Taping to Correct Mismatch Syndrome

Some of the more exciting information we are learning about chronic pain is revolving around how we communicate with the brain. The "mismatch theory" states that those with chronic pain have a discrepancy between what the brain's image of the body part is interpreted as versus the physical body part itself. More importantly, this mismatch has been shown to perpetuate pain in this population.

A new course of treatment is showing some success by training the brain vs treating the physical body part. By reconnecting our brain maps to the affected region of the body via tactile stimuli (touch) it has been shown to improve the brains interpretation of the area and reduce overall pain.
Some of the targeted communities with this mismatch syndrome are those affected by Phantom Limb Pain, Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) and Chronic Lower Back Pain.
Some preliminary data (Moseley, Flor, Wand) indicate that using sensory discrimination stimuli to the above population can be effective in reducing pain and promotes less therapist-patient interaction.

Within our education model, Rock Tape has introduced the idea of brain training (peripheral neuroplasticity) as a theoretical construct on how kinesiology taping has an effect on pain, posture, and athletic performance.
By reconnecting the brain to the body via cutaneous (skin) stimulation, we can effectively address common mismatch syndromes and enhance human performance. In addition, the application of Rock Tape has a continuous tactile stimulating effect for 3-5 days without therapist involvement. What a great, cost effective, modality to employ in practice.

For more information go to www.rocktape.com

Dr. Capo's 2 pennies.

Reference:

BodyinMind.org

http://www.bodyinmind.org/tactile-acuity-training-and-back-pain/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+com%2FiUuh+%28Body+in+Mind%29&utm_content=FeedBurner