Kinesio Taping Versus Dry Cupping Therapy in Treatment of Thoracic Kyphosis

Kyphosis is defined as an increase in the forward curvature of the spine that is seen along the sagittal plane. When the forward curvature becomes excessive, this is called hyperkyphosis. The curvature can be a normal variance when presented in the thoracic spine or in excess be a cause for instability and concern. The natural history of kyphosis is not exactly well known. Kinesio Taping (KT) stands out as one such modality proposed to manage musculoskeletal disorders (MSK) disorders. First developed in the 1970s by Dr. Kenzo Kase, It is touted for pain relief, increased range of motion (ROM), and muscle relaxation. As such, it is widely used, not only among athletes but also in clinical medicine Another traditional technique is known as dry cupping therapy that involve the application of cups to create localised negative pressure on the skin, has been utilised for over four thousand years. Its use spans various conditions, including musculoskeletal pain. Dry Cupping has traditionally carried folkloric, cultural, religious, and spiritual significance within various societies It is used for health promotion, prophylaxis and treatment of a variety of diseases around the world. It is a well-recognized traditional method for managing medical conditions. Currently, the scope of cupping therapy is expanding, and a growing body of research is providing additional evidence-based data for the further advancement of this therapy in the treatment of a variety of diseases. It has gained popularity and acceptance as a method of treating pain as well as sports injuries and other medical conditions.

Inclusion criteria

• Subjects with thoracic kyphosis angle > 40° diagnosed by a medical doctor will be selected from Damietta University's clinic of physical education faculty.
• Subjects from both genders with an age range between 18 and 30 years .
• Subjects who are physically active in physical education sessions

Exclusion criteria

• Subjects with medical conditions that restrict activity.
• Those who received exercise intervention for kyphosis.
• Structural thoracic kyphosis, defined as thoracic kyphosis that did not partially or completely disappear during prone extension, as assessed by a physical therapist.
• Medical history of spinal fracture, spinal surgery, shoulder joint injury or pelvic injury.
• Other spinal diseases; presence of scoliosis on Adam's forward bend test.
• Spinal kyphosis due to visible thoracic deformity.
• Subjects undergoing professional sports training.
• Skin disease (dermatitis, psoriasis), neurological disease or cancer.
• Using anticoagulants or nonsteroidal antidepressants.
• Inflammatory or rheumatologic disorders of the spine.
• Severe cardiopulmonary disease, rheumatic disease or pregnancy.
• Have a pacemaker or metal implants.
• Do not understand the written consent form.