The Effect of Different Kinesio Taping Methods on Grip Strength in Healthy Subjects

Abstract

Introduction: Reduced grip strength (GS) during daily activities can lead to numerous problems, making the strengthening of relevant muscles a primary goal in rehabilitation. One effective method to enhance GS is the use of kinesio tape (KT). This study aims to compare the effects of different KT application methods on GS.

Methods: In this quasi-experimental study, 30 healthy individuals of both genders, with an average age of 24.57 ± 3.92 years, were selected using simple non-random sampling. Over five consecutive days, with 48-hour intervals, participants received different KT applications on the extensor region of the forearm. These methods included: I-shaped from origin to insertion, I-shaped from insertion to origin, Y-shaped from origin to insertion, Y-shaped from insertion to origin, and a control group with no KT application. GS was measured using a dynamometer before and immediately after applying the KT.

Results: The findings indicated that all KT methods, both I-shaped and Y-shaped, significantly increased GS (p<0.001). There was a significant difference between the KT methods and the control group (p<0.001). However, no significant difference was found between the various I-shaped methods (p>0.05) or between the different Y-shaped methods (p>0.05). Notably, there was a significant difference between the I-shaped and Y-shaped methods in both directions, with the I-shaped method showing a greater increase in GS compared to the Y-shaped method (p<0.001).

Conclusion: All KT application methods effectively increase GS. Therefore, any of these methods can be utilized based on the therapist's and patient's preferences when KT is needed to enhance GS. However, it should be noted that applying KT using the I-shaped method, from the origin to the insertion in the forearm extensor region, has the greatest impact on increasing GS.