Abstract
Background: Scarce evidence exists about effectiveness and mechanisms of action of Kinesio tape (KT) application. Objectives: To evaluate the effect of KT application over the gastrocnemius or hamstring on range of motion and peak force. Methods: Thirty-six physical therapy students participated (18 per group). KT was applied with 30% tension for 48 h to: Group 1 - the gastrocnemius; Group 2 - the hamstrings. The straight leg raise (SLR), knee extension angle (KEA), weight bearing ankle dorsiflexion, gastrocnemius, quadriceps and hamstrings peak forces were evaluated prior to application, 15 min and 48 h after. Results and conclusions: A significant increase of peak force in the gastrocnemius group appeared immediately and two days later; no immediate change of peak force in the hamstrings group, however, two days later, peak force significantly increased. SLR and ankle dorsiflexion increased immediately in the gastrocnemius group; KEA improved significantly only after two days. It is possible that certain muscles react differently when KT is applied, and the effect may be subsequently detected.
Original language | English |
---|---|
Pages (from-to) | 130-138 |
Number of pages | 9 |
Journal | Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies |
Volume | 18 |
Issue number | 1 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - 1 Jan 2014 |
Keywords
- Kinesio tape
- Muscle strength
- Physiotherapy techniques
- Range of motion
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Complementary and Manual Therapy
- Physical Therapy, Sports Therapy and Rehabilitation
- Rehabilitation
- Complementary and alternative medicine