The effect of trunk kinesio taping on static and dynamic balance and functional mobility in children with cerebral palsy

Abstract

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a non-progressive neurological disease that causes the loss of normal motor function. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of trunk kinesio taping on static and dynamic balance and functional mobility in children with CP. In an experimental study with pre-test and post-test, 38 children with spastic CP were randomly divided into intervention (n = 19) and control (n = 19) groups. In the intervention group, kinesio taping was applied on the thoracic and lumbar regions. Taping was employed in control group in a sham mode. Berg balance scale (BBS), forward functional reach (FFR), and timed up and go (TUG) tests were used prior to taping application, immediately, 2 days after taping application, and 2 days after removed kinesio tape. Results showed a significant increase in BBS (P < 0.001) and TUG (P < 0.001) short time after application and after remove of taping in the intervention group. However, non-significant changes perceived in BBS (P = 0.58), FFR (P = 0.32), and TUG (P = 0.32) immediately after application of kinesio taping in intervention group. No significant change has been observed in the control group in any different interval application. According to the results of this study, kinesio taping seems to be effective in improving dynamic balance and functional mobility in children with spastic CP. Therefore, kinesio taping can be used in the neurorehabilitation of CP as a complementary therapy.