Effect of Kinesio Taping on Lumbar Muscle Temperature

This single-blind, randomized controlled trial aims to assess the effects of Kinesio Taping (KT) applied to the lumbar paravertebral muscles at different tension levels (25% and 75%) on local body temperature. KT is an elastic adhesive band that is believed to increase circulation, improve muscle function, support proprioception, and alleviate pain. Previous studies have explored the effects of KT on local temperature, but the impact of varying tension levels on temperature and circulation has not been extensively examined. This study seeks to fill this gap by investigating how different tensions in KT application affect local body temperature, a potential indicator of changes in circulation.

The study will include 54 participants, randomly assigned into three groups: a 25% tension KT group, a 75% tension KT group, and a control group. Participants will be stratified by gender to ensure balanced representation. KT will be applied unilaterally to the paravertebral muscles, with the side (right or left) selected by a coin toss. The KT application will follow the standard "I" shape, with 5 cm anchor segments at both ends, and the tension will be applied along the L1-L5 vertebrae in a neutral standing position. After participants bend forward to their maximum comfort level, the tape will be applied, and adhesion will be ensured by rubbing the tape.

Local body temperature will be measured using a FLIR E5 infrared camera (Teledyne FLIR, USA) at four time points: immediately before the KT application, 15 minutes after the application, 45 minutes after the application, and 24 hours post-application. The thermal measurements will be analyzed using FLIR E5 software to determine the minimum, average, and maximum temperatures of the taped area.

The primary outcome of the study is to determine if KT application under different tension levels influences local body temperature, potentially reflecting changes in blood circulation. Secondary outcomes include the comparison of temperature variations between the tension groups and the control group, and the analysis of how time influences these changes.

Statistical analysis will involve one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) to compare the demographic characteristics of the groups and a three-way repeated measures ANOVA to assess differences in local body temperature across groups (25% tension, 75% tension, and control), sides (right and left), and time points. Bonferroni post hoc tests will be used to further explore significant interactions or main effects. Descriptive statistics will summarize demographic data, and significance will be set at p < 0.05.

This study is expected to provide valuable insights into the physiological effects of KT and may contribute to a better understanding of how different tension levels influence local circulation and body temperature. These findings could inform clinical practices related to KT and its potential therapeutic benefits.

Inclusion criteria

• Willingness to participate in the study
• Aged between 18 and 35 years
• Ability to read and understand Turkish

Exclusion criteria

• Experiencing muscle pain in the upper extremity, torso, or lower extremity
• Use of medication or having a systemic disease that may affect thermoregulation
• Having dermatological conditions in the area where Kinesio Taping will be applied
• Having undergone surgery in the upper extremity, torso, or lower extremity
• Being pregnant