Early Effects of Kinesio Taping on Clinical Outcomes in Patients With Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair: A...

Kinesio tape (KT) is being applied increasingly in physical therapy and rehabilitation. This trial aimed to examine the effect of KT in terms of functional outcomes in people undergoing arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR).

KT after ARCR will reduce pain and edema.

A double-blind, randomized controlled trial.

Level 1b.

A total of 45 patients who underwent ARCR were assigned randomly to 1 of 3 groups: KT (n = 15), sham taping (ST, n = 15), and control (n = 15). Participants received a conservative physiotherapy program. The physiotherapy program, which was conservative in nature, covered the first 7 weeks after surgery. In addition to the program, patients in the KT group were also treated with KT, while those in the ST group received ST. Pain levels (visual analog scale), edema, and functional scores (Western-Ontario Rotator Cuff Index, Modified Constant-Murley Shoulder Score, Revised Oxford Shoulder Score, and Shoulder Pain and Disability Index) were evaluated at regular intervals throughout the treatment.

Baseline characteristics of the groups were similar (P > 0.05). All evaluation parameters showed significant improvement over time in all 3 groups (P < 0.05). There were no differences between the groups in any of the parameters when analyzed for group × time interactions (P > 0.05).

This study found no efficacy of KT after ARCR in reducing pain and edema and improving shoulder function in the short- or medium-term.

Clinicians should not expect additional short- or medium-term benefits from KT in reducing pain and edema or improving shoulder function after ARCR.