EFFECTIVENESS OF KINESIO TAPING® IN LOWER LIMB FUNCTION OR PEDIATRIC NEUROLOGICAL DYSFUNCTION

Abstract

Objective: the objective of this research is to analyze the immediate effectiveness of Kinesio Taping® applied in the posterior muscle chain lower limb of children diagnosed with cerebral palsy who have a heightened equinus deformity. Material and methods: A quasi-experimental study. Were recruited a sample of 12 patients from several centers participating in Jaén province. Inclusion criteria that were applied: neurological disease, equinus deformity presence, lack of hindfoot support in the footprint measured with phenolic foam and informed consent of parents or guardians. The intervention consisted of applying Kinesio Taping® in triceps and hamstring muscles during a period of 5 weeks. The bandage was changed every 3 or 4 days (retired at home and came to consultation for a new application). The study variables were: Range of motion, that was measured with traditional goniometry, Spasticity evaluated with the Ashworth Scale Medicated and Equinus Deformity evaluated by Congenital Clubfoot Scale Medicated. Ten measures were recorded: at baseline, the second, third and fourth week and at the end of the study, always registering the values provided prior to placement of the bandage and just after its application (to assess the immediate effect of the bandage). Results: All values that were taken without bandage, at different times of the study, were identical. When comparing the different measurements without bandage and the values obtained with the bandage in place, was founded a statistically significant improvement in range of motion in dorsiflexion and in the registered scores values on both scales. Discussion/Conclusions: The therapeutic application of Kinesio Ta-ping® in children with equinus deformity was effective in improving spasticity and range of motion in dorsiflexion with an immediately effect after bandage placement, although this beneficial effect does not remain when the bandage is taken off.