Efficacy of kinesio tape application on pain and muscle strength in patients with myofascial pain syndrome: a placebo-controlled trial

Effects of Different Taping Techniques in Individuals with Myofascial Pain Syndrome with a Trigger Point in the Trapezius Muscle: A Sham-controlled Randomized Study

Objective

This study aimed to compare the effects of three different kinesio taping (KT) techniques in individuals with myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) who have a trigger point in the trapezius muscle.

Methods

The individuals included in our study were randomly divided into four groups: Group 1: Functional correlation technique, group 2: Fascia correlation technique, group 3: Star taping technique (STT), and group 4: Sham group. The visual analog scale was used to assess pain, cervical joint range of motion (ROM) with a universal goniometer, grip strength with a hand dynamometer, number of active trigger points by palpation, pressure-pain threshold with an algometer, quality of life with the Nottingham Health Profile and functional level with the Neck Disability index were evaluated before and after treatment.

Results

There was no difference between the groups in terms of demographic data and pre-treatment outcome measures (p>0.05). There was a significant difference in the pain score between the groups after treatment (p<0.05). A statistically significant difference was found in the cervical flexion ROM of all groups after treatment (p<0.05). In pairwise comparisons, these differences were found due to group 3 (p<0.05).

Conclusions

The three KT techniques are effective in reducing pain, increasing ROM, reducing the number of active trigger points, and increasing grip strength. Among these techniques, STT was found to be more effective in reducing pain and increasing cervical flexion ROM. KT is a method that can be used in the clinic for patients with MPS.

Comparative effectiveness of noninvasive therapeutic interventions for myofascial pain syndrome: a network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) has an impact on physical health and quality of life for patients, with various noninvasive methods used for relieving myofascial pain. The authors aimed to compare the effectiveness of different noninvasive therapeutic interventions for MPS.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The authors searched PubMed, Embase, CINAHL Complete, Web of Science, Cochrane, and Scopus to identify randomized controlled trials describing the effects of any noninvasive treatments in patients with MPS. The primary outcome was pain intensity, while pressure pain threshold and pain-related disability were secondary outcomes.

RESULTS

The analysis included 40 studies. Manual therapy [mean difference (MD) of pain: -1.60, 95% CI: -2.17 to -1.03; MD of pressure pain threshold: 0.52, 95% CI: 0.19 to 0.86; MD of pain-related disability: -5.34, 95% CI: -8.09 to -2.58], laser therapy (MD of pain: -1.15, 95% CI: -1.83 to -0.46; MD of pressure pain threshold: 1.00, 95% CI: 0.46 to 1.54; MD of pain-related disability: -4.58, 95% CI: -7.80 to -1.36), extracorporeal shock wave therapy (MD of pain: -1.61, 95% CI: -2.43 to -0.78; MD of pressure pain threshold: 0.84, 95% CI: 0.33 to 1.35; MD of pain-related disability: -5.78, 95% CI: -9.45 to -2.12), and ultrasound therapy (MD of pain: -1.54, 95% CI: -2.24 to -0.84; MD of pressure pain threshold: 0.77, 95% CI: 0.31 to 1.22) were more effective than no treatment.

CONCLUSION

Our findings support that manual therapy, laser therapy, and extracorporeal shock wave therapy could effectively reduce pain intensity, pressure pain threshold, and pain-related disability with statistical significance when compared with placebo. This finding may provide clinicians with appropriate therapeutic modalities for patients with MPS among different scenarios.

Effect of dynamic taping on neck pain, disability, and quality of life in patients with chronic non-specific neck pain: a randomized sham-control trial

Background

In 2020, 203 million people experienced neck pain, with a higher prevalence in women. By 2050, it is predicted that neck pain will affect 269 million people, representing a 32.5% increase. Physical rehabilitation is often employed for the treatment of chronic non-specific neck pain (CNSNP) and the associated functional loss. Taping is frequently used as an adjunct treatment alongside primary physical rehabilitation. Unlike kinesio tape (KT), the therapeutic benefits of dynamic tape (DT) have not been thoroughly explored and documented in non-athletic conditions. Therefore, the aim of this trial was to determine the effects of DT on pain, disability, and overall well-being in individuals experiencing CNSNP.

Methods

A prospective parallel-group active controlled trial was conducted at a single center, involving 136 patients with CNSNP, randomly allocated in a 1:1 ratio. The sham taping group (STC) received standard physiotherapy care (n = 67) alongside DT without tension, while the dynamic taping group (DTC) (n = 69) underwent standard cervical offloading technique with appropriate tension in addition to standard physiotherapy care. Demographic information and three patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), namely the Neck Disability Index (NDI), Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), and the World Health Organization-Five Well-Being Index (WHO-5), were collected for each participant at three time points (baseline, four weeks post-taping, and four weeks follow-up).

Results

At baseline, no significant differences were observed between the STC and DTC for any outcome measure. Notably, all three PROMs exhibited a significant improvement from baseline to four weeks post-intervention, with moderate to small effect sizes (NDI ηp2 = 0.21, VAS ηp2 = 0.23, and WHO-55 ηp2 = 0.05). The WHO-5 scores for both groups demonstrated improvement from baseline through follow-up (p < 0.001). The NDI and VAS scores ameliorated from baseline to the four weeks post-taping period, with marginal improvements observed during the four weeks follow-up.

Conclusion

The incorporation of DT as an adjunct to standard physiotherapy care yielded enhancements in pain levels, functional disability, and well-being among patients with CNSNP when compared to the sham group. However, the sustainability of these improvements beyond the taping period lacks statistical significance and warrants further validation.

Comparison of 4 weeks of cupping and Kinesio-taping on clinical and ultrasound outcomes of carpal tunnel syndrome during pregnancy

OBJECTIVE

To explore effect of cupping and Kinesio-taping techniques on clinical and ultrasound outcomes of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) during pregnancy.

METHODS

Thirty pregnant women suffering from CTS were randomly assigned into Kinesio-taping (n = 15) and cupping (n = 15) groups. In Kinesio-taping group, individuals underwent Kinesio-taping for three days, one day with no treatment, and three days with Kinesio-taping, continuing this procedure for four weeks. In cupping group, cupping was moved for 5 min with pressure of 50 mm-Hg on the carpal tunnel area. This procedure continued longitudinally in forearm area for 2 min. The therapeutic intervention of cupping group continued with eight sessions, two days a week for 4 weeks. Ultrasound outcomes including median nerve cross-sectional area through ultrasonography, and clinical outcomes including pain through visual analog scale and severity of symptoms and functional status through Boston questionnaire were measured in both groups before and after therapeutic program.

RESULTS

In both groups, a significant reduction was observed in all variables after treatment compared to pre-treatment (P < 0.001). In inter-group comparison, a significant improvement was found in outcomes of Boston questionnaire and ultrasound results about median nerve cross-sectional area at pisiform and hook of hamate in cupping group compared to Kinesio-taping at end of four weeks (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Both cupping and Kinesio-taping improved clinical and ultrasound outcomes of CTS. However, efficacy of cupping compared to Kinesio-taping was better in improvement of median nerve cross-sectional area at hamate hook and pisiform levels, symptoms severity scale, and functional status scale, which makes the results clinically more applicable.

Short-term effects of Kinesio taping combined with cervical muscles multi-angle isometric training in patients with cervical spondylosis

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to investigate the efficacy of Kinesio taping (KT) combined with multi-angle isometric resistance training for cervical spondylosis.

METHODS

Sixty-one patients were divided into two groups by random number table method. Both groups were given multi-angle isometric training, the patients in the observation group were supplemented with Kinesio taping. Before and after treatment, the symptoms of cervical spine function were evaluated in two groups by visual analogue scale (VAS), cervical dysfunction index (NDI), cervical range of motion and muscle stiffness.

RESULTS

After 3 weeks of treatment, VAS, NDI scores and the cervical range of motion were significantly better than before (P < 0.05). The range of anterior flexion and extension was significantly larger than the control group (P < 0.05), but the range of other motions were not certain. The muscle stiffness in KT group were significantly lower than the control group.

CONCLUSION

Kinesio taping combined with multi-angle isometric resistance training can further alleviate the clinical symptoms and correct the neck abnormal posture. But its effects on the range of cervical motion remain uncertain.

Pressure Pain Threshold of the Upper Trapezius Trigger Point: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis of Baseline Values and Their Modification after Physical Therapy

BACKGROUND

Myofascial trigger points (TrP) are diagnosed upon the presence of clinical signs among which hypersensitivity is considered one of the most important. The detection of the pressure pain threshold (PPT) is used to quantify the degree of hypersensitivity. However, there is a lack of normative data about how hypersensitive a TrP is. Therefore, the objective was to quantify the PPT for myofascial TrP in the upper trapezius muscle and its modification after manual or instrumental physical therapy interventions.

METHODS

A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted among three databases (MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, and PEDro). Two independent reviewers conducted the electronic search and assessed the methodological quality of the included studies.

RESULTS

Eleven studies with a high-risk bias indicated that the PPT at TrP sites was 105.11 kPa lower (95% CI: -148.93; -61.28) at active TrP sites (Chi-squared = 1.07, df = 1 (p = 0.30), I2 = 7%) compared to the PPT of the upper trapezius muscles of healthy subjects. In addition, the PPT of TrP was also lower than the reference values coming from the pain-free population. Moreover, the PPT increased after both manual and instrumental treatment by 28.36 kPa (95% CI: 10.75; 45.96) and 75.49 kPa (95% CI: 18.02; 132.95), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of the present study show that TrP has a decreased PPT when compared to healthy muscles and that physical therapy may increase the PPT. However, the clinical relevance of this decreased PPT needs to be further elucidated. Further, the high risk of bias in all the retrieved studies undermines the validity of the results.

Short-Term Changes in Chronic Neck Pain After the Use of Elastic Adhesive Tape

Objectives

The aim of the study was to examine the short-term changes of elastic adhesive tape application on pain intensity and the range of motion (ROM), cervical region proprioception sense, and cervical flexor endurance of patients with chronic neck pain.

Methods

Thirty-four patients (male: 26, female: 8) between ages 20 and 55 with chronic neck pain having the complaints for at least 6 months were included in the study. Demographic information, pain intensity, cervical ROM, cervical flexor endurance, and cervical proprioception sense of the patients were evaluated. Results were examined 2 times. The first evaluation was conducted prior to elastic adhesive tape application and the second one was conducted 24 hours after the procedure.

Results

The mean age of the patients was 39.56 ± 17.09 years, average height was 165.65 ± 9.83 cm, average weight was 71.44 ± 15.79 kg, and average body mass index was 26.24 ± 6.62. A statistically significant difference was found between the measurement results of pain intensity, ROM of the joint in flexion, extension, right and left rotation, and cervical flexor endurance before and 24 hours after the application of elastic adhesive tape (P < .05). When the proprioception sense was examined, there was a significant difference between the results before elastic adhesive tape application and 24 hours after the same application in deviation angles except for right rotation (P < .05).

Conclusion

The results of this study revealed short-term changes following the use of elastic adhesive tape on cervical flexor endurance, pain, and cervical proprioception sense for patients with chronic pain.

Efficacy of Kinesio Taping Compared to Other Treatment Modalities in Musculoskeletal Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Kinesio taping is widely used in musculoskeletal conditions. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis on the efficacy of kinesio taping in musculoskeletal disorders compared to other interventions. Twelve electronic databases were used for systemic search and data relevant to pain and disability were extracted. The protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42018087606). Meta-analysis was performed to compare the efficacy of kinesio taping to other modalities of musculoskeletal disorders. As a result, 36 studies were included in the quantitative analysis. Kinesio taping was found to provide an improvement of both pain and disability when applied to any region of the body. In the first five days of application, kinesio taping significantly reduced the pain in all body regions (SMD = -0.63, 95%CI: -0.87, -0.39). This was also noted after four-to-six weeks of application (SMD = -0.76, 95%CI: -1.07, -0.45). When kinesio taping was used for disability in low back pain patients, it significantly reduced the disability within five days of application (SMD = -0.70, 95%CI: -1.29, -0.11). Finally, kinesio taping has shown an improvement of the disability in all body regions after four-to-six weeks of application (SMD = -0.59, 95%CI: -0.96, -0.22). Our findings support kinesio taping as an adjuvant to other treatments for musculoskeletal disorders. Abbreviations KT = Kinesio taping; MSK = musculoskeletal; SD = standard deviation; CR = conventional rehabilitation; NDI = Neck Disability Index; NPS = Numerical Pain Scale; CTM = Cervical Thrust Manipulation; PIR = Post-isometric muscle relaxation; NPRS Numerical Pain Rating Scale; OA = osteoarthritis; ROM = Range of motion; VAS = visual analogue scale; VAS-W = visual analogue scale-worst pain; VAS-U = visual analogue scale-usual pain; VAS-R = visual analogue scale-resting pain; VAS-A = visual analogue scale-activity pain; VAS-N = visual analogue scale-night pain; NPDS = Neck Pain Disability Scale; QA = Quality assessment.

Comparison of the effects of extracorporeal shockwave treatment with kinesiological taping treatments added to exercise treatment in myofascial pain syndrome

BACKGROUND

Although studies examined kinesiological taping (KT) and extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) in myofascial pain syndrome (MPS), no study has yet compared these two treatments.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to compare the efficacy of KT and ESWT on pain, pain threshold, functional level and neck movements in the treatment of MPS, which is an important cause of disability and constitutes 50-80% of chronic painful diseases.

METHODS

Two hundred and sixty-two patients diagnosed with MPS in the upper part of the unilateral trapeze muscle were included in the study. The patients were divided into three groups according to the treatment they received: Group 1 (n= 75): ESWT + exercise, Group 2 (n= 82): KT + exercise, Group 3 (n= 105) and the latter receiving only exercise therapy (control group). Visual analog scale (VAS), pain threshold with algometer, Neck Disability Index (NDI), and neck contralateral lateral flexion angle were assessed before and three months after treatment.

RESULTS

VAS, pain threshold, NDI and contralateral flexion angle values after treatment improved significantly in the ESWT and KT groups (p< 0.05) compared to the control group. The level of improvement in the ESWT group was higher (p< 0.05) than in the KT group in terms of VAS, pain threshold and NDI scores.

CONCLUSION

Exercise, KT and ESWT applications in MPS were effective in all of the parameters examined. However, the ESWT + exercise therapy was more effective in terms of pain, pain threshold and disability.

Effectiveness of training about kinesiotaping in myofascial pain syndrome: A prospective, single-blind, randomized-controlled study

Objectives

In this study, we aimed to investigate whether there was any difference in kinesiotaping (KT) application on the upper trapezius muscle between a trained and untrained physiatrist in the management of patients with myofascial pain syndrome (MPS).

Patients and methods

Between April 2013 and July 2015, a total of 45 patients (44 females, 1 males; mean age 31.9±8.0 years; range, 18 to 55 years) with MPS were included in this prospective, single-blind, randomized-controlled study. The patients were randomly divided into two groups. The first group (intervention group, n=24) was administered KT band with the muscle in a tense condition according to the muscle technique performed by a trained physiatrist, from the muscle origo toward its insertion point. The second group (control group, n=21) received no technique and KT was applied to the painful area by an untrained physiatrist using a randomly selected method. Primary outcome measures were pain at rest, during activity (0-10 cm visual analog scale), and threshold measurement with algometry (kg/cm2). Secondary outcome measures were function (Neck Pain and Disability Scale), degree of palpable muscle spasm, and quality of life (Nottingham Health Profile). All evaluations were performed at baseline, at three and six weeks after the treatment.

Results

There were significant improvements in all parameters in both groups. There were no significant differences in any parameters at six weeks. We demonstrated that KT, which was applied on active trigger points on the upper trapezius muscle by trained and untrained physiatrists, improved pain, palpable muscle spasm, neck function, quality of life, and patient satisfaction degree in patients with MPS.

Conclusion

Our study results show that KT, which is applied by trained and untrained physiatrists, improves pain, palpable muscle spasm, neck function, quality of life in patients with MPS.

Functional effects of kinesiology taping for medial plica syndrome: a prospective randomized controlled trial

Background: Medial plica syndrome (MPS) is a common yet overlooked cause of anterior knee pain. The treatment options for MPS include a variety of conservative approaches, however, the effect of kinesiology taping (KT), which is a feasible and effective treatment choice for musculoskeletal pathologies, has not been studied.Objectives: We investigated the efficacy of KT in addition to exercise in terms of pain severity, pain threshold, functional muscle strength of lower extremity, dynamic balance, functional status, and quality of life in patients with MPS.Methods: Eighty participants with MPS were randomly and equally divided into two groups: 1) the KT group, which received KT in addition to a 6-week exercise program; and 2) the control group, which received the 6-week exercise program alone. The following evaluations were conducted before and after the treatment; pain threshold, pain severity, disability level, functional strength and dynamic balance of the lower extremity, and quality of life.Results: Pain intensity decreased during activity, at rest, and night (KT group p < .001; control group p ≤ 0.013), and pain thresholds increased (KT group p < .001; control group p = .008) in both groups, however, the after treatment measures were better in the KT group (p ≤ 0.012). The time taken to complete the stairs up and down test decreased in both groups (KT group p < .001, control group p = .007) with a better outcome in the KT group (p = .024). Disability scores improved significantly in the KT only (p < .001). The quality of life improved in both groups (KT group p < .001; control group p = .005).Conclusions: While exercise therapy is beneficial in MPS treatment for functionality and pain relief; KT, in addition to exercise, improved symptoms and decreased impairment more efficiently than exercise alone in patients with MPS in our study, and it is thus a favorable treatment option for MPS.

Investigation of the effect of kinesiotaping on the respiratory function and depression in male patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a prospective, randomized, controlled, and single-blind study

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to investigate the effect of kinesiotaping (KT) on the respiratory parameters as measured by spirometry and depression in the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients.

METHODS

In this prospective, randomized, controlled, single-blind study 42 male patients with COPD diagnosis were randomized into two groups. In Group1 (n = 21) routine COPD medical treatment plus kinesiotaping and in Group2 (n = 21) only routine COPD medical treatment was given. KT was changed on every fifth day (for a total of three times and 15 days). The patients were assessed using Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for difficulty experienced by the patients during respiration, respiratory function test (RFT), modified medical research council (mMRC) dyspnea scale and beck depression inventory (BDI). The data were obtained before treatment and posttreatment.

RESULTS

In Group 1; statistically significant improvement was found in all parameters except for FVC and FVC % following treatment compared to pretreatment values. Comparison of the difference scores (the amount of recovery between posttreatment and pretreatment) of the two groups showed significantly superior improvement in Group1 for all parameters except for FVC, FVC % and FEV1% following the treatment (p < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study showed that supplementary kinesiotaping improved respiratory function and depression significantly compared to only routine medical treatment in COPD patients who were in stable condition.

A comparison of dry needling and kinesiotaping therapies in myofascial pain syndrome: A randomized clinical study

Objectives

This study aims to compare the effectiveness of dry needling (DN) and kinesiotaping (KT) therapies on pain, quality of life, depression, and physical function in the treatment of myofascial pain syndrome (MPS).

Patients and methods

The study included a total of 60 patients (4 males, 56 females; mean age 31.2±9.8 years; range, 18 to 56 years) diagnosed with MPS between January 2014 and June 2014. The patients were randomly divided into two treatment groups: the DN group (n=30) and KT group (n=30). Both groups performed stretching and postural exercises. The scales used for measurements were the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for pain, a pressure algometer for the pressure-pain threshold, the Short Form-36 (SF-36) for the quality of life, Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) for depression, and the Neck Pain and Disability Scale (NPDS) for physical function. The patients were evaluated by a single assessor three times: pre-treatment, at the end of the treatment, and two months after the treatment.

Results

Both DN and KT provided significant improvements for all baseline measurements (VAS, pressure pain threshold, all subscales of SF-36, BDI, and NPDS scores) at the end of the treatment and two months after the treatment (p<0.05). However, there was no significant difference between the groups in all measurements (p>0.05).

Conclusion

Kinesiotaping is as an effective method as DN in the treatment of MPS. It can be served as a non-invasive alternative to patients with needle phobia.

The effect of Kinesio taping on cervical proprioception in athletes with mechanical neck pain-a placebo-controlled trial

Background

Neck proprioception is critical in maintaining neuromuscular control in and around cervical joints. Kinesio™ tape may assist in rehabilitating joint position sense. The current study compares Kinesio™ tape’s effects versus a placebo on proprioception in college athletes experiencing mechanical neck pain.

Methods

This study randomized sixty-six athletes with mechanical neck pain into a Kinesio™ tape group (n = 33, mean age = 22.73 years) or placebo group (n = 33, mean age = 23.15 years). The Kinesio™ tape group received standard Kinesio™ taping applications with appropriate tension, while the placebo group received taping applications without tension. Outcome measures: The study assessed cervical joint position errors with a cervical range-of-motion (CROM) device, pain intensity with a visual analog scale (VAS), and neck functional disability with a neck disability index (NDI). It tested joint position errors through cervical flexion, extension, rotation left, and rotation right. All the outcome measures were recorded at the baseline and twice more following 3 and 7 days of tape applications.

Results

Multivariate analysis of variance test demonstrated a significant reduction in joint position errors in flexion, extension and right rotation following 3 days and 7 days of tape application among the Kinesio™ tape group. There was a significant main effect of time (P < 0.05) for joint position errors in left rotation and VAS after 3 days (p > 0.05), NDI after 3 and 7 days (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

The Kinesio™ tape application after 3 and 7 days effectively decreased joint position errors and neck pain intensity in mechanical neck pain participants compared to placebo, while there was no difference between both groups in the NDI.

Trial registration

(CTRI/2011/07/001925). This study was retrospectively registered on the 27th July, 2011.

Level of evidence

IIB

Taping for conditions of the musculoskeletal system: an evidence map review

Background

Taping is a common treatment modality used by many rehabilitation providers. Several types of tapes and taping methods are used in the treatment of musculoskeletal dysfunction and pain.

Purpose

To summarize and map the evidence related to taping methods used for various joints and conditions of the musculoskeletal system, and to provide clinicians and researchers with a user-friendly reference with organized evidence tables.

Data sources

The PEDro, CINAHL, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Cochrane Central Register for Controlled Trials, PubMed, and PROSPERO databases were searched from inception through October 31, 2019.

Study selection

Eligible studies were selected by two independent reviewers and included either systematic reviews (SRs) or randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and included a musculoskeletal complaint using a clinical outcome measure.

Data extraction

Data was extracted by two investigators independently. Risk of bias and quality were assessed using A MeaSurement Tool to Assess systematic Reviews (AMSTAR) for SRs or the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale for RCTs. The protocol was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42019122857).

Data synthesis

Twenty-five musculoskeletal conditions were summarized from forty-one SRs and 127 RCTs. There were 6 SRs and 49 RCTs for spinal conditions. Kinesio tape was the most common type of tape considered. Four evidence tables representing the synthesized SRs and RCTs were produced and organized by body region per condition.

Limitations

Inclusion of only English language studies. Also, the heterogeneous nature of the included studies prevented a meta-analysis.

Conclusions

There is mixed quality evidence of effectiveness for the different types of taping methods for different body regions and conditions. All of the SRs and RCTs found during our search of the taping literature have been organized into a series of appendices. A synthesis of the results have been placed in evidence tables that may serve as a useful guide to clinicians and researchers.

The effectiveness of biomechanical taping and Kinesiotaping on shoulder pain, active range of motion and function of participants with Trapezius Myalgia: A randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Trapezius Myalgia (TM) is characterized by shoulder pain and dysfunction. Kinesio Taping is commonly used in symptom management of TM. Biomechanical Taping (BMT), a novel intervention, may provide equally effective management.

OBJECTIVES

This paper reports on the effectiveness of Biomechanical Taping compared with Kinesio Taping in improving shoulder pain, active range of motion (AROM), and function.

METHODS

Two groups of participants with TM were recruited through simple random sampling of participants from nine call centers and purposively-sampled participants from one fast-food chain and one community based rehabilitation center in Manila, Philippines. Participants were randomly allocated to either Kinesio Taping or biomechanical taping group in a double-blind clinical trial. Irrespective of the type of taping, participants performed gentle passive stretching of upper trapezius for six times each held for 30 s on Days 1, 3, and 5. On Days 2 and 4, participants performed gentle passive stretch of upper trapezius three times a day. Pre- and post-intervention measures were taken of Visual Analogue Scale for pain intensity, AROM for shoulder movement, and Disability of Arm, Shoulder, and Hand for function.

RESULTS

Of 68 participants, 62 had shoulder symptoms secondary to TM. Similar significant within group improvements were found for Visual Analogue Scale scores, and Disability of Arm, Shoulder and Hand for biomechanical taping and Kinesio Taping interventions when comparing between group results (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Biomechanical Taping appears to be as effective as Kinesio Taping in the short term in decreasing pain and improving function of individuals with TM. Both taping techniques did not restrict shoulder AROM of included participants.

MESH TERMS

Athletic Tape, Myalgia, Pain Measurements, Shoulder Pain NON-MESH TERMS: Biomechanical Taping Technique.

Treatment and management of myofascial pain syndrome

Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS) is a regional pain disorder that affects every age-group and is characterized by the presence of trigger points (TrPs) within muscles or fascia. MPS is typically diagnosed via physical exam, and the general agreement for diagnostic criteria includes the presence of TrPs, pain upon palpation, a referred pain pattern, and a local twitch response. The prevalence of MPS among patients presenting to medical clinics due to pain ranges anywhere from 30 to 93%. This may be due to the lack of clear criteria and guidelines in diagnosing MPS. Despite the prevalence of MPS, its pathophysiology remains incompletely understood. There are many different ways to manage and treat MPS. Some include exercise, TrP injections, medications, and other alternative therapies. More research is needed to form uniformly-accepted diagnostic criteria and treatments.

Effects of Taping and Balance Exercises on Knee and Lower-Extremity Function in Amateur Soccer Players: A Randomized Controlled Trial

CONTEXT

Knee injury prevention is a critical aspect in sport rehabilitation sciences, and taping is a widely used technique in this field. Nevertheless, the role and effectiveness of a long-term application of Kinesio Taping (KT) on knee function, disability, and injury prevention remain unclear.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the effect of KT, alone or in combination with balance exercises (BE), on dynamic and static knee balance and flexibility.

DESIGN

Randomized trial design.

SETTING

University of Valencia (Spain).

PARTICIPANTS

Forty-eight male amateur soccer players.

INTERVENTION

Participants were assigned to 3 groups: Sham KT (sKT) + BE, KT + BE, and KT in isolation. The intervention period lasted 4 weeks. Three evaluations were performed: at baseline (pre), at 2 weeks (mid), and at 4 weeks posttreatment (post).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Y Balance Test, unipedal stance test, the toe touch test, and the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score.

RESULTS

Both sKT + BE and KT + BE groups achieved significant pre-post improvements in SEBT, unipedal stance test, and toe touch test. The KT group only showed significant intragroup differences in the left and right unipedal stance test variable (P < .05, d = 0.76, d = 0.62, respectively). The sham KT group obtained the strongest results in all physical variables. Regarding the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score, pre-post significant changes were found in the sham group (P < .05, d = 0.28).

CONCLUSIONS

Both sham and real KT in combination with BE achieved significant improvements on all physical variables, and these differences were significantly greater compared with those found in the KT in the isolation group, suggesting that benefits in knee function are due to the BE.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapy level 1b.

Effects of Kinesio Taping on Post-Needling Induced Pain After Dry Needling of Active Trigger Point in Individuals With Mechanical Neck Pain

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness of the application of kinesio taping in reducing induced pain after dry needling of active trigger points (TrPs) to the upper trapezius muscle.

METHODS

Consecutive patients had mechanical neck pain (n = 34, 44% female) with active TrPs in the upper trapezius muscle. All participants received dry needling into upper trapezius active TrPs. Then, they were randomly divided into a kinesio taping group, which received an adhesive tape (Kinesio Tex), and a control group, which did not receive the taping. The numeric pain rating scale was assessed (0-10) at post-needling; immediately after; and 24 hours, 48 hours, and 72 hours after needling. Neck- and shoulder-related disability was assessed before and 72 hours after needling with the Neck Disability Index (NDI) and the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index, respectively. The pressure pain threshold (PPT) over the TrP was also assessed post-needling, immediately post-intervention, and 72 hours after needling.

RESULTS

The analysis of covariance did not find a significant group × time interaction (P = .26) for post-needling soreness: both groups exhibited similar changes in post-needling induced pain (P < .001). No significant group × time interactions were observed for changes in NDI (P = .62), SPADI (P = .41), or PPTs (P = .52): similar improvements were found after the needling procedure for the NDI (P < .001), Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (P < .001), and PPT (P < .001). The number of local twitch responses and sex (all, P > .30) did not influence the effect for any outcome.

CONCLUSION

The application of kinesio taping after dry needling of active TrPs in the upper trapezius muscle was not effective for reducing post-needling induced pain in people with mechanical neck pain. Further, the application of kinesio taping as a post-needling intervention did not influence short-term changes in disability.

Kinesio taping versus dry needling in the treatment of myofascial pain of the upper trapezius muscle: A randomized, single blind (evaluator), prospective study

BACKGROUND

Although a number of therapeutic interventions for trigger-point inactivation have been studied, it remains controversial which intervention is better.

OBJECTIVE

To compare the effectiveness of the kinesio taping and dry needling methods in patients with trigger-point related myofascial pain syndrome of the upper trapezius muscle.

METHODS

A total of 42 patients were randomly allocated to the kinesio taping group (n= 23) and dry needling group (n= 19). The patients were assessed for pain, pressure pain threshold (PPT), cervical range of motion (CROM), and function at baseline, at short- and medium-term stages after treatment. To investigate the effects of the interventions over time, two-way repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used.

RESULTS

There was a significant improvement in pain intensity at rest and cervical motion, in the PPT readings (p< 0.05), in CROM (p< 0.05), and in function (p< 0.05) in both groups, with no superiority either (p> 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Kinesio taping may be a choice of trigger point inactivation in patients who do not want to be needled or who show contraindication(s) to treatments other than kinesio taping.

Short-Term Effects of Kinesio Taping in the Treatment of Latent and Active Upper Trapezius Trigger Points: two Prospective, Randomized, Sham-Controlled Trials

The presence of myofascial trigger points (MTrPs) is one of the most common causes of musculoskeletal problems and may lead to limited professional activity. Among the various treatment methods proposed for MTrPs, Kinesio Taping (KT) is a non-invasive, painless, and less time-consuming method with fewer side effects that has become widely used as a therapeutic tool in a variety of prevention and rehabilitation protocols. The aim of the study was to evaluate the immediate and short-term efficacy of the space correction KT technique in patients with latent or active MTrPs in the upper trapezius muscle. Two parallel randomized sham-controlled trials were simultaneously executed: in trial A, ninety-seven participants with latent MTrPs were randomly assigned to either the KT (n = 51) or sham (n = 46) group; in trial B, thirty-seven participants with active MTrPs were assigned to the KT (n = 20) or sham (n = 17) group. The primary outcome was pressure pain threshold (PPT) in the upper trapezius muscle, measured with algometry. Secondary outcomes included the active range of motion (ROM) of the cervical spine (lateral flexion and rotation), measured with a cervical ROM goniometer. In each trial, two-way ANOVA tests were used to compare the study effects on the outcome measures between the groups, with time serving as the intra-group factor (baseline, immediately, and 72 h after the application) and the intervention type (KT and sham) as the between-group factor. At 72 h, participants receiving KT did not show significant differences in PPT (trial A: mean difference −1.8 N; 95% CI: [−8.1, 4.4], trial B: mean difference −1.2 N; 95% CI: [−7.4, 5.1]), cervical lateral flexion (trial A: mean difference 0.2 degrees; 95% CI: [−2.7, 3.1], trial B: mean difference −2.4 degrees; 95% CI: [−8.4, 3.6]), and cervical rotation (trial A: mean difference 3.7 degrees; 95% CI: [−0.1, 7.5], trial B: mean difference 1.4 degrees; 95% CI: [−5.7, 8.4]), compared to the sham groups. Thus, the results of this study do not support the use of the space correction KT technique to treat patients with latent or active myofascial trigger points in the upper trapezius muscle.

Evidence for kinesio taping in management of myofascial pain syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Objective:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of kinesio taping for managing myofascial pain syndrome in terms of pain intensity, pressure pain threshold, range of motion, muscle strength and disability.

Data sources:

PubMed, EBSCO, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, Cochrane Library and Physiotherapy Evidence Databases were searched from database inception to November 2018.

Methods:

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that used kinesio taping as the main treatment protocol for participants diagnosed with myofascial pain syndrome were included. Two reviewers independently screened articles, scored methodological quality using Cochrane risk-of-bias tool and extracted data. The primary outcomes were pain intensity, pressure pain threshold and range of motion at post-intervention and follow-up. The secondary outcomes were muscle strength and disability at post-intervention and follow-up.

Data synthesis:

Meta-analyses of 20 RCTs involving 959 patients showed that kinesio taping was more effective than other treatments in reducing pain intensity (mean difference (MD) = 1.06 cm, 95% confidence interval (CI): −1.66 to −0.46 cm, P = 0.006) and increasing range of motion (standardized mean difference (SMD) = 0.26, 95% CI: 0.09 to 0.43, P = 0.003) at post-intervention. Kinesio taping was also superior to other non-invasive techniques in relieving pain intensity at follow-up (MD = −0.68 cm, 95% CI: −1.22 to −0.13 cm, P = 0.02). However, there was no detectable effect on disability or function.

Conclusion:

Statistical evidence showed that kinesio taping could be recommended to relieve pain intensity and range of motion for patients with myofascial pain syndrome at post-intervention.

A Short Overview of the Effects of Kinesio Taping for Postural Spine Curvature Disorders

Spine curvature disorders are very common in the population. Several therapeutic methods have been implemented over time. Kinesio Taping (KT) is a solution that is utilized for several purposes. This narrative review aims to discuss KT methodology as a valid solution for spinal curvature disorders, especially for structured and non-structured spine deviations. The matter is poorly discussed in the current literature. Nevertheless, KT seems to indirectly influence posture and spine curvature disorders through peripheral and central nervous system stimulation, but further investigations are needed to demonstrate these unknown effects clearly. The present review provides a valuable contribution to the existing literature and may represent a starting point and a useful guide for further studies in this field of research.

NO EFFECT OF KINESIOLOGY TAPE ON PASSIVE TENSION, STRENGTH OR QUADRICEPS MUSCLE ACTIVATION OF DURING MAXIMAL VOLUNTARY ISOMETRIC CONTRACTIONS IN RESISTANCE TRAINED MEN

BACKGROUND

Kinesiology Tape (KT) is widely used in sports rehabilitation and by those performing physical activity, however, there is no consensus in the scientific literature about its effectiveness on performance, strength or muscle activation.Purpose: The purpose of this study was to measure the acute effects of KT in static rest, and during knee extension maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) performance in resistance trained men.Study Design: Observational, descriptive, comparative.

METHODS

Eighteen young, healthy, trained males (age: 25 ± 6 years, height: 176.0 ± 5 cm, and mass: 81.8 ± 8.0 kg) volunteered to participate. Initially, they were in a relaxed sitting position of 90 degrees knee flexion with their limb supported by the machine lever arm to measure passive tension of the tissues of the knee joint. Then, they performed three MVIC trials of five seconds each with a three-minute rest between trials, in four randomized experimental conditions, with 10-min rest between conditions: (a) control, no taping; (b) Knee Sleeve; (c) KT; and (d) sham. During all MVICs, peak force, impulse, and muscle activation of the vastus lateralis (integrated electromyography [IEMG] and median frequency) were measured.

RESULTS

Repeated measures ANOVAs revealed no statistical differences between conditions for passive tension (p > 0.05), peak force (p > 0.05), impulse (p > 0.05), IEMG (p > 0.05), or median frequency (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

KT does not influence passive tension during static position at 90 degrees of knee flexion. KT does not affect quadriceps activation or force production during a maximal voluntary isometric contraction in the same position.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3a.

Assessment of the Short-Term Effectiveness of Kinesiotaping and Trigger Points Release Used in Functional Disorders of the Masticatory Muscles

Chronic face pain syndrome is a diagnostic and therapeutic problem for many specialists, and this proves the interdisciplinary and complex nature of this ailment. Physiotherapy is of particular importance in the treatment of pain syndrome in the course of temporomandibular joint functional disorders. In patients with long-term dysfunction of masticatory muscles, the palpation examination can localize trigger points, that is, thickening in the form of nodules in the size of rice grains or peas. Latent trigger points located in the muscles can interfere with muscular movement patterns, cause cramps, and reduce muscle strength. Because hidden trigger points can spontaneously activate, they should be found and released to prevent further escalation of the discomfort. Kinesiotaping (KT) is considered as an intervention that can be used to release latent myofascial trigger points. It is a method that involves applying specific tapes to the patient's skin in order to take advantage of the natural self-healing processes of the body. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of the kinesiotaping method and trigger points inactivation on the nonpharmacological elimination of pain in patients with temporomandibular disorders. The study was conducted in 60 patients (18 to 35 years old). The subjects were randomly divided into two subgroups of 30 people each. Group KT (15 women and 15 men) were subjected to active kinesiotaping application. Group TrP, composed of 16 women and 14 men, was subjected to physiotherapy with the release of trigger points by the ischemic compression method. The results show that the KT method and TrP inactivation brought significant therapeutic analgesic effects in the course of pain-related functional disorders of the muscles of mastication. The more beneficial outcomes of the therapy were observed after using the KT method, which increased the analgesic effect in dysfunctional patients.

Does Kinesio taping correct exaggerated dynamic knee valgus? A randomized double blinded sham-controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Deficiency in hip girdle neuromuscular control can cause exaggerated Dynamic Knee Valgus (DKV) which afflicts the knee joint and lead to knee injuries especially ACL injury in sports. Though Kinesio taping (KT) is known to improve function, stability and proprioception, the evidence is inconclusive on its effectiveness in athletes. We hypothesized that kinesio taping could enhance neuromuscular control of the hip girdle there by causing a reduction in DKV.

AIM/OBJECTIVE

To determine whether KT on Gluteus medius can correct exaggerated dynamic knee valgus and improves hip abductor strength when compared to sham KT.

METHOD

40 collegiate level athletes, aged between 18 and 28 years, of both genders with presence of dynamic knee valgus (>8° for men and >13° for women) were recruited in the study. Athletes were excluded if they had history of lower back pain, history of any injury or surgery to the lower extremities during the past year. Subjects who met the inclusion criteria were randomized into kinesio taping (KT) group and sham taping (ST) group. The Drop Jump test and the Donnatelli Drop Leg Test (DDT) were performed before, and on the third day, immediately after the application of KT on them and documented.

RESULTS

There was a significant reduction in DKV among male [4.0° (95% CI 3.5-4.5); p < 0.001] and female [4.3° (95% CI 3.5-5.2); p < 0.002] immediately after application of taping but not on the third day after application of KT. There was a significant rise in DDT immediately and on the third day after application of KT between KT group and SC group.

CONCLUSION

There was a reduction in DKV immediately after the application of KT. However, there was no significant difference between KT group and SC group on the third day. Meanwhile, gluteus medius strength also showed significant improvement immediately after taping and it was maintained even on the third day.