Kinesiology: HSA Eligibility

What is kinesiology?

Kinesiology has become an increasingly popular field of complementary health or natural medicine that refers to the study of the body's mechanics of biomechanical, physiological and psychological mechanisms of movement. One of the fundamental premises of kinesiology is that the body has innate healing energy and is always in the state of actively healing, but in certain cases, the mechanics of body positioning and adjustments is believed to promote the healing process (School of Natural Health Sciences).

A "kinesiologist" is not currently a licensed professional designation in the U.S., but those with training in this area typically have specialties in the fields of physical rehabilitation, human motor performance, ergonomics. Ultimately, the vast majority of individuals who consider themselves as kinesiologists are those who are specialists in "exercise physiology," or the study of physiological responses to physical exercise and the rehabilitative efforts to help the body achieve peak performance.

How is kinesiology practiced?

Kinesiologists work in a number of capacities as health professionals, including in private practices, physical rehabilitation, functional assessment specialists, exercise therapists and much more. Because of the multi-faceted nature of kinesiology, these experts work in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities and more. The vast majority of individuals who visit a kinesiologist will do so as a result of an injury or for advise in improving an exercise regimen, but in recent years, kinesiology products have emerged as an extension of this discipline.

One of the most common kinesiology products is kinesiology tape, which is designed to aid the healing process of sore muscles and joints by providing support and stability to these areas without restricting the patient's range of motion. Through the use of soft tissue manipulation, experts can utilize kinesiology tape in specific taping techniques to allow muscles and ligaments to be stabilized to prevent further damage or re-injury. This strategy has become increasingly popular in the treatment of pain, rehabilitation, stabilization before athletic competition and much more (Physio Works).

If consumer-directed healthcare account holders require the services of a kinesiologist or kinesiology products for the treatment of an injury or other legitimate medical condition, it would be eligible for reimbursement through an FSA, HSA or HRA. In some cases, a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN), so account holders should check with their benefits administrators beforehand to ensure that they will be fully reimbursed for their purchases.