Different kinesio taping tensions present similar benefits for postural control, dynamic balance, agility and instability sensation in individuals with chronic ankle instability: randomized clinical trial

Abstract

Ankle sprain is the most common injury in the lower limbs of physically active individuals, and one of its complications is chronic ankle instability (CAI), for which Kinesio Taping (KT) can be an alternative treatment. The aim of this study was to compare two treatment protocols with KT at different tensions on postural control, dynamic balance, agility and instability in individuals with chronic ankle instability. This is a randomized clinical trial in which postural control was evaluated through the force platform, agility by the side Hop Test, dynamic balance by the modified Star Excursion balance Test, and application of the Cumberland Ankle Tool Instability and Foot and Ankle Outcome Score to assess self-reported instability and functional instability. An initial assessment was conducted, followed by 5 weeks of intervention with weekly applications of KT, and one week after the completion of the intervention, a reassessment was performed. 21 participants were distributed to the group KT with tension (KTT: n=11) and the group KT without tension (KTWT: n=10). KT improves postural control (anteroposterior velocity: p=0.006 and mediolateral: p<0.001; anteroposterior frequency: p<0.001 and mediolateral: p=0.043 of the area of the center of pressure), dynamic balance (p< 0.001), agility (p=0.001) and feeling of instability in individuals with ICT (p=0.001) for both groups. Only one variable, sports category of the FAOS-FOOT questionnaire showed significant change (p=0.008). KT, with or without tension, is able to improve postural control, balanced balance, postural control, and feelings of instability in young adults with ICT.