Kinesio taping is superior to other taping methods in ankle functional performance improvement: a systematic review...

To compare the effect of Kinesio taping on ankle functional performance with that of other taping methods (non-elastic taping) in healthy individuals and patients with ankle sprain.

A search was performed in electronic databases (MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure) for studies published up to 31 March 2018 using the following keywords: ankle, Kinesio taping, KT, and tape. Studies on ankle functional performance were selected, and data on Star Excursion Balance Test results, vertical jump height, and range of motion were extracted. Meta-analyses (where appropriate and possible) using either fixed or random effects model, standardized mean differences, and tests of heterogeneity were performed.

Ten studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The Star Excursion Balance Test results indicated that Kinesio taping was superior to other taping methods (placebo taping or tension-free taping). The mean difference was 3.2 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.84-5.59, I² = 5%, P = 0.008). In studies in which vertical jump height was measured, a negative effect was observed for other taping methods (athletic taping or placebo taping), but not for Kinesio taping (mean difference = 1.06, 95% CI: 0.19-0.93, I² = 15%, P = 0.02). Both Kinesio taping and common taping had no significant effect on range of motion, with no differences between these methods ( I² = 0%, P = 0.80).

Kinesio taping is superior to other taping methods (athletic taping) in ankle functional performance improvement.