Effects of Kinesio Taping on Plantar Fascia and Ankle Function

The Effects of Different Kinesio Taping Techniques on Plantar Fascia Stiffness, Balance, and Ankle Joint Position Sense in Healthy Young Adults

This randomized controlled study aimed to compare the short-term effects of three different kinesio taping techniques on plantar fascia elasticity, dynamic balance, and ankle joint position sense in healthy young adults. A total of 120 participants aged 18-25 years were randomly assigned to facilitation kinesio taping, ankle stabilization taping, or sham taping groups. Plantar fascia mechanical properties were assessed using MyotonPRO, dynamic balance was evaluated with the modified Star Excursion Balance Test (mSEBT), and joint position sense was measured using the active angle reproduction method. Outcomes were assessed at baseline, 24 hours, and 48 hours after tape application.

Kinesio taping is commonly used to improve neuromuscular control, proprioception, and lower-extremity biomechanics. However, the comparative effects of different kinesio taping techniques on plantar fascia mechanical behavior and functional performance remain unclear. This study was designed as a prospective randomized controlled trial to investigate the effects of facilitation kinesio taping, ankle stabilization taping, and sham taping on plantar fascia elasticity, dynamic balance, and ankle joint position sense.

A total of 120 healthy young adults between the ages of 18 and 25 years participated in the study. Participants were randomly allocated into three intervention groups. Group 1 received facilitation kinesio taping, Group 2 received ankle stabilization taping, and Group 3 received sham taping. Plantar fascia viscoelastic properties including frequency, stiffness, relaxation time, and creep were evaluated using the MyotonPRO device. Dynamic balance performance was assessed using the modified Star Excursion Balance Test (mSEBT), and ankle joint position sense was evaluated using the active angle reproduction method with the Dr.Goniometer application.

Measurements were performed at baseline, 24 hours, and 48 hours after tape application. The primary objective of the study was to determine whether different kinesio taping methods produce different short-term effects on plantar fascia elasticity and lower-extremity function.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Healthy young adults aged 18-25 years
• No history of lower extremity injury affecting ankle function
• Full, pain-free ankle range of motion in all directions

Exclusion Criteria:

• History of ankle dislocation or fracture within the previous year
• Previous foot or ankle surgery
• Pain during ankle movements
• Open wounds or skin allergy preventing kinesio taping application
• Psychiatric disorders or cognitive impairment affecting participation