Effect of Kinesio Taping on Pain, Active Range of Motion, Swelling, Quadriceps Strength and Arthrogenic Inhibition in Women with Knee Osteoarthritis

Knee osteoarthritis is one of the most common musculo-skeletal disorders that can affect patient's independency in their daily activities. Quadriceps weakness, a common problem in these patients, has been attributed to Arthrogenic muscle inhibition. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of kinesio tape (KT) on muscle strength, quadriceps arthrogenic inhibition, pain, swelling, and active range of motion in women with knee OA. A total of 20 patients diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis received KT for 24 hours. Quadriceps Strength (MVC), Central Activation Ratio (CAR), pain, knee range of motion, and edema were measured before and after application of KT. Applying Kinesio tape significantly increased Quadriceps strength (MVC), central activation ratio, and range of motion and decreased pain (P<0.001). No significant effect was identified for knee joint edema (P>0.05). Application of therapeutic KT is effective in improving Quadriceps strength (MVC), removing the arthrogenic inhibition, increasing range of motion, and reducing pain in patients with knee osteoarthritis.