Effects of Kinesio Taping on Upper Extremity Pain

Case Study Full Name: Effects of Kinesio Taping on Posture and Presence of Upper Extremity Pain By: Heather M.Murray, Ph.D, P.T.   Purpose: The purpose of this study is to determine the effects of Kinesio® Tex taping of the rhomboid muscles on retraction of the scapula in normal sitting and standing postures.   Discussion and Conclusions: The results of this study indicate that, at least in a small sample of subjects, Kinesio Tex Tape can be used to enhance scapular retraction. The study also indicated that application of Kinesio Tex tape  over the rhomboid and pectoralis muscles can significantly after subject's upper extremity and shoulder discomfort probably due to changes in position of the scapula. These results indicate that taping for posterior and anterior musculature may alleviate upper extremity discomfort caused by downward shift of the humeral head with internal rotation of the shoulder, especially when the scapula is in a protracted position. The results of the study strongly suggest that further investigation of the effects of Kinesio Tex tape on scapular position and postural re-education is warranted in a larger group of subjects