Article

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of Kinesio Tape (KT)
application to quadriceps muscles on isokinetic muscle strength, gait, and
functional parameters in patients with stroke. Twenty-four patients were
allocated into KT and control groups. All patients participated in the same
conventional rehabilitation program 5 times/wk for 4 wk. In addition, KT was
applied to quadriceps muscles bilaterally to the patients in the KT group.
Compared with baseline, peak torque levels increased significantly in both groups
(all p < 0.05). However, change levels were significantly higher in the KT group
than the control group at 60 degrees/second angular velocity (AV) in extension (p
= 0.04) and 60 and 180 degrees/second AV in flexion (both p = 0.02) on the
paretic side. Moreover, the change levels were more prominent in the KT group at
60 and 180 degrees/second AV in extension (p = 0.03 and p = 0.04, respectively)
on the nonparetic side. Gait, balance, mobility, and quality of life values
improved significantly in both groups (all p < 0.05), yet the change levels
between the groups did not reach significance (p > 0.05). KT application to
quadriceps muscles in addition to conventional exercises for 4 wk is effective on
isokinetic but not functional parameters.

Langue : ANGLAIS