Successful use of Kinesio tape to treat an acute muscle haematoma

Abstract

A 73-year-old woman presented with recent onset significant spontaneous bruising. She also had a recent diagnosis of type 2 diabetes mellitus and was undergoing investigations for biochemical hyperthyroidism. A diagnosis of acquired haemophilia A was confirmed with laboratory testing in addition to thyrotoxic Graves’ disease. She had significant bruising of her left thigh and restricted mobility of the left leg. A significant left vastus lateralis haematoma was diagnosed by ultrasound scan. A course of FEIBA (Factor Eight Inhibitor Bypassing Activity) was commenced and physiotherapy input provided. Kinesio tape was applied to the thigh using a lymphatic drainage technique with the aim of reducing swelling and bruising. Eight days after the initial application of tape, bruising had significantly reduced and her range of movement had returned to normal. This case history demonstrates how kinesio tape may be used as a useful adjunct to standard therapy.