Combinatorics

Personalization

Topology (electrical circuits)

Mathematics

Statistics

Epistemology

World Wide Web

Honeycomb

Philosophy

Physical therapy

Property (philosophy)

Composite material

Materials science

Computer science

Flexibility (engineering)

Orthodontics

Auxetics

Medicine

Kinesiology

Scientific Reports

Each year 65% of young athletes and 25% of physically active adults suffer from at least one musculoskeletal injury that prevents them from continuing with physical activity, negatively influencing their physical and mental well-being. The treatment of musculoskeletal injuries with the adhesive elastic kinesiology tape (KT) decreases the recovery time. Patients can thus recommence physical exercise earlier. Here, a novel KT based on auxetic structures is proposed to simplify the application procedure and allow personalization. This novel KT exploits the form-fitting property of auxetics as well as their ability to simultaneously expand in two perpendicular directions when stretched. The auxetic contribution is tuned by optimizing the structure design using analytical equations and experimental measurements. A reentrant honeycomb topology is selected to demonstrate the validity of the proposed approach. Prototypes of auxetic KT to treat general elbow pains and muscle tenseness in the forearm are developed.

Auxetic structures used in kinesiology tapes can improve form-fitting and personalization