Kinesio Taping Effects on Balance and Ankle Proprioception

Ankle and foot injuries are among the most frequently observed musculoskeletal injuries, particularly in athletes and physically active individuals. Various preventive methods have been developed to reduce the risk of such injuries, including exercise programs, footwear modifications, and taping techniques. Kinesio taping (KT) is widely used to enhance proprioception, joint stability, and neuromuscular function, but its effectiveness in healthy young adults remains unclear.

This study aims to evaluate the impact of different kinesio taping applications on joint position sense and balance in healthy young adults. The ankle-foot complex is rich in mechanoreceptors and plays a crucial role in movement and postural control. However, proprioceptive deficits and balance impairments contribute to the risk of injuries such as chronic ankle instability (CAI) and lateral ankle sprains. While several studies have investigated the effects of KT in injured populations, research on its impact on proprioception and balance in uninjured individuals is lacking.

By analyzing changes in balance and proprioception among healthy participants, this study will provide valuable insights into the potential role of kinesio taping in injury prevention. Understanding these effects before an injury occurs could help refine rehabilitation strategies and improve clinical decision-making regarding the use of kinesio taping for both prevention and post-injury treatment.

Inclusion criteria

• Age: Participants must be between 18-25 years old.
• General Health: Participants must be generally healthy individuals, with no previously diagnosed chronic health conditions, musculoskeletal disorders, or history of injuries.
• Ankle Health: No ankle injuries or surgical interventions in the past six months.
• Informed Consent: Participants must voluntarily agree to participate and sign the informed consent form.

Exclusion criteria

• History of Injuries: Any lower extremity injury (ankle or knee) within the past year.
• Neurological Disorders: Any neurological condition that may affect balance or proprioception.
• Other Health Conditions: Presence of chronic diseases such as rheumatic diseases, diabetes, or musculoskeletal disorders that could impact the study outcomes.