Changes in Pain Intensity in Patients with Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS) Following the Use of Kinesiology and McConnell Taping with McConnell Method

Abstract

Introduction: Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is one of the most common causes of knee pain and patellar taping is one of the best treatment methods for it. Thus, the aim of this study was to compare the changes in pain intensity in patients with patellofemoral pain syndrome following the use of kinesiology and McConnell taping with McConnell method. Materials and Methods: 36 patients with patellofemoral pain syndrome were divided to three subgroups. Subjects in control group were instructed to perform exercises at home without applying any tape for 6 weeks. For the first group, in addition to exercises, McConnell tape was attached over the affected patellar region. For the second group, in addition to exercises, kinesiology taping was attached as mentioned in the first group. Pain level was assessed at baseline and the end of treatment. Results: Within group comparison showed the pain intensity decreased significantly following a period of treatment in 3 groups (P = 0.001 for three groups). Between the groups comparison showed significant difference between McConnell and exercise groups with control group (P = 0.001). But no difference was observed (P ˃ 0.017) between the McConnell and kinesiology groups (P = 0.043) and kinesiology and control groups (P = 0.022). Conclusion: It seems that kinesiology tape is effective in pain relief like McConnell tape and method.