EFFECT OF DORSAL KINESIO TAPING ON PAIN, FUNCTIONALITY, GRIP AND PINCH STRENGTH IN CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME: A COMPARATIVE STUDY

Abstract

Background:

Growing prevalence of CTS given the limitations of current conservative interventions, and the need for safe, cost-effective, and evidence-based treatment options, there is a strong rationale for further investigation into the therapeutic value of dorsal Kinesio taping.

Methodology:

A Comparative Study was conducted at Santosh College of Occupational Therapy, Ghaziabad on 44 participants. Participants were randomly divided into two groups. Group A received Daily Dorsal application of Kinesio taping along with the Conventional occupational therapy program for and Group B received dorsal application of Kinesio tape once every three days and Conventional occupational therapy program for 2 weeks. Outcome measures including Boston Carpal tunnel syndrome questionnaire, Visual Analog Scale, Hand dynamometer and pinch gauge.

Results:

Both the groups showed statistically significant improvements in all outcome measures from pre- to post-test, with all p-values < 0.001. In Group A, the reduction in SSS, FSS, and VAS scores, along with increases in grip and pinch strength, were associated with very high t-values (e.g., SSS: t = 25.499; FSS: t = 25.65; VAS: t = 26.259), indicating strong treatment effects. Group B also showed statistically significant improvements (p < 0.001).

Conclusion:

The study concludes that both daily and every three days dorsal application of Kinesio taping are effective in reducing pain, improving functional status, and enhancing grip and pinch strength in individuals with carpal tunnel syndrome.