Study of Weight-bearing Capacity and Limit of Stability on Ankle Instability after Applying Kinesio Taping Technique

Abstract

Objective To compare weight-bearing capacity (WBC) and Limit of stability (LOS) between pre- and post- Kinesio Taping application on the pathologic side in persons with ankle instability. Methods Twenty-six participants with ankle instability were recruited. Participants, who performed routine exercise activities, had an average age of 19.07±1.41 years. These participants were tested using Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool (CAIT) (Thai version) and attained t the score less than equal to 27 points. Also, they were tested WBC using the Wireless Weight-Shifting Detector (WWSD; in kilograms) device and to be tested LOS (in centimeters) with Modified Star Excursion Balance (MSEB) test on anterior, posteromedial and posterolateral directions. These participants were applied the Kinesio Taping with the muscle correction and the mechanical correction technique. Afterwards, they repeated the protocol testing for measuring WBC and LOS. The weight-bearing data (kg) and distance (cm) from the MSEB test were calculated to percentage difference (in percent). Results This study revealed that Kinesio Taping application could help to improve the performance on weight-bearing and ankle stability. The average percentage difference of WBC values was increased to 2.52±4.80 percent and the average percentage difference of LOS on posteromedial direction and posterolateral direction were increased to be 12.28±12.54 and 5.82±7.68 percent, respectively. Conclusion Kinesio Taping with muscle correction and mechanical correction techniques on ankle instability can help to improve the WBC and LOS.