Relieving symptoms of meralgia paresthetica using Kinesio taping: a pilot study.
OBJECTIVE
To assess the effect of the novel Kinesio taping treatment approach on meralgia paresthetica (MP) symptoms.


METHODS
Repeated measurements, feasibility study of 1 intervention.


METHODS
Referral private physical therapy clinic.


METHODS
Men (n=6) and women (n=4) with clinically and electromyographically diagnosed MP.


METHODS
Application of Kinesio tape, twice a week for 4 weeks (8 treatment sessions in total).


METHODS
Visual analog scale (VAS) of MP symptoms (pain/burning sensation/paresthesia), VAS global quality of life (QOL), and the longest and broadest parts of the symptom area were measured.


RESULTS
All outcome measures significantly improved after 4 weeks of treatment. Mean VAS QOL +/- SD decreased from 69.0+/-23.4 to 35.3+/-25.2 (t=4.3; P=.002). Mean VAS of MP symptoms +/- SD decreased from 60.5+/-20.8 to 31.4+/-26.6 (t=5.9; P>.001). Length and width of affected area decreased from 25.5+/-5.5 to 13.7+/-6.7 (t=5.1; P>.001) and 15.3+/-2.1 to 7.4+/-4.3 (t=5.3; P>.001), respectively.


CONCLUSIONS
Kinesio taping can be used in the treatment of MP. Future randomized placebo-controlled trials should be designed with patients and assessors blind to the type of intervention.
Kalichman
Leonid
L
Department of Physical Therapy, Recanati School for Community Health Professions, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel. kalichman@hotmail.com
Vered
Elisha
E
Volchek
Lior
L
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001458:Bandages; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010146:Pain / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D026741:Physical Therapy Modalities; D010865:Pilot Projects; D011788:Quality of Life; D020886:Somatosensory Disorders / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D013848:Thigh