Kinesio Taping for Muscle Strength after ACL-Repair

Case Study Full Name: Effects of Kinesio Taping® on Muscle Strength after ACL-Repair By: Heather M. Murray, PhD, PT, University of New Mexico   The purpose: The purpose of this study is to compare the effects of Kinesio Taping® versus athletic tape on muscle strength in the quadriceps femoris, hamstring and anterior tibialis muscles of the lower extremity in individuals with recent ACL reconstruction.   Conclusions: In this preliminary study, it was found that Kinesio® Tape applied to the anterior aspect of the thigh could significantly enhance the joint active range of motion and that this increase is correlated with an increase in surface EMG of the muscles of the anterior compartment of the thigh, the quadriceps femoris muscle. It is not known as this time if the effects demonstrated in this study are mediated by skin mechanoreceptors. Nor is it known if the enhanced muscular contraction noted shortly after application of Kinesio® Tape would be sustained after a prolonged period. These and other questions need to be addressed in further research efforts.