Effect of Thoraco-Lumbar Fascia Kinesiotaping as a Therapeutic Intervention for Pain and Functional Disability in Non Specific Low Back Pain-A Pilot Study

Abstract

The objective of the study was to compare the short-term effect of thoraco-lumbar fascia kinesio-tape on pain and function in patients with non-specific low back pain. It was a pilot experimental controlled trial. Individuals with non-specific low back pain were recruited from Physiotherapy OPD of SGT Hospital. Forty participants with non-specific low back pain were randomly divided into either Group A (Fascial Taping group, n=20) which is the intervention group or Group B (Conventional group n = 20). The intervention group was treated with Thoraco-lumbar fascial taping and spinal exercises along with hot pack while the conventional group was treated with spinal exercises and hot pack. Both groups received treatment for 3 days a week for 4 weeks. Pain was assessed using Numeric Pain Rating Scale and Functional limitation was assessed using Modified Oswestry Disability Index at baseline, at the end of 4th week. The results showed that the Kinesio taping group demonstrated significantly greater reduction in pain compared to control group after the 4-week intervention (p<0.01, 95% confidence interval). There was also a significant difference in functional level in the Kinesio taping group compared to conventional group as measured by Modified Oswestry Disability Index (p<0.001). From the results of the study it can be concluded that Thoraco-lumbar Fascia Taping reduced pain in patients with non-specific low back pain during the treatment phase. Significant differences in functions were also observed.