The Effects of Kinesio® Tape on Neck Pain and Disability

The Effects of Kinesio® Tape on Neck Pain and Disability

This study is a within-subjects design; therefore, the participant will serve as their own control. Participants will be included in the study if they have neck pain or disability defined by a score of more than 14 on the Neck Disability Index. They will be excluded if they have any diagnosed disc pathology. A mask-associated pain questionnaire will be completed by the participants prior to the study to determine their perceived effect of mask-wearing on neck pain. This questionnaire is adapted from the HAPPE study on mask-associated headache pain. A baseline pain rating will be recorded a numerical pain scale. Next, active cervical range of motion will be measured, three times in each direction to be averaged. A pain rating will be recorded for pain during cervical motion. Kinesio® Tape will be applied to activate the cervical extensor muscles. The participant will sit with the tape on for 20 minutes, then active cervical range of motion and pain will be recored again.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Neck Disability Index Score of more than 14

Exclusion Criteria:

• cervical disc pathology or injury
• previous neck surgery
• prior history of general medical conditions involving joints, muscles, bones or connective tissue such as fibromyalgia, osteoporosis, etc.
• an NDI score of less than 14 or more than 24
• reported allergies to Kinesio® Tex Tape or any other adhesive material
• any contraindications for the usage of Kinesio® Tape