Comparative Impact of Kinesio Taping and Post-Isometric Muscle Relaxation on Pain and Myofascial Mechanics in Chronic Low Back Pain: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

BACKGROUND This study aimed to evaluate and compare the effects of Kinesio taping (KT), with or without tension (Placebo), and post-isometric muscle relaxation (PIR) on pain intensity and the mechanical properties of myofascial tissues in chronic low back pain (LBP) patients. MATERIAL AND METHODS Study participants (n=64; females, n=34; males, n=30; mean age 41.9 years), were randomly assigned to 1 of the 3 intervention groups. The numerical rating scale (NRS) was used to assess pain intensity at rest, the Oswestry Disability Index was used to estimate the level of disability, and the MyotonPRO© device was used to measure tension, stiffness, and relaxation in the erector spinae on both sides of the lumbar spine. The examinations were performed before the intervention, after interventions, and at 7-day follow-up (RCT Id: ACTRN12624000121561). RESULTS Pain and level of disability were reduced for all groups (P<0.01). In addition, post hoc analysis of the KT group showed significant increases in tension and stiffness of the erector spinae and significantly decreased relaxation between the pre-intervention and follow-up measurements, but only on the contralateral side (P<0.01). CONCLUSIONS KT with or without tape tension and PIR had similar effects in decreasing the level of resting pain and disability. Pain reduction was not related to changes in the mechanical properties of the soft tissue. It can be concluded that the KT with or without tape tension or PIR were mainly analgesic effects, and should be used as a combined therapy in LBP patients.