​​Kinesiology tape differs from athletic tape as it stretches along its longitudinal axis  allowing it to move with the body. This gives the horse full range of motion when it's applied. It works by mechanically decompressing the skin and underlying tissues. The decompression increases blood and lymph flow to the area which decreases inflammation. This also relieves pressure from free nerve endings.  As the horse moves with the tape on , nerve receptors called mechanoreceptors are stimulated. Stimulating the mechanoreceptors  inhibits nociceptors (pain receptors) so it's in this way that the tape acts as a natural pain reliever.