Does kinesio taping affect balance in individuals with multiple sclerosis?

Balance disorders are common in individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) due to the combined effects of lack of adequate postural control, muscle weakness, ataxia, and lack of sensory information. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of Kinesio taping (KT) on balance among subjects with MS.

This was a non-controlled observational study. A consecutive convenience sample of 30 individuals with MS was assessed. KT was applied directly to the skin under the foot. Clinical assessments were performed at baseline, immediately before and after application of the tape. Balance was evaluated with both eyes open and closed. The effects of sense of balance, spasticity, and muscle strength were evaluated.

A significant difference was observed before and after banding in the dominant and non-dominant extremities (p_before = .001, p_after = .002). There was a significant difference between vibration and two-point discrimination and balance (p > 0.05). There was no significant relationship between light touch sense and balance (p > 0.05). Further, except for tibialis anterior muscle strength, there was no significant difference between balance and other lower extremity muscles (p > 0.05). In addition, except for muscle spasticity in the quadriceps, there was a significant difference between balance and other lower extremity muscles (p < 0.05).

KT appears to be a useful tool in reducing the fall rate and improving balance skills in patients with MS. These preliminary results suggest that the use of Kinesio foot taping may be useful in immediately stabilising body posture.