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. 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 Assuming that the lack of asymmetry in muscle tension, stiffness, and relaxation is a normative value, it can be interpreted that the applied interventions were insufficient. As such, KT should be considered a complementary method of pain reduction in conjunction with conventional physiotherapy in LBP patients.