Investigating the immediate and short-term effects of a kinesiology tape application on work-related lower limb pain

Abstract

Introduction and Aim: Lower limb discomfort at work is a prevalent problem that many employees in a variety of industries face. Kinesiology tape is a widely used modality for managing musculoskeletal pain and is commonly applied to the lower limb area. This study aims to investigate the short- and immediate-term benefits of using kinesiology tape for work-related lower limb pain. Materials and Methods: A total of 50 employees with lower limb pain associated with their job were randomised into two groups: one for the application of kinesiology tape and the other for control. The kinesiology tape application group received a kinesiology tape application on the affected lower limb area, while the control group received a placebo tape application. At baseline, immediately following the application, and one week later, the immediate and short-term effects of the tape application were assessed using measures of range of motion (ROM), functional capacity assessments, and the use of a visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain. Results: The results of the study showed that the kinesiology tape application group had a significantly higher acute pain reduction (p < 0.05) than the control group. The kinesiology tape application group performed better than the control group at the one-week follow-up in terms of improvement in measures of functional capacity and range of motion (p < 0.05). Conclusion: In conclusion, this randomized controlled trial provided evidence supporting the immediate and short-term effectiveness of a kinesiology tape application on work-related lower limb pain.