Immediate effects of Kinesio taping and Dynamic taping on acromiohumeral distance in individuals with symptomatic rotator cuff tendinopathy.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: It has been suggested that the reduction in subacromial space during arm elevation is one of the potential mechanisms in the etiology of Rotator cuff tendinopathy. While it is known that Kinesio taping reduces the narrowing of the acromiohumeral distance (AHD) during arm elevation, the effect of Dynamic taping remains unknown. PURPOSE: This study aimed to compare the immediate effects of Kinesio taping and Dynamic taping on AHD in individuals with symptomatic Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy. STUDY DESIGN: Two group pre-post-test repeated measures design was used. METHODS: Thirty-two participants were randomly assigned to two groups Kinesio taping group (n = 16) and Dynamic taping group (n = 16). AHD measurements were taken via ultrasound at 0° (rest) and 60° shoulder abduction both before and immediately after taping. Repeated measures ANOVAs were used for statistical analyses. RESULTS: The study demonstrated that both taping methods led to a significant increase in AHD at both neutral and 60° abduction. However, the increase in AHD with Dynamic taping was statistically greater than with Kinesio taping in both neutral (p < 0.05) and 60° abduction (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The findings of this study suggest that Dynamic taping techniques may be a more effective approach for improving AHD for symptomatic patients. Therefore, Dynamic taping has the potential to be clinically beneficial before engaging in exercises.