Abstract
Purpose: This study aims to determine the long-term effect of neurophysiological taping over a period of three weeks on the strength of the gastrocnemius muscle in asymptomatic (pain free) individuals. Additionally, the aim of this study is to evaluate any change in the peak force on the gastrocnemius muscle over the three-week period, thus providing more information regarding a more long-term effect in weeks for the taping rather than an immediate effect. With the introduction of Kinesio® Tape, patient compliance can be reduced during the estimated time frame of this study. The tape has little effect on the participant’s everyday activities and should continue to have an increased effect and impact to the involved musculature with very little effort required by each participant. Method: This study was an exploratory study that utilised convenience sampling and random group allocation This study consisted of Thirty participants which were randomly allocated to one of two groups. Group 2 received neurophysiological taping applied to the gastrocnemius muscle bilaterally. Group 1, the control group, received hypoallergenic Cover-Roll stretch tape applied to the gastrocnemius muscle bilaterally. The potential participants were accepted according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Procedure: Treatment consisted of six consultations with an additional seventh consultation whereby data collection was performed only. Each group was treated twice a week for a period of three weeks. Objective data consisted of peak torque, coefficient variable and peak torque deficit ratio values using the Cybex Isokinetic muscle strength machine. Each participant within the study, regardless of their group allocation, received three objective measurements. The primary measurement was that of a two-speed protocol of torque versus time curves of both the right and left gastrocnemius muscles on the first, fourth and seventh visit. The data was collected and presented for analysis to a statistician. Results: Statistically significant changes were noted within group 2 with reference to peak torque. However, group 1 remained the same throughout the period of the study. These results were supported by the coefficient variable and peak torque deficit values that all experienced an improvement in group 2. Clinically significant improvements were noted in group 2 over the duration of the study between visits 1 and 7 with reference to peak torque, coefficient variable and peak torque deficit values. This suggesting not only does the tape have a short term effect between visits 1 and 4 and 4 and 7 but also a long-term effect between vii visits 1 and 7. Group 1 showed very little clinical significance which either remained the same or decreased throughout the study period. Conclusion: The results show evidence that Kinesio® Tape has a clinically and statistically significant effect on the strength of the gastrocnemius muscle over a long term. Group 1 had a clinically greater significance between the first and seventh visits. However, Group 2 remained the same with little-to-no increase within these values. This effective treatment to the gastrocnemius muscle by means of application of Kinesio® Tape showed beneficial results as compared to group 1. The mean values within the Kinesio® Tape group was greater than the mean values within the Hypoallergenic Cover-Roll Stretch Tape group. This form of taping has proven to be beneficial for individuals who have an interest in maintaining and increasing muscular strength and tonicity to the gastrocnemius muscle group for means of everyday use or athletic purposes.
M.Tech. (Chiropractic)