Effects of Kinesiotaping in Osteoarthritis

Knee osteoarthritis will be recognized as a leading cause of pain and functional disability, and conventional physiotherapy will remain a cornerstone of its management. Kinesiotaping will be widely used as an adjunct intervention; however, its additional benefit beyond standard rehabilitation programs will remain unclear.

This study will aim to investigate the additional effects of kinesiotaping combined with a conventional physiotherapy and rehabilitation program on pain, functional status, and kinesiophobia in individuals with unilateral knee osteoarthritis.

A total of 60 participants with unilateral knee osteoarthritis will be included in this randomized controlled trial and will be assigned to either a conventional physiotherapy (CP) group or a kinesiotaping (KT) group. Both groups will receive a 4-week (12 sessions) physiotherapy program including ultrasound, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, patellofemoral mobilization, and exercise. Kinesiotaping will be applied every 3 days in the KT group. Outcome measures will include pain (VAS), kinesiophobia (TSK, FABQ), functional performance (30-s sit-to-stand, stair climb test), dynamic balance (functional reach), and WOMAC.

Inclusion criteria

• Diagnosis of unilateral grade 2 knee osteoarthritis,
• Age between 40 and 65 years,
• Ability to understand and comply with assessments and interventions,
• Independent ambulation without assistive devices,
• No participation in a physiotherapy program for knee-related complaints within the previous year

Exclusion criteria

• History of lower extremity surgery or trauma,
• Presence of neurological or orthopedic conditions affecting gait or physical function,
• Allergic reaction to kinesiotape,
• Inability to walk independently.