The effects of Kinesio taping-combined exercise on the balance and gait ability of hemiplegic patients

Abstract

Purpose: This study aims to investigate the effect of the Kinesio taping method on the balance ability and gait ability of hemiplegic stroke patients by applying it to the lower extremities of the ankle on the affected side, addressing instability and asymmetry by improving the stability of the muscles and ankle joint. Methods: This study confirmed the general characteristics of hemiplegic patients diagnosed with stroke. Kinesio taping was applied to the lower extremities of 15 subjects in the experimental group, and they performed mat and treadmill exercises. In addition, basic mat and treadmill exercises were performed by the 15 subjects in the control group. The exercise regimens were performed 18 times: three times a week for six weeks. Results: In the paired-sample T-test used for within-group comparison of BBS, TUG and stance time on nonparetic side value, there was a significant difference between pre- and post-test for experimental group. However, in the control group, there was a statistically significant difference only in TUG. In the inter-group comparison, the experimental group showed a statistically significant improvement in BBS, TUG and stance time on nonparetic side value compared to the control group. Conclusion: The experiment’s results demonstrate that the application of Kinesio taping-combined exercise provides stability of the muscles and ankle joints of the lower extremities during walking by improving balance ability, and improves overall gait stability by increasing the stance phase time of the affected side in hemiplegic stroke patients.