Are you dealing with persistent swelling or lymphatic issues? Lymphatic taping may help. Lymphedema Therapist Madison Kierstead provides this service to support your lymphatic health and improve overall treatment outcomes. Let’s explore how lymphatic taping works and the potential benefits it offers.

Kinesiology taping was originally developed in the 1970s in Korea and Japan, with techniques adapted for lymphatic support since the 1990s. The tape is made of elastic cotton and has a hypoallergenic adhesive, making it breathable and safe for most skin types. It is designed to mimic the elasticity of human skin, providing support and promoting lymphatic drainage.
When applied properly, the tape gently lifts the skin, creating more space underneath. This lifting effect helps lymph fluid move more freely, reducing swelling. The tape improves local microcirculation and creates a gentle massage effect on the tissue. Different application patterns can be used to target specific areas and optimize results.
Conditions Lymphatic Taping Can Help With
- Managing swelling from primary and secondary lymphedema
- Fibrosis
- Scar treatment
- Seromas
- Hematomas
- Post-operative swelling
Learn more about Madison Kierstead’s training as a Lymphedema Therapist.
The tape is applied to the skin without stretch, which gently lifts the skin to enhance lymphatic flow. This technique creates convolutions in the skin, increasing the interstitial space and promoting fluid movement.
Combining Lymphatic Taping with Other Treatments
Lymphatic taping works well alone but is especially effective when combined with manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) and other lymphedema therapies, such as compression. This combination offers continuous support between treatment sessions.
Benefits of Lymphatic Taping
- Effective for hard-to-manage swelling areas
- Customizable treatment
- Allows full range of motion during use
- Continuous support, maintaining treatment effects
Lymphatic taping is generally safe. Some might experience mild itching right after application, which usually subsides within an hour. Rarely, some may react to the adhesive. Improper removal of the tape (i.e., tearing it off like a bandage) may cause skin irritation.
You can wear the tape for several hours or up to 10 days, depending on your specific needs and treatment plan. Tape can easily be reapplied as needed.
Preparing Your Skin for Taping
For best results, ensure your skin is clean and free from hair and oils before applying the tape.
Yes! With proper guidance, you can learn to reapply the tape at home as part of your self-care routine. Maddie will teach you the correct techniques for effective and safe application.
Comparing Lymphatic Taping to Other Techniques
Lymphatic taping is a valuable addition to other lymphatic drainage techniques. It offers 24-hour support, complementing the effects of manual lymphatic drainage and other therapies. Learn more about lymphedema from the Lymphedema Association of Ontario.
Common Mistakes
When applying the tape at home, common mistakes include not preparing the skin properly and not following the correct application patterns. Maddie provides detailed instructions to help you avoid these issues.
When to Avoid Lymphatic Taping
Lymphatic taping is not recommended if you have:
- Thrombosis
- Open wounds
- Infections
- Phlebitis
- Edema resulting from cardiac failure or advanced kidney disease
Ready to Try Lymphatic Taping?
Before starting lymphatic taping, please consult with a healthcare professional to ensure it’s right for your condition. With guidance, lymphatic taping can become a valuable part of your treatment plan, providing continuous support to help manage swelling.
If you’re interested in learning more or adding lymphatic taping to your treatment regimen, please contact Madison Kierstead (Maddie the MT) to schedule an appointment. Together, we can create a plan that helps you achieve the best possible outcomes.