The effect of Kinesio ª taping space-correction-technique on post-needling soreness in the trapezius muscle trigger point two

Abstract

Dry needling (DN) fanning technique is an effective treatment for myofascial trigger points (MTP), however, it causes swelling and intramuscular haemorrhage which results in post-needling soreness (PNS). Kinesio ® taping space-correction-technique (KTSCT) is claimed to aid in reducing pain by decreasing inflammation, increasing circulation and lymphatic drainage. This in theory indicates that Kinesio ® taping could reduce/alleviate PNS pain after DN. Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of KTSCT utilizing Kinesio ® Tex Gold tape in reducing the level of PNS associated with DN a trapezius muscle trigger point two. Method: Forty five patients with active trapezius muscle MTP two were randomly allocated into one of three treatment groups. All groups received a standardized DN treatment. Thereafter, group one received no further treatment and acted as the control group, group two received an application of KTSCT utilizing Kinesio ® Tex Gold tape, while group three received a non-proprioceptive hypoallergenic tape application. Assessments were made pre-, post-treatment and at a follow-up consultation on the following day once the taping application was removed. Assessments included numerical pain rating scale-101 (NRS-101), a pain diary and algometer readings. Results: Group three showed an improvement over the control group, however, it was not a statistically significant improvement in any of the assessments. Group two showed statistically significant improvement over the control in the pain diary and algometer readings overall. Results from the NRS-101, showed that group two had a statistically significant improvement when compared to the control group over the time interval when the Kinesio ® Tex Gold tape was applied to the patient. Conclusion: KTSCT utilizing Kinesio ® Tex Gold tape had a greater effect in reducing the level of PNS associated with DN a trapezius muscle trigger point two, when compared with either a non-proprioceptive hypoallergenic tape application or a control group.