Taping for Facial Oedema in Dogs

Swelling in the face – for example after dental surgery, a wound, or an insect bite – can be uncomfortable and slow to resolve on its own. The Lymphatic cut is a kinesiology tape technique designed to help direct excess fluid away from the swollen area and towards the nearest lymph node, supporting the body’s own drainage.

Popular products to tape for facial swelling

Step-by-step application

1. Identify the swollen area and the nearest lymph node. In the head region, this is typically the parotid or submandibular lymph node, depending on where the swelling is.
2. Cut a Lymphatic-shape strip. Leave one end uncut as the anchor, and cut the rest into several thin “fingers” to increase the surface area covered.
3. Apply the anchor first, placing the uncut end over or just before the nearest lymph node, with no stretch.
4. Fan the individual strips out over the swollen area, applying each with very light stretch (paper-off), working from the anchor towards the swelling.
   

Important precautions

• Have the underlying cause of the swelling checked by a veterinarian first, particularly after a bite, sting or unexplained facial swelling.
• Do not use the Star technique for facial swelling – crossing strips draw fluid towards the centre rather than away from it. The Lymphatic cut is designed for the opposite effect.
• Take extra care around the eyes, mouth and nose; avoid restricting the airway or vision.
• Check the skin is clean, dry and free of irritation before applying tape.

More information:

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Please note that applications provided on our website are not clinically proven. All mentioned applications are based on extensive evaluation and case studies with licensed veterinarians and/or canine physiotherapists. Always have the underlying cause of lameness diagnosed by a veterinarian before applying tape.

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