How to apply tape: Neck and Shoulder

The neck is clearly a vital component of our anatomy due to its responsibility for connecting our brain to the rest of the body. Everything that passes through the neck is vital and relies heavily on proper function of the musculoskeletal system to protect and support these structures.

Stress is stored in these muscles and can cause headaches, shoulder pain, and other damaging compensations. Sitting at a computer all day, looking down while running, whiplash, sleeping poorly, or sudden movements and changes in direction are also common causes of neck pain.

Factors include muscle strain, ligament sprains, arthritis, spinal subluxations, pinched nerves, knots or adhesions, and countless other musculoskeletal complications. The pain is usually not only felt in the neck itself, but also into the base of the neck and the shoulders. Generally, the pain can be categorized into two conditions: muscle strain or myofascial strain.

Muscle strain can occur when there is an injury to the muscles of the neck, causing spasm of the cervical and upper back muscles. The strain may result from the physical stresses of everyday life, including poor posture, muscle tension from psychological stress, or poor sleeping habits. Typically, symptoms include pain, stiffness, and tightness in the upper back or shoulder. Myofascial pain causes tight and tender areas of muscle that are sensitive to pressure. Myofascial pain in the neck can develop after trauma or with other medical conditions such as psychological stress, depression, or insomnia.

KT Tape alleviates pain by relaxing the muscles, providing support, increasing circulation around the affected area, as well as reducing pressure on the myofascial tender spots – all to promote the body’s natural healing processes*. Generally, individuals will feel immediate support and pain relief upon taping*.

Consider complimentary measures as well. Try posture improvement, massage, chiropractic adjustments, and ice. KT Tape will relieve the pain and help assist in proper posture, but please seek care if pain becomes severe, there is a loss in movement, or symptoms get worse. Use beige KT Tape if you don’t want to have colors visible during more formal times.