Kinesio Taping in Subjects With Myofascial Pain Syndrome: a Randomized Controlled Trial

Kinesio Taping on Short Term Changes in Subjects With Myofascial Pain Syndrome: a Randomized Controlled Trial

Musculoskeletal dysfunction is considered as a major public health problem affecting about one third of the adult population. Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) characterized by myofacial trigger points as well as fascia tenderness are thought to be the main cause of musculoskeletal dysfunction. The aim of the treatment for musculoskeletal dysfunction is to reduce pain and restore normal function. Clinically, some evidence supports the application of kinesio tape in these patients. The underlying mechanism, however, is not clear. The investigators goal was to validate proposed mechanism of kinesio tape in these patients. The primary outcome are muscle stiffness, pain intensity and sensitivity.

Inclusion Criteria:

• age between 20 and 60 years
• shoulder or neck pain corresponding with the area covered by the upper trapezius muscle
• Trigger point (taut band) in the upper trapezius muscle

Exclusion Criteria:

• diagnosis of fibromyalgia syndrome
• having undergone myofascial therapy within the past month before the study
• history of cervical spine or shoulder surgery
• previous history of a whiplash injury;
• diagnosis of cervical radiculopathy or myelopathy;
• taking medicine that might change the pain intensity or pain threshold, such as analgesics, sedatives, substance abuse (including alcohol, narcotics);
• a cognitive impairment that would prevent them from being able to understand and/or participate fully in the intervention or the measures.