Finding solutions to health issues is never simple with EDS
Even if a strategy helps with one problem, it tends to cause another
Sometimes managing Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) feels like choosing the lesser of two evils. Should I do something that helps me in the long run, even if it causes issues in the short term? Currently, I’m having that debate regarding kinesiology tape for my tennis elbow. It helps with the pain, but the adhesive makes my skin break out.
I learned about the benefits of kinesiology taping about 15 years ago while in physical therapy. Back then, my shoulder was so unstable that I couldn’t do the most basic exercises properly, which prevented me from making progress. My therapist tried taping, and it provided enough stability that I could achieve a baseline of strength and continue to improve.
I never thought much more about taping until I tried it last fall for my chronic plantar fasciitis. It still amazes me that after almost two years of on-and-off pain, about six weeks of taping brought me lasting relief.
Then I developed tennis elbow this winter from doing extra farm chores in the supercold weather. I’d hoped that the pain would begin to subside with massage, since I was no longer doing the chores that irritated it, but unfortunately, it didn’t. So last week, I decided to try taping it.
When solutions create more problems
To my surprise and delight, I again felt relief soon after applying the tape. I could rotate my arm, use it for chores, and let it relax without discomfort. Yes! It was strange having the tape on my arm at first, but as I got used to the feeling, I didn’t notice it that much — until it began to itch.
When I first tried taping in physical therapy, I had reactions to the adhesive. I tend to have sensitive skin, but I hadn’t had any problems with the tape for my plantar fasciitis, so I hoped it wouldn’t be an issue. But then again, the skin on my feet is much tougher than the skin on my arm and forearm. I didn’t break out terribly — just a little pink in a few spots — but enough that I’m debating whether to try it again.
It’s frustrating to find a solution for my pain, only to realize it causes me other problems. I’ve heard there’s a hypoallergenic version of kinesiology tape, so that might be worth a try. If that doesn’t work, maybe I’ll try a brace.
With EDS, finding solutions to health issues is a never-ending battle. But I’ll keep going until I find something that works for me!
Note: Ehlers-Danlos News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Ehlers-Danlos News or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to Ehlers-Danlos.
About the Author
Skia Laurence
By experimenting with different types of kinesiology tape, I've found that some are easier on the body than others. The worst is high adhesion tape, such as Rock Tape, applied after cleaning the skin with rubbing alcohol to remove the oils. Better is KT tape. The best I've found is the Amazon generic blue tape, which seems to be very low adhesion. I also find that soaking in a bath before removing it saves my skin. Over time, I've learned how low I can wear the tape before skin breakdown starts to happen. It can help to take breaks by removing the tape before bed, or using a different kind of support on a break day. It also helps to wrap up parts prone to injury before doing risky activities even if you aren't in pain. It takes less tape hours to prevent an injury than to heal one. Thus, I always wrap a wrist that's had problems before playing ukulele. Best wishes!