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What is the McConnell Technique?

The McConnell taping technique is used to realign the patella (kneecap) with medical tape to support and decrease pain from injuries. It was initially developed in 1984 by Jenny McConnell, a physical therapist in Australia. The technique is simple and effective and can be used on our patients to engage in physical therapy in Northport NY, without pain. At Park Ave PT, our specialists use techniques, like the McConnell taping technique, to provide relief to our patients.

McConnell Taping Technique ApplicationUntitled design 2021 08 16T123939.597 300x300 What is the McConnell Technique?

One 1/2-inch wide medical tape, 2-inch wide adhesive gauze, and scissors are needed for the McConnell taping technique. On clean skin, the following steps will be administered during physical therapy in Northport NY:

  • Cut two strips of the gauze and one strip of the medical tape. The strips should be about 3 to 5 inches long.
  • While seated, extend the knee and relax the leg. Place both strips of the gauze over the kneecap.
  • Place one side of the medical tape strip on the outer edge of the kneecap. Pull the other side of the strip toward the inner knee. At the same time, push the soft tissue on the inner knee toward the kneecap.
  • Finally, adhere the end of the tape to the inner edge of the kneecap.

Advantages of the McConnell Taping Technique

Studies have shown that the McConnell taping technique effectively provides relief to kneecap injuries and improves motions. Some specific advantages of the method include the following:

  • This technique reduces pain from knee osteoarthritis, patellofemoral pain syndrome, and chronic knee pain.
  • It improves the disability of the knee in patients with knee osteoarthritis.
  • Increases quadricep functions, allowing the patellofemoral joint to take on more weight.
  • Increases knee flexion, resulting in faster walking in patients with Patellofemoral pain syndrome.
  • It helps realign the patella.

Contact Park Ave Physical Therapy

If you are interested in learning more about the McConnell taping technique or would like to apply the method to your knee during physical therapy in Northport NY, contact Park Ave PT. Our specialists are trained to administer the technique and want to alleviate your pain. Schedule an appointment with our facility today to see how we can help!