Date of Award

2017

Degree Type

Selective Evidence-Based Medicine Review

Degree Name

Master of Science in Health Sciences - Physician Assistant

Department

Physician Assistant Studies

Department Chair

John Cavenagh, MBA, PhD, PA-C

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this selective EBM review is to determine whether or not Kinesio tape (KT) is effective in improving gross motor functionality throughout the sit-to-stand transfer activity in children with cerebral palsy (CP).

Study Design: Review of three English language primary studies published between 2011 and 2015.

Data Sources: One not-blinded randomized controlled trial (RCT), one single-blind RCT, and one cross-sectional study were found using the PubMed database.

Outcomes Measured: The outcomes that were measured were improvement in gross motor function, sitting posture, functional independence, balance, ambulation, and agility from sitting to standing. This was done by utilizing the gross motor function measure sitting subscale, independence measure for children, sit-to-stand transfer activity measurement, timed-up-and-go test, sitting assessment scale, and pediatric balance scale, all of which focused on improvements in motor function with the application of KT.

Results: In a not-blinded RCT by Simsek et al (2011), there was no observed direct effect of KT on gross motor function and functional independence. However, they found that sitting posture, including head, neck, foot position, arm position, and hand function, were positively affected with the utilization of KT. This may potentiate the findings of other studies showing the beneficial effects on postural alignment in sitting. The Kaya et al (2015) study found that taping improves short-term muscle power, functional muscle strength, and gross motor function, thereby showing an improved execution of the sit-to-stand movement. Additionally, a cross-sectional study by da Costa et al (2013) demonstrated that participants had a significant improvement in their sit-to-stand transfer activity under the condition of taping. This was reflected by a decrease in execution tine, reduction in ankle flexion peak, and greater knee extension at the end of the movement.

Conclusions: Based on these three trials, the application of KT in children with CP was found to be effective in improving sitting posture, and postural control throughout the sit-to-stand transfer activity. Improvements in more generalized gross motor functionality and muscle power are not conclusive. Each study demonstrated benefits with taping when participants underwent their routine course of physiotherapy.

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