The clinical effect of Kinesio taping and modified constraint-induced movement therapy on upper extremity function and spasticity in patients with stroke: a randomized controlled pilot study.

Background: Spasticity and impaired hand function are common complication in patients with stroke, and it pose negative impact on quality of life.

Aim: We aimed to assess the effect of the combined administration of kinesio taping (KT) and modified constraint-induced movement therapy (mCIMT) on upper extremity function and spasticity in hemiplegic patients with stroke.

Design: A randomized controlled pilot study.

Setting: A hospital center.

Population: Patient of stroke with hemiplegia for 3-12 months.

Methods: Thirty-five patients were enrolled and allocated into three groups, including the sham KT and mCIMT group, KT group, or KT and mCIMT group. The KT, sham KT, and mCIMT serve as additional therapies (5 days/week for 3 weeks) besides regular rehabilitation (5 days/week for 6 weeks). KT was applied over the dorsal side of the affected hand, while mCIMT was applied to restrain the unaffected upper extremity. The outcomes included the modified Tardieu scale (mTS), Brunnstrom stage, Box and Block Test (BBT), Fugl-Meyer assessment for the upper extremity (FMA-UE), and Stroke Impact Scale version 3.0. Measurements were taken at baseline, immediately after intervention (third week), and 3 weeks later (sixth week).

Results: Between baseline and the third week, within-group comparisons yielded significant improvement in the wrist and hand parts of the FMA and BBT of the Sham KT and mCIMT group (P=0.007-0.035); in the hand part of the FMA, BBT, and mTS degree (P=0.005-0.024) of the KT group; and in the Brunnstrom stage of the wrist, FMA-UE, BBT, and mTS degrees (P=0.005-0.032) of the KT and mCIMT group. Between baseline and the sixth week, there was significant difference in the proximal part of the FMA and mTS degree in groups with KT, but an additional improvement on the Brunnstrom stage of the wrist was noted in the KT and mCIMT group.

Conclusions: KT benefits patients with stroke in spasticity reduction and upper extremity function. The combination of KT and mCIMT provides extra benefit in motor performance with a more long-lasting effect.

Clinical Rehabilitation Impact: Kinesio taping could act as potential adjuvant therapy in patient of stroke with hemiplegia.