Effect of Thoracic Kinesiotape on Pulmonary Function in Children with Pneumonia

Background: Pneumonia represents an inflammatory lung disease that mostly affects the small air sacs called alveoli. Viruses, bacteria, and other types of microorganisms, certain medications, and medical disorders (including autoimmune diseases) are the most common causes. Patients and Methods: Thirty children suffering from pneumonia from both sexes and aged from 4 to 7 years took-part in this study. The patients were distributed into two equal groups (study and control groups), control group was given selected chest physical therapy exercise such as postural drainage, vibration, coughing, huffing and percussion. Study group was given the same selected physiotherapy program provided to control group as well as thoracic kinesiotape three days per week for two weeks. Lung infiltrates were assessed using X-ray, respiratory function was assessed by digital spirometer, oxygen saturation was assessed by pulse oximeter, and respiratory distress presentations was assessed by Clinical Respiratory Score. All outcome measures were evaluated at baseline and post treatment. Results: Within group analysis revealed that a statistically significant improvements (P<0.05) were detected in respiratory rate, O2 saturation, clinical respiratory score, and pulmonary functions. Between groups analysis showed no significant improvements in all measured variables (P>0.05). Conclusion: In children with pneumonia, combining traditional chest physiotherapy with thoracic kinesiotaping had no impact, even though both groups improved after treatment compared to baseline values.