Influence of kinesio tape application direction on peak force of biceps brachii muscle: A repeated measurement study

Elisha Vered, Liron Oved, Daniel Zilberg, Leonid Kalichman

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

8 Scopus citations

Abstract

Background: According to the kinesio tape (KT) method, proximal-to-distal (P-to-D) application of KT should facilitate muscle activity (increase strength), distal-to- proximal (D-to-P) should decrease muscle activity (decrease strength) and applications in other directions should not influence muscle strength. Objective: To evaluate the influence of KT application direction on peak force of biceps brachii in healthy subjects. Methods: 16 students participated in a single group repeated measurements study. KT was applied randomly on both anterior arms as follows: no KT; P-to-D; D-to-P; or two horizontal stripes. Peak force of biceps was measured after each application by a blinded investigator. Results: No difference in biceps peak force was found after evaluating no KT, P-to-and D-to-P. After the horizontal application, peak force was found statistically significantly higher than in the other conditions. Conclusions: Traditional assumptions of the KT method, suggesting that P-to-application stimulates muscle and D-to-relaxes the muscle, seem to be false. However, we do confirm that applying KT in various directions differently effects muscle strength.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)203-207
Number of pages5
JournalJournal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies
Volume20
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - 1 Jan 2016

Keywords

  • Kinesio tape
  • Muscle strength
  • Physiotherapy techniques

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Complementary and Manual Therapy
  • Physical Therapy, Sports Therapy and Rehabilitation
  • Rehabilitation
  • Complementary and alternative medicine

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