TENS and Taping for Older People

Acute Effects of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation and Kinesio Taping on Lower Limb Joint Proprioception, Static Standing Balance, Limits of Stability and Functional Balance Performance in Community-dwelling Older Adults

Aim: To examine the acute effects of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) and Kinesio Taping (KT) on lower limb joint proprioception, static standing balance, limits of stability and functional balance performance in community-dwelling older adults.

Design: A one-group experimental study with a repeated-measures design. Sample: 24+ community-dwelling older adults Interventions: TENS and KT, TENS and sham taping, KT and sham TENS, and sham TENS and sham taping (30 minutes each) Major outcomes: Outcomes will be evaluated during each of the intervention conditions. Lower limb joint active repositioning error will be evaluated using a joint position sense test; a force platform will be used to assess the single-leg standing body sway path length and velocity; a functional reach test will give a score that reflects the limits of stability of the participants; and the timed up-and-go test will be used to quantify functional balance performance of the participants.

Anticipated results and significance: It is predicted that both TENS and KT, when applied together, may best improve lower limb joint proprioception and facilitate all balance performances among the community-dwelling older adults. These interventions could be applied in clinical settings to improve joint proprioception and postural control of the elderly people.

Inclusion criteria:

• Between 60 and 75 years old
• Able to ambulate independently and safely without using any walking aid
• Able to follow instructions

Exclusion criteria:

• Known unstable medical condition (e.g., uncontrolled hypertension)
• Known sensorimotor or neurological disorders (e.g., stroke and epilepsy)
• Significant musculoskeletal disorder of the lower limbs (e.g., osteoarthritis of the knee)
• Cognitive disorder
• Presence of an implanted electrical device (e.g., cardiac pacemaker)
• Cancer
• A change in skin sensation
• Wound around the lower limb joints
• A recent injury that may affect test performance
• Allergy to adhesive tapes