Extremity Therapy and KT Taping
Restore Normal Joint Function
Improve Range of Motion
Alleviate Pain
What is Extremity Therapy?
Extremity therapy, also known as extremity adjusting or extremity manipulation, is a form of manual therapy that focuses on the evaluation and treatment of joints in the limbs, such as the shoulders, elbows, wrists, hips, knees, and ankles. It is often performed at First Step Family Wellness to help patients recover from certain injuries.
The goal of extremity therapy is to restore normal joint function, improve range of motion, alleviate pain, and enhance overall movement and performance in the extremities. It involves the application of specific techniques, such as joint mobilizations, manipulations, stretches, and soft tissue techniques, to address joint misalignments, muscle imbalances, and other musculoskeletal issues.
What does Extremity Therapy help?
Extremity therapy can be beneficial for a variety of conditions affecting the limbs, including sprains, strains, overuse injuries, joint dysfunction, arthritis, and sports-related injuries. By addressing the underlying musculoskeletal imbalances, this therapy aims to promote healing, reduce pain, and optimize the function of the affected extremity.
At First Step Family Wellness, we will assess your specific condition and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs. If you’re considering extremity therapy, we would recommend you to come in and be evaluated by our trained physicians.
What is KT Taping?
Kinesio Taping Method is a therapeutic tool utilized by health care providers in all programs (pediatric, geriatric, orthopedic, neurological, oncology and others) and levels of care (acute care, inpatient rehab, outpatient, and home care). The idea of using elastic tape to mimic the therapist’s hands was first presented by Dr. Kenzo Kase in the 1970s. Since then, it has become the modality used in pain management, soft tissue injury, tissue and joint malalignment, oedema, and more.
How does KT Taping work?
Kinesio Taping theory is based on the neurophysiological mechanisms and the effect of mechanical stimuli on various systems in the body:
Central Nervous System (CNS): Kinesio Tape applied on the skin with varying degrees of stretch creates a mechanical stimulus and activates an afferent pathway to CNS
Skin: Kinesio Tape applied on the skin with a low degree of stretch changes the density and the concentration of the tissue in the dermis and epidermis. This mechanical stimulus converted into electrical impulses is called mechanotransduction and can produce cell movement. Kinesio Tape produces pressure and stretch on the skin that may be able to stimulate mechanoreceptors. This stimulus interacts with CNS and modulates pain responses.
Fascia: The application of Kinesio Tape changes the tension elements in tissues to encourage homeostasis. The tension imposed from the tape frees the fascia of any movement limitations through the movement of the skin relative to the target tissue.
Lymphatic and Circulatory System: The application of Kinesio Tape facilitates the opening of microvalves due to a dynamic pressure variation due to alteration in skin density. This decompression activates lymphatics in the dermis and improves lymphatic flow. The end result is tissue inflammation and swelling. It is also theorized that lifting the skin detaches filaments that attach the skin to endothelial cells of the lymphatic and capillary beds. This is proposed to create channels that allow lymph to drain, thus reducing swelling and allowing increased blood flow to the area.
Meet Our Extremity Therapy and KT Taping Providers


What People Are Saying
Been going to 1st Step Family Wellness for about 5 yrs now. I wouldn’t go anywhere else. They treat their clients like family. My husband and I are so grateful for the service and attention we’ve received over the years. They are the best.
Love how thorough this practice is! They are holistic and have given us so many tools for our family outside of what people think chiropractic care is- they’ve helped us with all areas of health and wellness!
We’ve been patients here for 6 years and it feels like home. I trust the staff with our health and our children feel safe in their care. The doctors are always continuing their education to give us the best care possible. I love how they empower patients to take care of their own health!
Extremity Therapy & KT Taping in St. Louis
Pricing for Extremity Therapy & KT Taping
We are committed to offering affordable care to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to prioritize their wellness. For more information on our extremity therapy services and to inquire about pricing, please contact our team.