The effects of kinesiology tape on pain and range of motion for individuals with shoulder pain

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine the immediate and short term effects of Rocktape (RT) on shoulder pain and range of motion (ROM) for individuals with existing shoulder pain. Twenty collegiate students with existing shoulder pain participated in two functional upper body exercises (push-ups, throwing) for 6 separate sessions. The independent variables included taping conditions (bare, treatment, and sham) and time (immediate and 48 hours post taping). Shoulder pain, stability, and comfort were subjectively measured using Likert scales. Maximum shoulder abduction (AB) and external rotation (ER) were measured using 3D motion analysis during 25 maximal effort throwing motions with a 2-lb medicine ball at a stationary target. These values were acquired in the early to late cocking throwing phase. All tests were performed without, immediately after taping and 48 hours post taping for both taping conditions. Significant values were found when comparing the push-up and throwing exercises in regards to pain, stability, and comfort in all 3 conditions. Results showed no significant changes between the treatment and sham taping. These outcomes revealed that RT had no effect on shoulder pain and ROM.