Kinesio Taping for Upper Extremity Motor Function in Acute Stroke Patients

This prospective, randomized, controlled parallel-group trial investigated the clinical effects of kinesio taping on motor recovery of the upper extremity in patients with acute ischemic stroke. Participants were adults aged 50-80 years, within the first six months after stroke, presenting with Brunnstrom Stage 1 flaccid upper extremity and hand. Individuals with hemorrhagic stroke, prior upper limb surgery, severe shoulder pain, additional neurological conditions, or musculoskeletal complications affecting the upper limb were excluded. All participants received standard rehabilitation, including positioning training, conventional exercises, and splinting as needed.

Participants were randomized (1:1) into a kinesio taping group or a sham taping group. The kinesio taping protocol followed standard facilitation techniques applied to the dorsum of the hand and forearm with appropriate tension, aiming to support finger, wrist, and hand activation. Sham taping was performed without tension and without crossing joints, to avoid therapeutic effect while maintaining participant blinding. Both groups received three taping applications over approximately three weeks.

Outcome measures included Brunnstrom staging, Fugl-Meyer Assessment (upper extremity, wrist, and hand subscales), Visual Analog Scale for hand pain, Health Assessment Questionnaire, and Beck Depression Inventory. Evaluations were performed before treatment, at the end of the 3-week intervention period, and at 6 weeks. Statistical analyses were conducted using standard non-parametric methods for intra- and inter-group comparisons.

The study was designed to determine whether kinesio taping provides additional benefit beyond conventional rehabilitation in facilitating neurophysiological recovery, improving wrist and hand motor function, reducing pain, supporting functional independence, and decreasing depressive symptoms in the acute phase of stroke. No adverse events were observed during the study.

Inclusion criteria

• Adults aged 50-80 years
• Diagnosis of acute ischemic stroke confirmed by CT or MRI
• Within first 6 months after stroke onset
• Brunnstrom Stage 1 for upper extremity and hand (flaccid muscle tone)
• Sufficient cognitive ability to follow instructions
• Participation in inpatient or outpatient stroke rehabilitation
• Ability to provide informed consent

Exclusion criteria

• Hemorrhagic stroke etiology
• Prior upper extremity surgery, fracture, contracture, or heterotopic ossification
• Brachial plexus injury or peripheral nerve lesions
• Additional neurological disorders (e.g., Parkinson's disease, spinal cord injury, polyneuropathy)
• Severe shoulder pain (VAS ≥ 5) that could interfere with assessments
• Significant musculoskeletal disorders affecting the hemiplegic upper extremity
• Uncontrolled comorbidities that prevent participation in rehabilitation
• Inability to complete follow-up assessments