The Functional Correction of Forward Shoulder Posture with Kinesiotape Improves Chest Mobility and Inspiratory Muscle Strength: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Background. Kinesiotape (K-tape) application can attenuate postural malalignment. However, the effects of K-tape on the changes in the respiratory system in postural problems remain unclear. Objectives. This study investigated the effects of 6-week functional correction with the K-tape on the forward shoulder posture (FSP) and respiratory function. Methods. A randomized clinical trial was performed in the study. Thirty-one young female volunteers with FSP, aged 18 to 25, were randomly divided into control (n = 16) and intervention groups, the latter receiving two parts of 50% tension K-tape for each side of the shoulder for six weeks to decrease posture misalignment (n = 15). Then, the participants were subjected to an evaluation of the pectoral muscle length using a vernier caliper, chest expansion using a measuring tape, and respiratory muscle strength using a respiratory pressure meter. A two-way ANOVA was used to compare the differences within and between the two groups. Results. After six weeks of intervention, the K-tape group showed significant improvement in shoulder alignment (p = 0.001) and an increase in pectoralis minor index (PMI) (p = 0.019) compared to baseline and those in the control group. The magnitude of the chest expansion meant higher mobility (p < 0.001) and maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP) (p = 0.026) in the K-tape group compared to baseline. Conclusion. The 6-week postural K-taping can improve the PMI and attenuate the FSP, with the effects remaining for two weeks. Furthermore, correcting shoulder posture with the 50% tension K-tape can enhance the malaligned shoulder’s chest expansion and inspiratory muscle strength.