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Effects of Dynamic and Kinesiology Taping on Balance and Kinesthesia in Healthy Adults

Not Applicable
Completed
Conditions
Dynamic Tape
Kinesiology Taping
Registration Number
NCT06942585
Lead Sponsor
University of Primorska
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.

Recruitment & Eligibility

Status
COMPLETED
Sex
All
Target Recruitment
24
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

Study & Design

Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Study Design
CROSSOVER
Primary Outcome Measures
NameTimeMethod
Mean Velocity of Center of Pressure During Single-Leg Stance [mm/s]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]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 Outcome Measures
NameTimeMethod
Knee Joint Kinesthesia [°]Immediately before and within 10 minutes after tape application (per condition)

Kinesthesia will be assessed using a passive-to-active joint position reproduction test with a digital goniometer (EasyAngle). Participants will attempt to replicate a reference knee flexion angle (45°) with eyes closed. The absolute angular error (in degrees) between the target and reproduced position will be calculated. Measurements will be compared across the no tape, kinesiology tape, and dynamic tape conditions to evaluate the acute effects of taping on proprioceptive accuracy.

Trial Locations

Locations (1)

University of Primorska, Faculty of Health Sciences, Izola

🇸🇮

Izola, Slovenia

University of Primorska, Faculty of Health Sciences, Izola
🇸🇮Izola, Slovenia
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