Dynamic Taping in Symptomatic Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy

This study was planned to compare the effectiveness of dynamic taping and kinesio taping combined with a rehabilitation program on the symptomatic shoulder in patients with symptomatic rotator cuff tendinopathy (RCT). The study was carried out on 60 patients who applied to Muğla Training and Research Hospital Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation outpatient clinic with symptoms of RCT. The patients were divided into 3 groups by randomization method. Dynamic taping was applied to the symptomatic shoulder in the first group and kinesio taping was performed in the second group. The third group was the control group and no taping was done. A standard rehabilitation program was applied for the individuals in the whole group. Evaluations were made before and after treatment (6 weeks). Evaluation parameters were acromiohumeral distance (primary outcome), shoulder joint range of motion, muscle strength, proprioception measurements, and function evaluations. The acromiohumeral distance was measured by the radiologist, and all other measurements and treatments were performed by the physiotherapist. Standard goniometer was used for shoulder joint range of motion measurement, manual muscle dynamometer was used for muscle strength measurement, and digital inclinometer was used for proprioception measurement. Timed arm-shoulder function test was performed for function evaluation. The arm, shoulder, and hand disability (DASH) questionnaire and the Western Ontario Rotator Cuff Index (WORC) were used for the self-function report. The data obtained from the research will be analyzed using the SPSS program. Statistical significance level will be accepted as p<0.05. In the statistical difference analysis between groups, one-way ANOVA test will be used for parametric data and Kruskal-Wallis test will be used for non-parametric data.

Inclusion criteria

• Those with a diagnosis of RCT
• Those with subacromial pain
• At least two of the three impingement tests are positive (empty-can test, Hawkins-Kennedy test, modified Neer test)
• 18-65 years old

Exclusion criteria

• Those with open wounds at the taping area
• Those who have allergic reactions to taping
• Those who have had shoulder surgery before
• Those with total rotator cuff tendon rupture
• Those with a history of fractures in the upper extremity or glenohumeral joint subluxation -- Presence of adhesive capsulitis (those with more than passive shoulder joint motion loss 70%)
• Presence of congenital or acquired deformity involving the upper extremity
• Those with rheumatic or neurologic disease
• Those with cervical radiculopathy
• Those with a history of neoplasm or cognitive impairment (MMSE<24)
• Those who received corticosteroid injection to the shoulder region in the last 3 months
• Those who received physiotherapy treatment in the last 3 months