Article

Double blind pre-test post-test control group design. OBJECTIVES:
To compare the isokinetic quadriceps torque, standardized stair-climbing task
(SSCT) and pain during SSCT between subjects diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis
pre and post kinesio tape (KT) application with and without tension. BACKGROUND:
Strength of the quadriceps and torque producing capability is frequently found to
be compromised in knee osteoarthritis. The efficacy of KT in improving isokinetic
quadriceps torque in knee osteoarthritis is unknown, forming the basis for this
study. METHOD : Forty subjects were randomly allocated to either the
experimental (therapeutic KT with tension) or control group (sham KT without
tension) with the allocation being concealed. Pre and post test measurements of
isokinetic quadriceps torque, SSCT and pain during SSCT were carried out by a
blinded assessor. RESULTS: A large effect size with significant improvements in
the peak quadriceps torque (concentric and eccentric at angular velocities of 90
degrees per second and 120 degrees per second), SSCT and pain were obtained in
the experimental group when compared to the control group. CONCLUSION:
Application of therapeutic KT is effective in improving isokinetic quadriceps
torque, SSCT and reducing pain in knee osteoarthritis.

Langue : ANGLAIS