Effect of Kinesio Tape on Scapular Kinematics in Subjects With Scapular Dyskinesis

Abstract

Introduction: Scapular dyskinesis is an abnormality in scapula static or dynamic position. There are several techniques for scapular dyskinesis conservative treatment, including Kinesio Tape application, which is used to promote and support scapula joint alignment, decrease pain and improve local muscle control. Objective. To investigate the effect of kinesio tape on scapular kinematics in subjects with scapular dyskinesis. Methods. Fourteen subjects with scapular dyskinesis performed flexion and scaption movements in two conditions: (1) without load and (2) holding a dumbbell. A scapular tape was applied over the lower trapezius (Y shaped) muscle with a 20% tension. Kinematic data were captured with 10 infrared cameras and analyzed based on Euler angles, peak values of upward rotation, internal rotation, and posterior tilt angles. To compare the situations with and without kinesio tape the repeated measures two-way ANOVAs (? = 0.05) was performed using SPSS software. Results. Scapular tape increase upward rotation and posterior tilt during flexion of the shoulder. No interaction (Load x KT) was found during flexion, suggesting that KT effect in the peak values is the same, regardless the load condition. Scapular tape decreases internal rotation during scaption and a significant interaction was found between load x KT, suggesting the effect of using KT could depend the load used during this movement. Conclusions. The results suggest that kinesio tape may can be use as assistant to increase upward rotation, posterior tilt and decrease internal rotation in scapular dyskinesis subjects.