Using an Electronic Goniometer to Assess the Influence of Single-Application Kinesiology Taping on Unstable Shoulder...

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Sports Medicine
• Rehabilitation Science

Background:

• Glenohumeral joint instability is linked to proprioception deficits.
• Kinesiology taping (KT) and exercise can improve joint position sense.
• Limited research exists on KT's effects on shoulder proprioception, particularly using novel tools like the Propriometer.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the usability of the Propriometer for assessing KT effects on shoulder instability.
• To determine the impact of a single KT application on joint position sense and limb function in anterior, post-traumatic shoulder instability.

Main Methods:

• Thirty individuals with anterior shoulder instability and 35 healthy controls were assessed.
• Proprioception was measured using the Propriometer before and three days after KT application.
• The Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index (WOSI) assessed subjective shoulder function and stability.

Main Results:

• A proprioceptive deficit was observed in patients with shoulder instability.
• KT application did not significantly alter the active joint position reproduction error.
• KT therapy significantly improved WOSI scores, indicating better perceived shoulder function and stability.

Conclusions:

• The Propriometer is an effective tool for evaluating KT's impact on shoulder instability proprioception.
• While KT did not directly enhance shoulder proprioception, it positively affected patients' subjective experience of stability and function.