Effects of kinesiologic taping on epidermal-dermal distance, pain, edema and inflammation after experimentally induced soft tissue trauma.

PURPOSE: In sports medicine, the use of kinesiologic tape has recently gained popularity. Although widely used, there is no study examining the effects of kinesiologic tape on soft tissue after a contusion injury. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of kinesiologic taping on epidermal-dermal distance, edema, pain and inflammation after experimentally induced contusion injury.

METHODS: Twelve adult female Wistar albino rats were divided into two groups: (1) 30 min group: n = 6, weight range: 182.0-199.4 g; and (2) 6 h group: n = 6, weight range: 186.9-200.8 g. After soft-tissue trauma, tape was applied to the right sides of each rat. In one group, tape was applied for 30 min while 6 h in the other. To assess the epidermal-dermal distance and edematous area, tissue sections were stained with hematoxylin and eosin and examined. Tissue sections were stained with nerve growth factor (NGF) and B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) immunohistochemically to evaluate the effect of taping on pain and inflammation respectively.

RESULTS: Epidermal-dermal distances were found to be significantly higher than controls' in both groups (p < 0.05). Notable decreases were seen in edematous areas in both groups (p < 0.05). NGF and Bcl-2 immune reactivity were decreased in all tape applied sides.

CONCLUSIONS: After soft-tissue trauma, it was histologically shown that kinesiologic taping increases epidermal-dermal distance, and may reduce the sensation of pain, edema and inflammation. For better, faster and comfortable tissue healing with protection of soft-tissue integrity, kinesiologic taping may be a valuable treatment after contusion injury. However, these results should be supported by clinical studies.