting and providing relief to athletes and those with daily aches and pains are being received well.

[@steburkhalter]

my daughter has done competition cheerleading for years and has experienced multiple injuries. her tumbling coach told her about this tape last year and we used it on her to finish out state. it was amazing. I too thought how could tape help but my daughter made it through state without coming off the mat crying and we still use today. it is not intended to heal the injury. I would recommend to any athlete who is just trying to make it through a season without being taken out and consult a doctor.

[@zenynicolas2917]

I have rotator cuff too and thx to the tape it help me with my performance

[@HopeEducationalServices]

Thank you for the help, doctor.

[@taralakes8118]

Nathan Hope uuhu9

[@taralakes8118]

Nathan Hope gyhy it I'm I'll

[@SluggerJT44]

On skin, the Kinesio Tape pulls the upper layers of skin, creating more space between the dermis and the muscle. The space created is believed to relieve pressure on the lymph channels in the area between the muscle and the dermis, creating more space for lymph flow and thus better lymph drainage through an affected area.

[@mr.tuckers2848]

The tape totally makes sense. I have rotator cuff pain when my arm shifts forward in place. These dumb neoprene shoulder supports don’t do crap and it still moves freely. I will buy a pack of these pronto.

[@nayat2151]

*Also recommend the ex's in **_Treat Your Own Rotator Cuff_** at Amazon - get good muscular support too*

[@pupute]

Very useful thanks!

[@KTTapevideos]

Yes. You might also combine it with the general shoulder application for more support.

[@emilsmith751]

This rather for the facilitation and treatment of the infraspinatus than the supraspinatus, right?

[@neelseeks]

Great video! I bought me some Kinesio tape for my rotator cuff tear (Note that my tear is less than 50% according to my physio). I am actually surprised how it reduced my pain and I am able to do few good workouts. However, the only side effect this tape has is it gets so damn itchy from time to time that you wanna rip your skin apart. Other than that great tape and great method to apply. Again, thank you so much for the video. Cheers from New Zealand!

[@brandonhockey17]

Would this method of taping help protect/support my rotator cuff from further injury for when I'm weightlifting (specifically bench press and shoulder press) and also for hockey when I shoot? Thanks

[@K1JeromeLeBanner]

thanks for very very very useful lesson

[@bestshouldersurgeon]

+Blake Joo it looks like a good product

[@UFCFrance]

Is it possible to use this rotator cuff technique coupled with the general shoulder pain application of KT Tape? Or should each be used separately?

[@SluggerJT44]

This space also houses various nerve receptors that send specific information to the brain. When the space between the epidermis and the muscle is compressed, such as during an injury, these nerve receptors are compressed and send information to the brain regarding continuous touch, light touch, cold, pain, pressure, and heat. This information causes the brain to send out certain signals to the body on how to react to particular stimuli.

[@mikeross5627]

Tore my rotator cuff about 2 months ago.. I’m 26 so I expected it to just heal on its own if I take it easy on it in the gym but that’s not the case.. bought this tape tonight, the pro version. Hoping it helps!

[@DonavanMcdabb]

Mike Ross did it help ?

[@fintutorials56]

@Hannah Abisheganaden i guess he ded

[@wheretheheckarethealbans]

This was a great instructional video, and I appreciate it. However... It might be a good idea to tell everyone the, "Before you apply the tape" part, BEFORE YOU APPLY THE TAPE! LOL! That would have been a great thing to know before following your instructions right away. I had pain relief cream on my arm and had to waist the tape I had already put on to wash my arm off and redo it. Other than that, the video was a huge help. 😉♥️☮️

[@MartinOcando]

Hmm, how can you know the procedure will help you if you don't watch the whole video first?

[@wheretheheckarethealbans]

@@MartinOcando I guess it's human nature to just, "jump right in", when you're trying to get rid of pain as quickly as possible. As I said, it was a GREAT instructional video, they should just film it in the proper steps. A). Be sure the area is completely clean and dry. B). Apply the first piece of tape... Etc, etc.. Secondly, the video is about how to apply the tape for a torn rotator cuff. I have a torn rotator cuff, I was pretty sure the video was about the process about how to do this based on the title, without having to watch the entire video first. My only complaint was to film the videos in the complete and proper sequence of events. Besides that, it was a HUGE help and actually is working for me.

[@MartinOcando]

@@wheretheheckarethealbans Yup is working for me too. I think they shot that part afterward and forgot to move it to the beginning of the video in editing.

[@kathleengaudiano3634]

How should I apply the tape to the front muscle on my upper arm? I am a golfer and that muscle gives me trouble when I swing.

[@milindslimshady8852]

Thank you Sir

[@nazeerahmed7627]

hi, does kt tape is good to apply over grade2 muscle tear in acute stage, if so then what is the procedure to apply? it will be great helpful to me to know ur answer, thanxs

[@Dafecat1]

Hi there, I kayak and lately I've noticed that my left shoulder gets a small amount of pain around the rotator cuff whenever I push the intensity. Would this be the recommended application for providing support to the RC without affecting the range of movement I require?

[@AshleyMacMullin8]

If i want to combine this with the shoulder stability app, which one do i apply first? Do you have any advise when doing this?

[@amandavogel7649]

I have rotator cuff tendinitis, and was looking into this taping. is this the best way to tape it? I saw some other videos that used a y-strip instead.

[@KTTapevideos]

It's a good chance that it is. But it isn't always that. If it hurts in the area that is shown in this video, I would use this application.

[@Captainchopstick]

Hello :) Very interesting video! I've seen different variations of kinesio taping applications for the rotator cuff and I wanted to know what you were trying to achieve with each strip that you put down. Like, what was the purpose of going 25% stretch with the horizontally applied strip then 80% with the vertically applied strips? Please let me know! Thanks!

[@KTTapevideos]

Yes, you can use it as a preventative measure to avoid re-injury.

[@TheMozbeeboi]

Thank you for the lesson & tips.

[@andymartinez6911]

I have a compound fracture on the ball of the humerus where it joins the shoulder blade how should I apply the tape

[@joewest3718]

Thank you, you are a godsend!

[@annharden3349]

Would this work for MDI (multi directional instability) in shoulders?

[@JukerEXE]

whats the difference between this one and the old method? I was using the old method so I would like to know what's different

[@alswn23]

Would pain in the shoulder from softball most likely be rotator cuff?

[@brandonhockey17]

Hi Lumoslnc, Would this help me even though my shoulder is almost 100% healed? I injured my shoulder from weightlifting and it got worse from playing hockey. It took 6 months to heal. However sometimes I feel pain from throwing things over hand and when I stretch my right arm behind my head . Would this help me?

[@learo05]

Is KT Tape waterproof? Curious to see if it will survive time in the pool, and/or sauna and hot tub. Thanks!

[@xXTheOnlyDompsXx]

so this is pain on the back of the shoulder? bc i have pain on the front of my shoulder during my shoulder presses

[@gsimpson2g]

I use it for my Rotator Cuff. It feels just like an Ace Bandage, only it can go in places ace bandages cant, and allows for more movement than an ace bandage does. I also don't have to remove it to shower.

[@realazn10is]

I just tweaked my shoulder today olympic lifting. I figured I might as well put kt tape on overnight before I get a verdict on what exactly I did to it. Figured it was my deltoid or rotator cuff, felt the shoulder click into and out of the socket, but no dislocation. I found the easiest way to do this application was to apply the larger blue piece starting from the back and then coming over to the front of the shoulder, basically what you did except backwards. Seems to be the same.

[@miazopia9177]

Would this be good for people in color guard cuz I have major neck and shoulder pain

[@KTTapevideos]

This should not limit anything. Kerri Walsh used our tape to help in her recovery from rotator cuff surgery in the Olympics so you should be fine. Let us know how it goes!

[@alcoholic_taurus4172]

Does this work on a shoulder after rotator cuff surgery? I work in senior care and my client had surgery but depends on that arms since she is paralyzed on the other side.

[@pony2202]

Dose this work with pain that is below the shoulder blade?

[@55utesfan55]

Will this work if you are a baseball pitcher, if your arm hurts in the back of the shoulder?

[@grobin3745]

This did nothing for specific movements in my workout, such as overhead shoulder press and butterfly chest workout .. it does provide some support, but not nearly enough.. is there a better taping method specifically for those exercises?

[@KTTapevideos]

Yes. This should help with all range of motion and pain while supporting.

[@blitzhappy323]

Im a baseball pitcher. and I get pain on my shoulder by the bony prominance when i throw. what taping technique is best for my pain?

[@ciawarhater]

ok but how to do it by myself ?

[@FTL92]

Hello, I'm Face - Off specialist for my Lacrosse Team, so as far as I play a to with my body strength I'm mostly get shoulder on shoulder with my opponents (playing in Germany). Last week I had pain while working out on Military Press. My coach said it might be rotator cuffs. So my question aims at if I can work out and practice Lacrosse being taped. I'm looking forward for your answer. Kind regards.

[@KTTapevideos]

We understand that the current research is sparse & poor quality. We are working with our medical advisory board to see what we can do change that. In the meantime we can only recommend that people use it and feel the results. Thanks for the comment.

[@atutor1]

Are you commenting, thinking you are replying to peoples' comments? lol

[@carloslacerda3574]

Hello friend , when you stretch the KT , which direction is pulling the muscle ?? exemplo blue tape . KT letters is inicial base . In my mind the muscle is always stretch in the direction of Inicial base ! please , thnk you for your time . i think thats is the most important POINT , .

[@josephselkow2845]

Thumbs up. Thanks a lot.

[@KTTapevideos]

This is awesome! We are glad to know that our efforts in supporting and providing relief to athletes and those with daily aches and pains is being received well.

[@MrSamFilms]

How do you do this on your own? or do you always need someone else to help?

[@solodadevil]

can I put this tape during my badminton game...?????

[@KTTapevideos]

That's up to you. It will help give you support and help you heal faster.

[@ImAdapt73]

Do you mean? Where can you find KT tape?

[@herman619chin]

I have been diagnosed with "frozen shoulder" and I have a slight tear in my rotator cuff. Will this help the pain I am experiencing?

[@SoDelish80]

Good lord I need this I've had this injury for over two weeks, I usually deal with pain pretty well but this morning was the end all

[@ruthfurlow5468]

I’d like some kind of diagram of underlying bones and tissue, to know exactly where this needs to go without making a mistake and issues worse?

[@physiomend2014]

i wish to give an order for kinesio tape ....can u please suggest me hw to approach for it.....can u please tell me d product sizes & cost

[@user-gc8xf7lk9j]

Hi, what kind of KT tape are you using on the video? I don't see it on the website. Thanks

[@KTTapevideos]

I would start with our general shoulder application. There is a video for that one as well.

[@carsonfarist8590]

He changed and saved me I can’t thank him enough

[@kjgardnerjr6614]

Will these help QUARTERBACKS?

[@clayman478]

Would it be beneficial for a young girl to wear this when she pitches fastpitch for shoulder pain or is this only after?

[@snowwhite4913]

During. I play volleyball and it’s helps to have it on during your game/action

[@ghanwatysamaroo4296]

Hi, is it safe to shower with it on? how long should it be left on? l want to try this.

[@danielsolano965]

This work good in my shoulder

[@KTTapevideos]

Gus, There is plenty of research showing the effectiveness of the tape. Also I would recommend going on FB or Twitter and asking people what they think. You'll get tons of testimonials. In short, the tape lifts the skin which stimulates blood flow which helps you heal. It also provides support and stability which will help decrease pain.

[@eliteosteo9271]

Hi, great videos but hard to follow anatomically. It would be really helpful if you could give accurate anatomical locations for the application sites. I assume the first point of application was anterior to the distal end of the clavicle? Please let me know if thats right. Also where did you fix the back end of the tape, spine of scapula? Thanks

[@kimlmiles1]

Go back and use your eyes man good grief.

[@ikaika-fg5zd]

7 years later I still wonder if you got it

[@thehandseesall]

Does this tape actually do anything worth while? I've seen loads of tennis pros using something similar but, I can't seem to look at it in any way other than snake oil...I just don't get it!

[@ilovemusic2008808]

I dislocated my shoulder.. should I use this tape?

[@fudgygeek]

can this method be used for labral tear?

[@craftykids3535]

How do you know what kind of tendonitis you have? My shoulder cracks, pops, and i

[@KTTapevideos]

In order to get the correct diagnosis you should probably visit a medical professional. You can also visit our website and go to our "ask an expert" forum for some expert advice.

[@ejmac11]

Are you using two different sized tapes? Curious as to what I'd need to purchase.

[@KTTapevideos]

Yes, you can combine the two.

[@andreamarshall7155]

Does the color of tape have anything to do with product strength

[@KTTapevideos]

Hi Andrea - no, the color is simply for color. There are two different material strengths that we use. Our Original Cotton tape uses cotton fibers that keep their elasticity for about 3-4 days. Our PRO Synthetic tape uses a strong synthetic fiber that keeps its elasticity for 4-7 days. We also have a PRO Synthetic Extreme with an extremely strong adhesive for the most moist, hot, and intense conditions. And we have a Cotton Gentle tape for those that prefer a more gentle-adhesive for easier removal. Pretty wide range depending on what you need. But for product strength keep those two variables in mind - strength of the fiber material and strength of the adhesive - to pick the product that's right for you. Here they are in our store: www.kttape.com/kt-tape-products

[@Jindotales]

It absolutely does all of these things. I've used it for recovery from injury and for general muscle recovery---it speeds up healing time and relieves pain and swelling. I don't even take ibuprofen anymore, I just use the tape!

[@johnandrew889]

How long can leave it on?

[@KTTapevideos]

I would start with this application. Another option is to visit our "ask an expert" forum on our website and explain your pain and one of our pros can send you a customized application.

[@thomascussen5269]

KT Tape for pain in repaired clavicle with metal plate & screws

[@ImAdapt73]

you dislocate it a lot? wow. Mine was dislocated at work 3 years ago. got a torn Labrum some other Rotator Cuff damage Medial Epicondylitis. Developed frozen shoulder before workers comp got me approved. out of commission the whole time. had one shoulder release surgery. need 2 more on the shoulder and one on the elbow. far from done. So you are very lucky. I would stop doing what ever it is that keeps dislocating your shoulder before you run out of luck and get screwed like me.

[@lokeshkumar-qp7lu]

Is there any problem when the body got sweet more.

[@craftykids3535]

Hurt só bad after i swim?

[@KTTapevideos]

It sounds like you may need a customized application. Visit our website and go to our "ask an expert" forum for some professional advice.

[@KTTapevideos]

It is a tough one to do yourself. We try to encourage every store that carries our tape to educate their employees on the product. Sorry about the misunderstanding. However, if you can get someone to help you put it on, we're confident you'll be pleased with the results.

[@surendradivraya3702]

Auaja

[@surendradivraya3702]

OPOPOpPoo

[@lisainche7929]

How could you take the shoulder for arthritis pain!? Would be super helpful!

[@dmguk9931]

how long does the kt stay on....oh yeh...if you have any hair on arm or back shave it....it aint no fun taking that tape off

[@john-carlosynostroza]

Why does your tape only last for about a day or so compared to r?RockTape which lasts me 3 or 4 days even with showers? I applied them both exactly the same so not sure why the great discrepancy. I used to purchase your tape and still would but I don't understand what's going on with the short life of adhesion compared to rock tape...??

[@matthewvaladez8209]

They make it look easy lol. I hate when I feel like I put it on correctly and I find it peeling off. And only after 1 day the edges wanna peel off after a shower when most people say they use it for 2-3 3-6 days..

[@thiamsengtan736]

Hi, can i use this method for a small tear of my right glenoid labrum or should i use the general shoulder pain taping method? Thanks.

[@KTTapevideos]

Yes. Let us know how it goes!

[@KTTapevideos]

Yeah this is a tough one to do alone. If you figure out a good way to do it let us know!

[@pony2202]

I have done it myself. I sit on the sink so I can see in the mirror. I apply it a little diffrent. It's hard to explain how, but it took a lot of trial and error. It dosen't come out as great and fancy looking as this but it works.

[@kingumm41]

Flexibility is what helped me a ton