Effects of Functional Kinesio Taping on Subacromial Space in Athletes With Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy

The Effects of Functional Kinesio Taping on Subacromial Space in Athletes With Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy

To determine the effects of functional kinesio taping on subacromial space in athletes with rotator cuff tendinopathy.

Subacromial impingement is a condition among athletes those involved in overhead sports activities such as swimming and volleyball. According to Neer there are two main categories of shoulder impingement, these are structural and functional. Structural: caused by reduction of the subacromial space (SAS) due to bony growth, calcification or soft tissue inflammation whereas functional is caused by or superior migration of the humeral head due to muscular weakness imbalance. In some cases subacromial impingement can be result from a combination of both structural and functional factors.Maintenance of the SAS during arm elevation is thus essential for the prevention of Rotator cuff tendinopathy.

The aim of this randomized controlled trial (RCT) is to evaluate the long-term effects of scapular KT, added to a 6-week rehabilitation program, on the subacromial space at different arm positions in athletes with Rotator cuff tendinopathy. To better understand the underlying mechanisms of KT, our secondary objective addressed the effects of KT on reliving pain-free and full ROM of shoulder joint.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age between 18 to 35 years
• Both gender
• Athletes participating in volley ball, tennis, badminton and golf.
• Presence of shoulder pain in abduction and external rotation during training for more than three months
• Three out of five positive results for the following: painful arc, pain or weakness with resisted external rotation, abduction, Neer test, Hawkins Kennedy test, empty can test/Jobe test

Exclusion Criteria:

• H/O shoulder fractures,
• Instability or dislocation (positive apprehension and relocation tests)
• Frozen shoulder (All stages)
• Recent shoulder surgery for a shoulder injury