Does the Kinesio tape provide more knee extensor torque?

Abstract

Background: A strong performance from the quadriceps muscle has been associated with improved dynamic stabilization of the knee and a lower risk of injuries. Therefore, techniques that improve quadriceps muscle activity are often used in physiotherapy programs. Objectives: To evaluate the effect of Kinesio tape (KT) on the isokinetic parameters, in physically active women, 24 hours after being applied to the vastus medialis oblique, vastus lateralis oblique and vastus lateralis longus muscles. Methods: A randomized, crossover and double-blind study with 16 women (31.5 ± 5.6 years old) was conducted. The quadriceps muscle performance was evaluated through the use of an isokinetic dynamometer (concentric-concentric at 60°/s) 24 hours before and after the application of KT on the dominant limb. The following variables were evaluated: peak torque; maximum repetition of the total work; work fatigue; agonist/antagonist ratio; deceleration time; and the time to reach the peak torque. Results: There were no statistically significant differences and no clinically relevant differences between the placebo and the KT groups on the outcome variables studied (0.362 < P < 0.906). Conclusions: Application of KT for 24 hours was insufficient to improve the knee extensor torque in physically active women.