Dorsal application of kinesio tape for carpal tunnel syndrome: effects on occupational performance - a feasibility study.

Cvjetkovic, Nicholas and Galloway, Michael B. and Ganev, Diane A. and Kolak, Kristin L. (2018) Dorsal application of kinesio tape for carpal tunnel syndrome: effects on occupational performance - a feasibility study. Masters thesis, Stanbridge University.

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Abstract

Purpose: Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is an impingement of the median nerve which impacts the function of the hand. Standard protocols for effective interventions appear to be lacking. The purpose of this feasibility study was to determine if Kinesio tape, when applied to the dorsal aspect of the forearm, wrist, and hand, affects pain and function of individuals with carpal tunnel syndrome. Methods: Participants were separated into three intervention groups: a dorsal hand and forearm Kinesio tape group (KT or Kinesio tape group), splinting group (splint group), and a spine of the scapula Kinesio tape group (control group). Each participant attended five sessions every three days over the course of two and a half weeks. Assessments administered during each session included grip and pinch strength, as well as the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire (BCTQ), the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), a symptom journal, and lumbrical exercise logs for those who wore splints. Results: The results of this study were isolated to the wrist with activity for each visit. Grip and pinch were compared pre- and post-intervention. The Kinesio tape group showed the greatest improvement in pain and function compared to the other intervention groups. Discussion: Kinesio taping may be a viable alternative treatment option for individuals with carpal tunnel syndrome as it offers flexibility to continue participating in daily occupation and may aid in reducing pain and increasing function. The initial results of this study demonstrate a positive impact from Kinesio taping for managing CTS; however, due to the small sample size, it is recommended that further research is conducted at a larger scale to verify the efficacy of this intervention.

Item Type:	Thesis (Masters)
Additional Information:	Masters of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT) degree.
Subjects:	R Medicine > RC Internal medicine
Depositing User:	Fred Poling
Date Deposited:	13 Mar 2019 16:17
Last Modified:	24 Jan 2022 22:05
URI:	http://repository.stanbridge.edu/id/eprint/12

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