Immediate Effects of Mulligan Mobilization and Kinesio Taping Techniques Applied with Combined Physical Therapy on Pain and Functional Status in Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis

Aim: The goal of the study was to examine the immediate impact of a combined physical therapy regimen and mobilization on pain, functional ability, and disability in individuals with knee osteoarthritis. Methods: Pain intensity was evaluated by Visual Analog Scale (VAS), disability by WOMAC Osteoarthritis Index, and function by functional tests. The individuals included in the study were randomly divided into two groups. The control group received a single session of conventional physical therapy, while the study group received 3 sets of Mulligan mobilization technique (MWM), one set of 10 repetitions in addition to this treatment. Then, internal rotation taping was applied to the study group. Outcome measurements were repeated after the treatment. Results: A total of 40 patients with knee osteoarthritis participated in this study. No significant differences were found between the study and control groups regarding demographic information (p>0.05). Significant changes were observed in all measured parameters within both groups (p<0.05). Although there was a statistically significant difference between the groups in pain evaluation (p=0.002), no significant differences were identified in functional tests or disability measures (p>0.05). Conclusion: Mulligan MWM technique and internal rotation taping in addition to conventional treatment were found to be more effective on pain compared to the group treated with conventional treatment alone. Adding MWM technique and taping to the routine treatment of OA may increase the success of treatment.