Kinesiology taping as an adjunct for pain management: A review of literature and evidence

The potential value of kinesio taping for the management of nonspecific low back pain

“…They have been developed in order to improve the ability of performing routine activities ("Activities of Daily Living" -ADL), quality of life, as well as in order to reduce pain and to teach patients how to manage their pain [9,36]. Pharmacologic therapies are the main treatment type for acute lower back pain and consist of prescription analgesics, notwithstanding their adverse effects [31,37]. The most widely used drugs in the treatment of lower back pain are analgesics and NSAIDs, opioids, corticosteroids, muscle relaxants, anticonvulsants, and antidepressants.…”

“…Apart from the aforementioned treatment options, which have proven a moderate efficacy, the "European Guidelines for the Management of Chronic Lower Back Pain" also recommend educational or cognitive-behavioral programs [40,44,45]. As stated by Hoffman A.J., the "World Health Organization" recommends a series of cheap and easy to use methods, such as patient education and self-treatment techniques, that allow patients a better control over the treatment of pain, with better and longer lasting results [31,46]. In the last years, one of the frequently used therapeutic interventions for the preventions and treatment of sports injuries, and for different clinical entities, including lower back pain, is the taping method [27,47].…”

“…Gaskin D.J. estimate that the financial burden given by lower back pain is higher than the annual costs with heart disease, cancer, and diabetes [30,31]. Approximately 20% of the direct costs related to this pathology are represented by physiotherapy, prescription drugs, and other healthcare fundamentals, while the rest of the money is spent indirectly through work absenteeism and loss of productivity [32,33].…”

“…Approximately 20% of the direct costs related to this pathology are represented by physiotherapy, prescription drugs, and other healthcare fundamentals, while the rest of the money is spent indirectly through work absenteeism and loss of productivity [32,33]. At this point in time medical doctors recommend for the treatment of lower back pain, apart from traditional treatment methods, the kinesio taping method, which is an application of adhesive taping, invented by Kenzo Kase [31,34]. The present study finds its aim in giving a general view on the uses of kinesio taping (KT) in clinical practice, as well as offering an overview of the literature data on the potential beneficial effects of KT in the treatment of lower back pain.…”

Temporomandibular joint dysfunction and physiotherapy: direction through a case report

“…Kinesio taping is known to activate mechanoreceptors leading to a reduction in pain, activation of muscles and efficient drainage of lymphatic fluid. 8 Literature suggests dry needling targets trigger points and has short term and immediate improvement in pain. 6 Exercises suggested during the treatment aimed at improving the ROM and strength of the masseter and pterygoid muscles.…”