Does Kinesio taping correct exaggerated dynamic knee valgus? A randomized double blinded sham-controlled trial

Area of Science:

• Sports Medicine
• Biomechanics
• Rehabilitation

Background:

• Dynamic knee valgus (DKV) is linked to hip abductor weakness and increased ACL injury risk in athletes.
• Kinesio taping (KT) is proposed to enhance neuromuscular control, but its efficacy for DKV is unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate KT's effect on Gluteus medius activation and DKV correction in collegiate athletes.
• To compare KT efficacy against sham taping (ST) for improving hip abductor strength and reducing DKV.

Main Methods:

• 40 collegiate athletes with DKV were randomized into KT or ST groups.
• The Drop Jump test and Donnatelli Drop Leg Test (DDT) assessed DKV and hip abductor strength.
• Measurements were taken immediately pre-taping, immediately post-taping, and on day three.

Main Results:

• A significant immediate reduction in DKV was observed in both male and female athletes post-KT.
• Hip abductor strength, measured by DDT, significantly improved immediately and on day three in the KT group compared to ST.
• The DKV reduction was not sustained by the third day post-KT application.

Conclusions:

• Kinesio taping can provide immediate improvements in dynamic knee valgus and gluteus medius strength.
• While immediate effects are evident, the sustained impact of KT on DKV requires further investigation.
• KT shows promise for enhancing hip abductor function in athletes susceptible to knee injuries.