Effectiveness of Kinesiologic Taping and Dry Needling in the Treatment of Subacromial Pain Syndrome

The Comparison of the Effectiveness of Kinesiologic Taping and Dry Needling in the Treatment of Subacromial Pain Syndrome: a Randomize Trial

This study aims to compare the effectiveness of two common physiotherapy methods, Kinesiologic Taping (KT) and Dry Needling (DN), in the treatment of Subacromial Pain Syndrome (SAPS), a frequent cause of shoulder pain. The trial also investigates whether using KT and DN together provides greater benefits than using them separately. The main goal is to determine which treatment approach is more effective in reducing pain and improving shoulder function in patients with SAPS.

Inclusion Criteria:

Age 18-65 years

Pain in the upper, outer arm, especially during shoulder elevation

Shoulder pain lasting more than 6 weeks with or without partial rotator cuff tear

At least three of the following findings:

Painful arc during flexion or abduction

Positive Neer test

Positive Hawkins-Kennedy test

Painful resisted external rotation

Positive Jobe's test

Diagnosis confirmed by MRI evaluation when indicated

Exclusion Criteria:

Participation in a physical therapy program or receipt of injection therapy within the past 3 months

Previous shoulder surgery

Presence of joint contracture

Complete tendon rupture

Cervical radiculopathy

Systemic inflammatory disease (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis)

Known allergy to tape or materials used in interventions

Bleeding disorders

Local infection or open wound in the treatment area

Cognitive dysfunction that prevents cooperation

History of malignancy