Acute Effects of Dynamic and Kinesiology Taping on Balance and Kinesthesia of the Lower Limbs in Healthy Adults
Trial Snapshot
- Phase
- Not Applicable
- Status
- Completed
- Sponsor
- University of Primorska
- Enrollment
- 24
- Locations
- 1
- Primary Endpoint
- Mean Velocity of Center of Pressure During Single-Leg Stance [mm/s]
Study Overview
Brief Summary
This study aims to investigate the acute effects of dynamic tape (DT) and kinesiology tape (KT) on balance and kinesthesia of the lower limbs in healthy young adults. Participants will undergo assessments of static balance and knee joint position sense before and after the application of each taping condition. The study seeks to determine whether DT or KT can provide immediate improvements in postural stability and proprioceptive accuracy.
Detailed Description
Taping techniques are commonly used in rehabilitation and sports settings to support joint function, reduce pain, and improve proprioception. Dynamic tape (DT) and kinesiology tape (KT) differ in their mechanical properties and proposed mechanisms of action. While KT is elastic and mimics the properties of skin, DT offers higher elasticity and resistance, potentially providing enhanced mechanical support and proprioceptive feedback.
Although several studies have explored the effects of taping on balance and proprioception, direct comparisons between DT and KT, particularly when applied to both the ankle and knee joints, remain limited. This study seeks to address this gap by examining and comparing the immediate effects of DT and KT on static balance and kinesthesia of the lower limbs in healthy adults.
The findings may contribute to a better understanding of the clinical relevance of different taping methods and inform decision-making in preventive and therapeutic interventions targeting lower limb stability and proprioception.
Study Design
- Study Type
- Interventional
- Allocation
- Randomized
- Intervention Model
- Crossover
- Primary Purpose
- Prevention
- Masking
- Single (Outcomes Assessor)
Eligibility Criteria
- Ages
- 18 Years to 45 Years (Adult)
- Sex
- All
- Accepts Healthy Volunteers
- Yes
Inclusion Criteria
- •Healthy adults aged 18-30 years
- •No current pain or injury affecting the lower limbs
- •Willingness to participate and provide informed consent
- •No known allergy or sensitivity to adhesive materials
Exclusion Criteria
- •History of ankle sprain or anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury
- •Any lower limb injury in the past 3 months
- •Neurological or vestibular disorders affecting balance
- •Skin conditions or wounds at the taping sites
- •Participation in balance or proprioception training programs in the past month
Arms & Interventions
Kinesiology tape
Kinesiology tape (KT) applied to the knee and ankle
Intervention: Kinesiology Tape (Device)
Dynamic tape
Dynamic tape (DT) applied to the knee and ankle
Intervention: Dynamic tape (Device)
Outcomes
Primary Outcomes
Mean Velocity of Center of Pressure During Single-Leg Stance [mm/s]
Time Frame: Immediately before and within 10 minutes after tape application (per condition)
Mean velocity of the CoP will be measured during the 30-second single-leg stance using a force plate. The outcome will be compared across the no tape, kinesiology tape, and dynamic tape conditions.
Sway Amplitude of Center of Pressure During Single-Leg Stance [mm]
Time Frame: Immediately before and within 10 minutes after tape application (per condition)
During the same 30-second single-leg stance test, the sway amplitude of the CoP will be recorded using a force plate. This outcome will be used to evaluate changes in postural control across taping conditions.
Secondary Outcomes
- Knee Joint Kinesthesia [°](Immediately before and within 10 minutes after tape application (per condition))
Investigators
Žiga Kozinc
Assistant professor
University of Primorska