Add-on effect of kinesiotape in patients with acute lateral ankle sprain: a randomized controlled trial

The effect of kinesiotaping on edema: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Treatment for edema involves multiple approaches, with Kinesiotaping having recently emerged as an option for edema reduction.

OBJECTIVE

To systematically summarize current evidence on the effects of Kinesiotaping on edema reduction on any type of edema.

METHODS

A systematic review was performed including randomized clinical trials that compared the effects of Kinesiotaping to any other intervention or no intervention on edema. Screening, assessment of methodological quality (PEDro scale) of studies, and confidence of evidence (GRADE) were analyzed by two independent reviewers. A quantitative summary is presented through meta-analyses.

RESULTS

A total of 3750 studies were identified, of which 70 were included in this review, and were organized by body region (face, upper limbs and lower limbs) and by treatment time (short and long term). It was observed that Kinesiotaping was superior to comparison groups in the short-term for face edema (Standardized mean difference [SMD] -1.07; 95%CI -1.48 to -0.65) and lower limbs (SMD -0.55; 95%CI -1.06 to -0.05). Also, Kinesiotaping was superior to comparison group in the long-term for lower limbs (SMD -0.72; 95%CI -1.25 to -0.18). Kinesiotaping was not superior to the comparison groups for upper limbs in both the short (SMD -0.05; 95%CI -0.89 to 0.80) and long-term (SMD -0.04; 95%CI -0.31 to 0.24) protocols.

CONCLUSION

Kinesiotaping seems to be an effective intervention to reduce acute edema around the face and potentially in the lower limbs in both short and long-term protocols, although the quality of evidence is very low. However, these positive results were not observed for the upper limbs.

Effectiveness of photobiomodulation therapy in the treatment of patients with an ankle sprain: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) is widely used in the treatment of patients with musculoskeletal and sports disorders with a lack of significance in patients with sprain ankle.

PURPOSE

This review investigated the effect of PBMT on pain, oedema, and function in patients with an ankle sprain.

METHODS

A systematic search of the databases (MEDLINE, PubMed, EBSCO, Web of Science, Wiley Online Library, Science Direct, Physiotherapy Evidence (PEDro), and the Cochrane Databases) was performed from inception to the end of 2023 to identify any clinical study investigating the effect of PBMT on ankle sprain. PBMT parameters and measured outcomes were extracted. The primary measured outcome was pain and function, and oedema were secondary measured outcomes. Methodological quality was assessed using the PEDro scale. The level of evidence was determined by the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) system. A random effect meta-analysis with forest plot was used to calculate standardized mean difference (SMD) at a 95% confidence interval and the overall effect size (ES).

RESULTS

Six studies (598 patients) were included in the review and five studies in the meta-analysis. There were two fair-quality and four good-quality studies, with a moderate level of evidence on pain, and a low level of evidence on oedema and function. The meta-analysis revealed a significant overall effect of PBMT on pain with high ES [SMD - 0.88 (-1.76, -0.00), p = 0.05], with a non-significant effect on oedema and function with a medium ES [SMD - 0.70 (-1.64, 0.24), p = 0.14] on oedema and low ES on function [SMD - 0.22 (-0.69, 0.24), p = 0.35]. Significant heterogeneity was observed in all measured outcomes with high heterogeneity (I2 > 75%) in pain and oedema and moderate heterogeneity in function.

CONCLUSION

PBMT is quite effective for patients with an ankle sprain. PBMT showed high effect size with a moderate level of evidence on pain intensity. The lack of significant effects of PBMT on function and edema with low level of evidence limit the confidence to the current results and recommend further large high-quality studies with higher PBMT intensity and fluency for standardisation of the irradiation parameters and treatment protocol.

REGISTRATION

PROSPERO registration number (CRD42021292930).

The impact of ankle kinesio taping on pain management in patients with acute ankle sprain

BACKGROUND

The objective of this study was to assess the efficacy of Kinesio Tape (KT) application as a complementary treatment for patients with acute ankle sprain (AAS) in an Emergency Department (ED) setting.

METHODS

A prospective, quasi-randomized controlled trial was conducted in a tertiary care ED. Adult patients diagnosed with isolated, stable Grade 1 and Grade 2 AAS were included. Patients were divided into two groups: the KT group, where KT was applied in addition to conventional treatment, and the control group, receiving only conventional treatment. Pain intensity, analgesic usage, and patient satisfaction were assessed.

RESULTS

While pain levels were similar between both groups at baseline and the 30th minute, the control group reported significantly lower pain levels at the 60th minute (p=0.575, p=0.437, and p=0.042, respectively). The KT group exhibited reduced analgesic drug consumption and higher patient satisfaction levels (p<0.001 and p=0.003, respectively). Logistic regression analysis revealed that the difference in pain intensity at the 60th minute lost significance, while analgesic usage and patient satisfaction remained significant (p=0.631, p=0.003, and p=0.026, respectively).

CONCLUSION

KT application, as a complementary treatment, may reduce the need for analgesics and enhance patient satisfaction in patients with AAS in the ED. Further research is needed to refine its application and confirm its effectiveness in standard AAS treatment protocols.

Integrated Rehabilitation Approach Utilizing Swiss Ball Training, Mulligan Taping, and Mobilization With Movement for Simultaneous Management of Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction and Lateral Ankle Sprain in a Badminton Athlete: A Case Study

This case report details an integrated rehabilitation plan implemented for a professional badminton player who presented with issues of sacroiliac joint (SIJ) dysfunction and a lateral ankle sprain. The integrated approach aimed to address both musculoskeletal issues, considering their potential reciprocal influences on biomechanics and functional performance. The athlete underwent a thorough initial assessment, including clinical examination, imaging, and biomechanical analysis. Treatment began with targeted interventions for acute ankle sprain management, such as rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) followed by progressive exercises to restore ankle stability and range of motion (ROM). Concurrently, a specialized program was devised to address the underlying sacroiliac joint dysfunction through manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, and core stabilization routines. Throughout the rehabilitation process, the focus remained on integrated exercises that targeted both the ankle and sacroiliac joint, promoting optimal neuromuscular coordination and joint function specific to badminton demands. Regular reassessments guided the progression of interventions, ensuring a personalized and athlete-centric approach. The positive outcome highlights the importance of a holistic rehabilitation strategy in managing complex musculoskeletal conditions in athletes, facilitating efficient recovery, and reducing the risk of recurrence. This case report highlights the effectiveness of an integrated approach in enhancing performance and preventing reinjury in badminton athletes facing multifaceted musculoskeletal challenges.

The Effect of Kinesio Taping on Balance and Dynamic Stability in College-Age Recreational Runners with Ankle Instability

(1) Background: Running is one of many sports that have increased in popularity since it can be conducted at any time or anywhere. Ankle instability is a common injury that usually occurs during running and is usually associated with abnormalities in postural stability. Recently, kinesio taping has gained increasing interest as a tool that can be used in rehabilitation, to improve stability, and to help in injury prevention. This study aimed to investigate the effect of Kinesio taping on balance and dynamic stability in recreational runners with ankle instability. (2) Methods: This randomized controlled trial recruited 90 RRs with ankle instability. The participants were randomly divided into three equal groups: a KT group (KTG) who received Kinesio taping on their ankle joints; a mixed group (MG) who received Kinesio taping and exercises; and an exercise group (EG) who received exercises only. Outcome measures (balance and dynamic stability) were assessed before and after the end of an 8-week treatment program using a Biodex balance system and a star excursion balance test, respectively. (3) Results: Within-group comparisons showed statistically significant improvements in most of the outcome values when compared to baseline. Overall stability index was statistically significantly better (with a high effect size) in the MG compared to KTG or EG (p = 0.01, Cohen's d = 1.6, and p < 0.001, Cohen's d = 1.63, respectively). A similar finding was evident in the anteroposterior stability index (p = 0.02, Cohen's d = 0.95, and p < 0.001, Cohen's d = 1.22, respectively). The mediolateral stability index of the KTG was statistically significantly better with a high effect size when compared to MG or EG (p = 0.04, Cohen's d = 0.6, and p < 0.01, Cohen's d = 0.96, respectively). The star excursion balance test values were statistically significant with high effect sizes in the posterior (p = 0.002, Cohen's d = 1.2) and lateral (p < 0.02, Cohen's d = 0.92) directions in the MG compared to KTG and EG. (4) Conclusions: Kinesiotape with exercises is superior to either kinesiotape alone or exercises alone in improving postural stability indices and dynamic stability in recreational runners with ankle instability. Recreational runners with ankle instability should be educated about practicing balance exercises and applying kinesiotape.

Current Concept Review: State of Acute Lateral Ankle Injury Classification Systems

Acute lateral ankle sprain (ALAS) is one of the most frequent musculoskeletal injuries, with a great impact on health and socioeconomic factors. There are few consensuses on this subject and multiple therapeutic options that are difficult to compare due to the lack of a universally adopted classification system. The objective of this study is to is to report the actual knowledge on how ALAS are classified and reported and not to make any therapeutic recommendation. A comprehensive literature review of the literature was carried out through a search in the MEDLINE, Cochrane Library and Google Scholar databases, with identification of articles that describe ways to classify lateral ankle sprains or with relevant content for their classification. Twenty-five different classification systems were identified. The majority of articles referring to ALAS use an unspecific classification. Most classification systems divide sprains into 3 degrees. The most used parameters are the anatomy of the injury, clinical parameters, functional loss and the presence of instability. No articles were found to verify the validity of the systems used, namely regarding their association with therapeutic proposals or prognostic predictions. Based on the available evidence, recommendations cannot be made regarding the most appropriate classification system. The considerable heterogeneity of the existing literature makes it difficult to compare studies and to optimize the treatment and follow-up of these injuries. Future research in this area is necessary to define a practical and rigorous system that can be used universally.

Efficacy of electroacupuncture in assisting postoperative healing of distal radius fractures: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Manual reduction and surgical treatment are common methods for distal radius fractures (DRFs). The existing literature suggests that postoperative combined rehabilitation treatment and medication are effective for the healing of DRFs. However, the side effects of these treatments remain to be solved. Previous studies have shown that electroacupuncture (EA) can effectively relieve wrist swelling and improve the joint function in patients with DRFs, but more evidence is needed to prove the effectiveness of EA. This trial aims to explore the efficiency and feasibility of combined EA treatment in postoperative treatment of DRFs compared with routine treatment.

METHODS

This is a parallel randomized controlled trial. A total of 222 patients diagnosed with moderate DRFs will be recruited and randomly assigned to an EA group or a routine treatment group at a ratio of 1:1. Routine treatment group will receive medication and rehabilitation. Yangxi (LI 5), Yangchi (TE 4), Yanggu (SI 5), Hegu (LI 4), and Taiyuan (LU 9) will be selected in the EA group for intervention three times a week on the basis of routine treatment. Both groups will receive 8 weeks of treatment and 4 weeks of follow-up. The primary outcome will be ulnar positive variance. The secondary outcomes will include radiographic healing rate, bone strength, hemorheological indices, serum biochemical indicators and inflammatory factors, grip strength, wrist swelling score, patient-rated wrist evaluation, disabilities of arm, shoulder and hand, and visual analogue scale. Outcomes will be evaluated at baseline, postoperative 3rd day, 2nd, 4th, 6th, 8th, and 12th weeks.

DISCUSSION

The results of this study will help establish a more optimized scheme to treat patients with DRFs. Trial registration Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR2200062857. Registered on 21 August 2022, www.chictr.org.cn/com/25/showproj.aspx?proj=175567 .

Kinesiology Therapeutic Taping Does Not Reduce Swelling Caused by an Acute Ankle Sprain: A Critically Appraised Topic

Clinical Scenario: A common rehabilitation goal after an acute lateral ankle sprain is the management of swelling. Traditionally, ice, elevation, and compression are used to manage swelling to create an optimal healing environment. It has been proposed that alternative interventions, such as kinesiology therapeutic (KT) tape, could be used to reduce swelling following acute ankle injury. Clinical Question: Is the application of KT tape an effective modality to address swelling after acute lateral ankle sprains? Summary of Key Findings: A systematic search was completed to identify articles that examined the impact of KT tape on swelling after an acute ankle sprain. A total of 206 articles were retrieved. Three articles were identified that compared KT tape with other interventions in the management of swelling due to acute ankle sprain. All 3 included studies had high critical appraisal scores using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database scale. Clinical Bottom Line: The current evidence suggests that KT tape may have comparable effects on swelling to elastic bandages when both were used in combination with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. However, when compared with a sham intervention or when used in combination with acupuncture, the use of KT tape had no effects on swelling. Together, these findings indicate that KT tape has limited to no clinical utility to reduce swelling following an acute lateral ankle sprain. Strength of Recommendation: Based on the Strength of Recommendation Taxonomy, the clinical bottom line is based on grade B evidence.

Kinesio taping does not improve ankle functional or performance in people with or without ankle injuries: Systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To investigate whether Kinesio taping technique, applied to ankles of healthy people as a preventive intervention and people with ankle injuries, is superior to sham or alternative interventions on ankle function.

DATA SOURCES

Medline, Embase, Amed, CINAHL, SPORTDiscus, Cochrane Library and Web of Science, from inception to August 2020.

REVIEW METHODS

The terms "ankle" and "kinesio taping" were used in the search strategy. Included studies were randomized controlled trials (including crossover design) investigating Kinesio taping effects on ankle functional performance compared to any alternative or control/sham technique.

RESULTS

From 5,572 studies, 84 met the eligibility criteria which evaluated 2,684 people. Fifty-eight meta-analyses from 44 studies were performed (participants in meta-analyses ranging from 27 to 179). Fifty-one meta-analyses reported ineffectiveness of Kinesio taping: moderate evidence for star excursion balance test (anterior direction), jump distance, dorsiflexion range of motion, and plantar flexion torque for healthy people (effect size = 0.08-0.13); low to very-low evidence for balance, jump performance, range of motion, proprioception, muscle capacity and EMG for healthy people; balance for older people; and balance and jump performance for people with chronic instability. Seven meta-analyses reported results favoring Kinesio taping (effect size[95% CI]): low to very-low evidence for balance (stabilometry, ranging from 0.42[0.07-0.77] to 0.65[0.29-1.02]) and ankle inversion (0.84[0.28-1.40]) for healthy people; balance for older people (COP velocity, 0.90[0.01-1.78]); and balance for people with chronic instability (errors, 0.55[0.06-1.04]).

CONCLUSIONS

Current evidence does not support or encourage the use of Kinesio taping applied to the ankle for improvements in functional performance, regardless the population.