The Influence of Kinesiology Tape on Posture and Breathing Mechanics in Healthy Individuals: A Randomized Trial

Background and Purpose: Kinesiology tape (KT) has been used clinically to improve posture, mobility, and muscle strength. Limited research has investigated the effect of KT on respiratory function. The purpose of this study was to explore the effects of KT on posture and breathing in healthy individuals. Methods: Ninety-two adult participants were randomly assigned to a KT, sham tape (ST), or control group. Data collection occurred over 2 sessions. Baseline measurements included chest wall expansion (CWE) at the sternal angle (SA) and xiphoid process (Xi), maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP), and tragus (TWD) and acromion (AWD) to wall distances. Next, KT or ST was applied to the upper back and neck, or no tape was applied based on group assignment. Measurements were then repeated. Participants returned for a final round of measurements 48 hours later. Mixed-measures ANOVAs were used to determine the influence of tape at baseline (T0), immediately post-taping (T1), and 48 hours post-taping (T2). Post hoc analyses used the Tukey method. Results: Analysis showed significant differences between T0 and T1 ( P = .004) and between T1 and T2 ( P = .004) for AWD on the left. CWE-Xi data showed within group differences T0-T2 ( P = .004) and T1-T2 ( P = .004). MIP data showed within group differences between T0 and T1 ( P = .001), T0 and T2 ( P < .001), and T1 and T2 ( P < .001). Discussion: KT had a limited and inconsistent impact on posture where there was a decrease in AWD on the left from T0 to T1 and then an increase from T1 to T2. No other changes in posture were found. Taping did not affect CWE at the SA. There was an evident training effect for CWE-Xi and MIP, where all groups saw increases over time. Conclusion: This method of KT application is not supported as an intervention for influencing posture and enhancing inspiratory breathing mechanics in healthy adults. Further investigation of KT in other populations is needed.