Evidence for taping in overhead athlete shoulders: a systematic review

Area of Science:

• Sports Medicine
• Biomechanics
• Rehabilitation

Background:

• Shoulder taping is frequently integrated into injury prevention strategies for athletes.
• Overhead athletes are particularly susceptible to shoulder injuries due to repetitive, high-velocity movements.

Approach:

• A comprehensive literature search was conducted to evaluate the effects of shoulder taping.
• Eligible studies focused on rotational range of motion, posterior shoulder tightness, kinematics, muscular activity, acromiohumeral distance, proprioception, strength, and performance.

Key Points:

• Limited to moderate evidence suggests shoulder taping can positively influence rotational range of motion, acromiohumeral distance, proprioception, and scapular kinematics.
• Taping did not demonstrate significant improvements in posterior shoulder tightness, muscular activity, shoulder strength, or athletic performance.
• The majority of taping techniques involved scapular and humeral head repositioning.

Conclusions:

• Shoulder taping may offer therapeutic or preventive benefits by altering specific biomechanical factors.
• Taping should be considered an adjunct to, rather than a standalone solution for, managing shoulder issues in overhead athletes.
• A comprehensive, multifactorial approach is recommended for optimal athlete shoulder management.