Acute Effects of Kinesiology Taping Stretch Tensions on Soleus and Gastrocnemius H-Reflex Modulations

Abstract

This study examined the acute effects of stretch tensions of kinesiology taping (KT) on the soleus (SOL), medial (MG), and lateral (LG) gastrocnemius Hoffmann-reflex (H-reflex) modulation in physically active healthy adults. A cross-over within-subject design was used in this study. Twelve physically active collegiate students voluntarily participated in the study (age = 21.3 ± 1.2 years; height = 175.6 ± 7.1 cm; body weight = 69.9 ± 7.1 kg). A standard Y-shape of KT technique was applied to the calf muscles. The KT was controlled in three tension intensities in a randomised order: paper-off, 50%, and 100% of maximal stretch tension of the tape. The peak-to-peak amplitude of maximal M-wave (Mmax) and H-reflex (Hmax) responses in the SOL, MG, and LG muscles were assessed before taping (pre-taping), taping, and after taping (post-taping) phases in the lying prone position. The results demonstrated significantly larger LG Hmax responses in the pre-taping condition than those in the post-taping condition during paper-off KT (p = 0.002). Moreover, the ΔHmax/Mmax of pre- and post-taping in the SOL muscle was significantly larger during 50%KT tension than that of paper-off (p = 0.046). In conclusion, the stretch tension of KT contributes minor influence on the spinal motoneuron excitability in the triceps surae during rest.

Immediate effects of elastic tape application on the foot sole: a randomized controlled trial

“…Finally, this study did not explore the physiological mechanisms underlying the observed increase in DFA. Previous studies have examined factors such as changes in skin blood flow 22 ) and the excitability of motor neurons 23 ) in relation to elastic tape application; however, these factors were not investigated in this study. In addition, the impact of physiological phenomena represented by the alpha-gamma linkage and the axon reflex on the intraweight muscle should also be considered.…”

The Time-Based Effects of Kinesio Taping on Acute-Onset Muscle Soreness and Calf Muscle Extensibility among Endurance Athletes: A Randomized Cross-Over Trial

“…However, recent work conducted by Chen et. al on the triceps surae muscle during both lying and standing postures indicates that the change in intensity of tension of the KT does not have much effect on the spinal motor neuron excitability; therefore, in terms of modifying sensory-motor activity, the tension applied during a KT application should not be an issue [ 14 , 15 ].…”