Document Type

Poster

Publication Date

2023

Abstract

Introduction

  • Limited scapular upward rotation and posterior tilting during upper extremity elevation are correlated with subacromial impingement syndrome (SAIS)
  • Previous research found significant increases in scapular posterior tilting with Kinesio®tape (KT) application
  • Purpose: To find a taping method that increases scapular upward rotation and posterior tilting
  • Hypothesis: KT application for mechanical facilitation will increase scapular upward rotation during upper extremity elevation

Objective

  • Investigate the effects of KT on scapular kinematics during upper extremity elevation

Participants

  • Twenty asymptomatic participants aged 23-36 years old (mean 25.45)
  • No cervical, thoracic, or shoulder conditions affecting shoulder ROM
  • Right hand dominant

Methods

  • Kinesio ® tape was applied to the dominant upper extremity
  • 3D motion of the humerus and scapula were measured using the G4 electromagnetic motion capture system and MotionMonitor software
  • Upper extremely elevation was performed in the sagittal, frontal, and scapular planes without tape and with tape. The non-tape condition was repeated
  • Repeated measures ANOVA utilizing SPSS v 28 for statistical analysis

Results

  • No statistically significant difference in scapular upward rotation with upper extremity elevation between KT, non-KT, and repeated non-KT conditions (p=0.603)
  • No statistically significant difference in scapular posterior tilting with upper extremity elevation between KT, non-KT, and repeated non-KT conditions (p=0.376)
  • Results are outlined in figure 2.

Conclusion

  • It is hypothesized that KT can alter the kinematics of the scapula and could be used to help treat individuals with SAIS
  • The current literature has not reached a consensus as to whether or not KT has the ability to alter the kinematics of the scapula
  • Current study found no change in either scapular posterior tilting or upward rotation
  • Further research is needed to see if this taping method would be effective at reducing pain in individuals with symptomatic SAIS

Clinical Relevance

  • Increasing posterior tilt and upward rotation of the scapula may improve SAIS symptoms
  • Kinesiotape may provide improvements in scapular motion during UE elevation

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