WHAT IS THIS STUFF? This is like a Band Aid - it's a strip of cotton with elastic and it has adhesive on one side. It's meant to stabilize injuries, reduce swelling, and keep you moving. I swim and surf but never used this product until swimmer's shoulder, tendonopathy, and lower back pain left me unable to remain active. Plain athletic tape has no stretch - you can't move. There are no scientific studies on this kinesio tape, but many people swear by it.WILL THIS HELP WITH MY ______ PAIN? The biggest problem is when people attempt to use this without any guidance from a professional. I didn't consult my doctor, read directions fully, applied it wrong, etc... It'll be most beneficial with medical input on proper use. Unfortunately, the instruction leaflet encourages you to DIY. If you want to know if it's the best choice for your situation and how to really use it then please ask your doctor. It has helped my lower back pain a lot - my LMT applied it during a session.HOW LONG WILL IT STAY ON? After some kick drills in the pool aggravated my tendon, I then taped my foot with standard KT brand tape with excellent results. Experienced with taping my feet (former dancer), I felt confident. The tape stayed on for about 2 days outside the pool, through showers, and was removed without issue. When attempting to tape my shoulder (no experience) with RockTape the result was ripped skin which kept me out of the water. While it was on it didn't come off during 2 hour swim sessions and showering. My shoulder felt good.KT BRAND OR ROCKTAPE? If you want something that wont stay on too long and feel like you can't live with a temporary cast of sorts, then KT is a good option. I didn't try KT in the pool and it was off in a few days on it's own. If you want something on at least 5 days and will be in the water, RockTape H2O is what you want. Even pro surfers use it. There's a difference in adhesiveness and elasticity. KT has their logo is on each strip but the strips are pre-cut. RockTape doesn't have a logo but expects you to cut your own strips and round off your own corners which is a waste of product.TIPS: Poor application resulted in painful pustules on my shoulder, so please get someone to help you put it on and take it off smoothly. Apply it wrong and it comes off faster. Kinesio tape can be found in a smaller size at Bed Bath Beyond with a 20% coupon if you want to try some without paying full price. For full size products, Amazon pricing is competitive.