AUTHOR=Tudini Frank , Jordon Max , Levine David , Healy Michael , Cathey Sarah , Chui Kevin 

TITLE=Evaluating the effects of two different kinesiology taping techniques on shoulder range of motion and proprioception in patients with hypermobile Ehlers–Danlos syndrome: a randomized controlled trial

JOURNAL=Frontiers in Rehabilitation Sciences

VOLUME=Volume 5 - 2024

YEAR=2024

URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/rehabilitation-sciences/articles/10.3389/fresc.2024.1383551

DOI=10.3389/fresc.2024.1383551

ISSN=2673-6861

ABSTRACT=Background: Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) is a common group of inherited connective tissue disorders with a prevalence as high as 0.75% -2% of the population. Physical manifestations include pain and decreased proprioception, especially in more mobile joints such as the shoulder. Kinesiology tape (K-Tape) is often used to treat patients with shoulder dysfunction. The effectiveness of K-Tape is uncertain and there is a lack of studies specifically studying K-Tape in an EDS population. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to compare the short-term effects of two different K-Tape procedures on shoulder active joint reposition (AJR) and active range of motion (AROM) in patients with hypermobile EDS and shoulder pain. Methods: All participants were recruited from EDS support groups and presented with shoulder pain. Baseline demographic information was obtained for each participant after which AROM and AJR were assessed. The participants were randomized to receive one of two K-Tape procedures. Testing was repeated immediately after the K-Tape and 48-hours later. Results: Significant improvements in shoulder external (F = 10.917, p <0.001) and internal (F = 11.736, p<0.001) rotation were seen from baseline to immediately post-tape and baseline to 48hours later in the experimental K-Tape group. There were no significant differences in shoulder rotation in the control K-Tape group and no significant differences in either group for shoulder flexion or AJR at any time point (p>0.05). Conclusion: K-Tape may offer short-term improvements in shoulder rotation AROM in patients with hypermobile EDS and shoulder pain.