Initial effects of elbow taping on pain-free grip strength and pressure pain threshold.
METHODS
Single-blind, placebo control, randomized, crossover, experimental study with repeated measures.


OBJECTIVE
To determine the initial effects of a taping technique on grip strength and pain in individuals with lateral epicondylalgia.


BACKGROUND
Taping techniques are advocated for chronic musculoskeletal conditions such as lateral epicondylalgia, a prevalent disorder with significant impact on the individual and community. Little evidence exists supporting the effects of taping techniques on musculoskeletal pain.


METHODS
Sixteen participants (mean age +/- SD, 45.8 +/- 10.2 years) with chronic lateral epicondylalgia (mean duration +/- SD, 13.1 +/- 9.9 months) participated in a placebo control study of an elbow taping technique. Outcome measures were pain-free grip strength and pressure pain threshold taken before, immediately after, and 30 minutes after application of tape.


RESULTS
The taping technique significantly improved pain-free grip strength by 24% from baseline (P = .028). The treatment effect was greater than that for placebo and control conditions. Changes in pressure pain threshold (19%), although positive, were not statistically significant.


CONCLUSIONS
This preliminary study demonstrated an initial ameliorative effect of a taping technique for lateral epicondylalgia and suggests that it should be considered as an adjunct in the management of this condition.
Vicenzino
Bill
B
Musculoskeletal Pain and Injury Research Unit, Department of Physiotherapy, Univeersily of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia. b.vicenzino@mailbox.uq.edu.au
Brooksbank
Jane
J
Minto
Joanne
J
Offord
Sonia
S
Paungmali
Aatit
A
D000328:Adult; D001458:Bandages; D018592:Cross-Over Studies; D005260:Female; D018737:Hand Strength; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D017288:Pain Threshold; D011312:Pressure; D016037:Single-Blind Method; D013716:Tennis Elbow / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000628:therapy*