Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation Kinesio Taping Improves Range of Motion of Ankle Dorsiflexion and Balance Ability in Chronic Stroke Patients

Abstract

This study aimed to determine the effect of a proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) pattern Kinesio taping (KT) application on the ankle dorsiflexion range of motion (DF-ROM) and balance ability in patients with chronic stroke. This crossover study included 18 patients with stroke. The subjects were randomly assigned to three interventions: barefoot, ankle KT (A-KT), and PNF-KT. The A-KT was applied to the gastrocnemius and tibialis anterior (TA) muscles, and subtalar eversion. The PNF-KT was applied on the extensor hallucis, extensor digitorum, and TA muscles. DR-ROM was measured using the iSen™, a wearable sensor. Balance ability was assessed based on static balance, measured by the Biodex Balance System (BBS), and dynamic balance, measured by the timed up and go (TUG) test and dynamic gait index (DGI). Compared with the barefoot and A-KT interventions, PNF-KT showed significant improvements in the ankle DF-ROM and BBS scores, TUG, and DGI. PNF-KT, for functional muscle synergy, improved the ankle DF-ROM and balance ability in patients with chronic stroke. Therefore, the application of PNF-KT may be a feasible therapeutic method for improving ankle movement and balance in patients with chronic stroke. Additional research is recommended to identify the long-term effects of the PNF-KT.

Effects of kinesio taping therapy on gait and surface electromyography in stroke patients with hemiplegia

“…The combination of gait analysis and SEMG can quantitatively evaluate the amount of rehabilitation experienced by patients and thus provide an objective reference for rehabilitation programs (Zhu et al, 2019;Peishun et al, 2021). Moreover, we observed improvement in the stability of the ankle joint and improvement of the high tension of the extensor muscle when walking using a taping formula based on the plasticity theory of the central nervous system (Park and Bae, 2021). As such, continuous sensory input was similar to the continuous correction of deviation by a therapist (Hu et al, 2019).…”

“…Moreover, we observed improvement in the stability of the ankle joint and improvement of the high tension of the extensor muscle when walking using a taping formula based on the plasticity theory of the central nervous system ( Park and Bae, 2021 ). As such, continuous sensory input was similar to the continuous correction of deviation by a therapist ( Hu et al, 2019 ).…”

“…AFO exert limited effects on walking ability due to increased fatigue and restricted ankle movement ( Prenton et al, 2018 ). In contrast, KT has long been used to strengthen weakened muscles, control muscle tone, improve the active range of motion, balance, functional use, and gait ability as a cost-effective treatment ( Park and Bae, 2021 ). Despite the different treatments available, the mechanisms underlying lower limb muscle activation in stroke patients associated with falls warrants further study.…”

Effects of Taping on Lower Limb Function in Stroke Patients: A Literature Review

“…A study that assessed the effectiveness of KT on the reduction of plantar flexor spasticity in stroke patients concluded that it was ineffective (11) , whereas other studies found that tibialis anterior taping helped improve walking ability, motor recovery, spasticity, speed, forward reach, displacement of the center of pressure, and ambulation and aerobic capacity in patients with stroke (16,17,18) . Another study assessed the effectiveness of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation along with KT and found it effective in improving walking and balance ability in stroke (19) . The major limitations noted among these studies were a small sample size, thus leading to a lack of generalizability, and a short study duration (10)(11)(12)(13)(14)(15)(16)(17)(18)(19) .…”

Effects of Extensor Digitorum Longus and Tibialis Anterior Taping on Balance and Gait Performance in Patients Post Stroke

“…We found no difference in balance performance between the two groups; however, balance significantly improved after taping. The taping method to improve dorsiflexion increases the range of motion of the dorsiflexion joint, so static balance can be improved [ 18 , 37 ]. Facilitation of muscle activity through taping reduces the center of pressure movement and maintains a standing position [ 38 ].…”