Efficiency of Kinesio Taping in Chronic Lateral Epicondylitis

Evaluation of Short-term and Residual Effects of Kinesio Taping in Chronic Lateral Epicondylitis: A Randomized, Double-blinded, Controlled Trial

Lateral epicondylitis is a degenerative tendinosis of the extensor carpi radialis brevis muscle and is the most common work/sports-related chronic musculoskeletal problem affecting the elbow. This randomized, double-blinded, controlled study aimed to evaluate the short term and residual effectiveness of the Kinesio taping method on pain, grip force, quality of life, and functionality.

Fifty patients diagnosed with chronic unilateral lateral epicondylitis with a symptom duration of at least 12 weeks. The study group received a true inhibitor Kinesio taping while the control group received sham taping for the first four weeks. In both groups, progressive stretching and strengthening exercises were given as a home program for 6 weeks. Patients were assessed with the numerical rating scale (NRS), Cyriax resistive muscle test evaluation, maximal grip strength, PRTEE (Patient- Rated Tennis Elbow Evaluation), and SF-36 (Short Form-36) by the first assessor who was blinded to taping types.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Having pain on or near the lateral epicondyle and increases with pain at least one of the following provocations tests for lateral epicondylitis -resisted wrist extension (Cozen's test), resisted elbow supination (Mill's test) and 3rd finger extension (Maudley's test),
• Unilateral elbow pain at least 12 weeks,
• Not received injection therapy to the elbow in the last six weeks,
• Not received a physical therapy program in the last three months,
• Presence of normal elbow radiographic findings,
• Normal elbow joint range of motion,
• Having no neurological deficits

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients with degenerative joint disease,
• Radial tunnel syndrome,
• Cervical nerve root compression,
• Pain reflected from the neck, shoulders,
• Wrist, radiohumeral joint osteochondritis dissecans,
• Tendon rupture,
• Osteoporosis, Infection,
• Malignancy,
• Inflammatory disease,
• Pregnant women