Effects of Kinesio Taping versus McConnell Taping for Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

TL;DR

This study compares Kinesio and McConnell taping for patellofemoral pain syndrome, finding both reduce pain but differ in effects on muscle activity and patellar alignment.

Contribution

A systematic review and meta-analysis comparing Kinesio and McConnell taping effects on patellofemoral pain syndrome patients.

Findings

Kinesio taping reduces pain and improves muscle flexibility in PFPS patients.

McConnell taping also relieves pain and improves patellar alignment.

Meta-analysis shows Kinesio taping moderately affects muscle activity but not patellar alignment.

Abstract

Objectives. To conduct a systematic review comparing the effects of Kinesio taping with McConnell taping as a method of conservative management of patients with patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS). Methods. MEDLINE, PUBMED, EMBASE, AMED, and the Cochrane Central Register of Control Trials electronic databases were searched through July 2014. Controlled studies evaluating the effects of Kinesio or McConnell taping in PFPS patients were retrieved.
Results. Ninety-one articles were selected from the articles that were retrieved from the databases, and 11 articles were included in the analysis. The methods, evaluations, and results of the articles were collected, and the outcomes of patellar tapings were analyzed. Kinesio taping can reduce pain and increase the muscular flexibility of PFPS patients, and McConnell taping also had effect in pain relief and patellar alignment. Meta-analysis showed small effect in pain reduction and motor function improvement and moderate effect in muscle activity change among PFPS patients using Kinesio taping. Conclusions. Kinesio taping technique used for muscles can relieve pain but cannot change patellar alignment, unlike McConnell taping. Both patellar tapings are used differently for PFPS patients and substantially improve muscle activity, motor function, and quality of life.

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