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Evaluating the effects of two different kinesiology taping techniques on shoulder range of motion and proprioception in patients with hypermobile Ehlers–Danlos syndrome: a randomized controlled trial

F. Tudini, Max Jordon, David Levine, M. Healy, Sarah Cathey, Kevin K. Chui

Frontiers in Rehabilitation Sciences, 2024

3 citations

Abstract

Background Ehlers–Danlos syndrome (EDS) is a common group of inherited connective tissue disorders with a prevalence as high as 0.75%–2% of the population. Physical manifestations include pain and decreased proprioception, especially in more mobile joints, such as the shoulder. The kinesiology tape (K-Tape) is often used to treat patients with shoulder dysfunction. The effectiveness of the K-Tape is uncertain, and there is a lack of studies specifically studying the K-Tape in an EDS population. Purpose The purpose of this study was to compare the short-term effects of two different K-Tape procedures on shoulder active joint reposition (AJR) and active range of motion (AROM) in patients with hypermobile EDS (hEDS) and shoulder pain. Methods All participants were recruited from the EDS support groups and presented with shoulder pain. Baseline demographic information was obtained for each participant, after which AROM and AJR were assessed. The participants were randomized to receive one of two K-Tape procedures. Testing was repeated immediately post-taping and 48 h post-taping. Results Significant improvements in shoulder external (F = 10.917, p 0.05). Conclusion K-Tape may offer short-term improvements in shoulder rotation AROM in patients with hEDS and shoulder pain.

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Evidence Hub reads this as a randomized trial, done in people. Its evidence level is 2 of 5 (High · randomized trial). Randomized trials of a reasonable size are the strongest single-study design.

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