Comparing the Effectiveness of Kinesio Taping and Knee Orthosis in Patients with Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome: a Randomized Controlled Study

Patients were divided into 3 groups as patellofemoral knee orthosis group, kinesio taping group and control group. Randomization of group allocation was done using the website "https://www.randomizer.org\". Patients were unaware of the other group's treatment program and group allocation. All participants signed an informed consent form before the study. The primary outcome measure of our study was the Kujala Score, and the secondary outcome measures were the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), Visual Analog Scale (VAS), quadriceps and hamstring isokinetic muscle strength. The evaluations were performed before and after treatment. All patients were informed about the disease and treatment process before treatment. Patients were informed about the things they should pay attention to for pain management in daily life activities and suggestions were made. In addition, all patients received at least 2 weeks of NSAID treatment by the orthopedist. A progressive exercise program was applied to all treatment groups. The progressive exercise program was continued under the supervision of a physiotherapist 2 days a week for 6 weeks. The progressive exercise program consisted of strengthening exercises for the muscles around the knee and hip, stretching exercises for the hamstring and gastrosoleus muscles. The knee orthosis group received the OrthoCare® 6158 Genucare Luxa knee orthosis. T-max Kinesiology Tape® (Tmax Medical Co., South Korea) brand kinesio tape was used in all patients. In kinesio tape application, 2 Y-shaped tapes were used. The activation technique was applied to the VMO muscle with the first band. In the second band, mechanical correction technique was applied to the patella.