The effects of Kinesio taping on pain intensity and soft tissue mechanical properties in non-specific low back pain.

Abstract

Objective:To assess the effects of Kinesio Taping (KT), with or without tension, and post-isometric muscle relaxation (PIR) on pain intensity and the mechanical properties of myofascial tissues in chronic low back pain (LBP) patients. Material and methods: Study participants (n = 64), aged 20 to 60, were randomly assigned to one of the three intervention groups. The numerical rating scale (NRS) assessed pain intensity at rest, and the MyotonPRO© measured tension, stiffness, and relaxation in the erector spinae on both sides of the lumbar spine. The examinations were undertaken before the intervention, post-interventions, and at a seven-day follow-up. Results: Pain level was reduced for all groups (F (4, 116) = 39.2010, p < 0.01). In addition, post hoc analysis of the KT group showed significant increases in the tension and stiffness of the erector spinae and significantly decreased relaxation between the pre-intervention and follow-up measurements, but only on the non-dominant side (p < 0.01). Conclusions: KT with or without tape tension and PIR had similar effects in decreasing the level of resting pain, though there were no intergroup differences in the numerical pain scale or selected mechanical properties. Asymmetries in myofascial tissue between sides of the spine have occurred, it can be concluded that the interventions were insufficient to restore normal function in soft tissue.