The mechanical effect of kinesiology tape on rounded shoulder posture in seated male workers: a single-blinded randomized controlled pilot study.

Study Design: Single-blinded randomized controlled pilot study.

Objectives: To examine the changes in pectoralis minor length (PML), the supine measurement of rounded shoulder posture (RSP), and the total scapular distance (TSD) in seated male workers with RSP, after rounded-shoulder-taping (RST) using kinesiology tape with (experimental taping) and without stretch (placebo taping).

Background: RSP, a postural impairment, is a known cause of upper quarter pain.

Methods: Fourteen men with RSP, who worked for at least 7 h/d in a seated position, were selected for RST, with the shoulders randomly assigned to two kinesiology taping methods: (1) with 35-40% stretch of its original length; and (2) without stretch. The PML, supine measurements of RSP, and TSD, before and after kinesiology taping, with and without stretch, were assessed.

Results: Kinesiology taping with stretch significantly increased the PML and significantly decreased the supine measurement of RSP and TSD; kinesiology taping without stretch did not increase the PML significantly and did not decrease the supine measurement of RSP and TSD.

Conclusion: RST using kinesiology tape with stretch produces immediate mechanical correction of RSP in seated male workers.