The effects of lumbo-pelvic postural taping on gait parameters in patients with lumbar spinal stenosis

Altered gait patterns with lumbar-flexed posture threaten the quality of life in patients with lumbar spinal stenosis; however, few studies have developed management strategies to improve gait patterns and lumbo-pelvic posture. The present study investigated the effects of lumbo-pelvic postural taping on pelvic tilt, spatiotemporal gait parameters, and pain during walking in patients with lumbar spinal stenosis.

The pelvic tilt and gait parameters were assessed in 20 patients with lumbar spinal stenosis before sustained walking using a palpation meter and GAITRite system, respectively. Next, the participants were asked to walk on the ground for 20 min or until they complained of symptoms of neurogenic claudication. Pelvic tilt and gait parameters were measured immediately after the manifestation of neurogenic claudication followed by the application of lumbo-pelvic postural taping. The participants rated the pain intensity using a visual analog scale. Changes in dependent variables among the conditions were analyzed using a one-way repeated-measures analysis of variance.

The results show a decreased pelvic anterior tilt, walking velocity, and step and stride lengths, as well as an increased base of support and pain after severe symptoms of neurogenic claudication (P<0.05). However, a greater pelvic anterior tilt, faster walking velocity with a longer step and stride length, and decreased base of support and pain were found after the application of postural taping (P≤0.001).

These findings suggest that lumbo-pelvic postural taping can provide beneficial management for improving gait patterns and lumbo-pelvic posture in patients with lumbar spinal stenosis.