Immediate Effects of Kinesio Taping in Primary Dysmenorrhea

The Immediate Effect of Kinesio Taping on Pain, Menstrual Symptoms, Fear of Movement, and Sleep Quality in Primary Dysmenorrhea: A Randomized Sham-Controlled Trial

Primary dysmenorrhea is characterized by recurrent, cramping lower abdominal pain during menstruation and affects approximately 50% to 90% of women. The etiology of primary dysmenorrhea involves the increased release of prostaglandins and other inflammatory mediators, which cause uterine contractions and reduced blood flow. In addition to pharmacological approaches, non-pharmacological methods also play an important role in the treatment of dysmenorrhea.

Kinesio taping helps relieve pain by reducing pressure on the muscle and supports treatment through various application techniques. It improves local circulation, reduces muscle tension, and alleviates symptoms of primary dysmenorrhea.

The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of kinesio taping on pain, menstrual symptoms, fear of movement, and sleep quality in women with primary dysmenorrhea, and to compare the outcomes with those of a sham taping group.

The hypothesis is that kinesio taping will be more effective than sham taping in improving these parameters in women with primary dysmenorrhea.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Being a nulliparous woman aged between 18 and 24 years
• Having a diagnosis of primary dysmenorrhea confirmed by a physician,
• Being literate
• Cooperating in completing the assessment scales
• Scoring one or above on the Weissman Scale
• Agreeing to participate in the study
• Having regular menstruation in the last 6 months
• Being willing and voluntary to participate in the research.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Having a diagnosis of secondary dysmenorrhea
• Using contraceptive pills
• Having a history of childbirth or pregnancy
• Having irregular menstrual cycles (menstrual cycle length less than 21 days or longer than 35 days)
• Having any pelvic pathology or history of pelvic surgery
• Having gastrointestinal, urogynecological, autoimmune, psychiatric, neurological diseases, or other chronic pain syndromes.