Acute Effect of Kinesiological Tape on Pain and Mechanical Properties of the Trapezius Muscle in Neck Pain Due to Smart Phone Addiction

Authors : Emine Atici, Mustafa Savaş Torlak

Pages : 167-177

Doi:10.58770/joinihp.1368738

View : 49 | Download : 54

Publication Date : 2023-12-22

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :This study aimed to assess the short-term effects of inhibitory kinesiologic tape (KT) and sham tape on neck pain and muscle tone in individuals with smartphone addiction. Forty-two healthy participants were randomized to receive either KT or sham tape application to their upper trapezius muscle (UTM). Smartphone addiction was assessed using the Smartphone Addiction Scale (SAS), and pain severity was measured using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Muscle tone and stiffness were evaluated using a myotonometer. No significant differences were found in pain or muscle mechanical properties between the groups after treatment. However, KT recipients had significantly higher tone and stiffness in their left trapezius muscle compared to their right trapezius muscle (p < 0.05). Additionally, right trapezius stiffness was significantly higher in participants with SAS scores of 100 points or more compared to those with SAS scores below 100 points (p < 0.05). Finally, left trapezius elasticity increased significantly in participants with SAS scores of 100 points or more (p < 0.05). Overall, the study findings suggest that short-term application of KT to the UTM may reduce neck pain in individuals with smartphone addiction.
Keywords : Kinezyotape, Cep telefonu, Boyun ağrısı