Comparative Analysis of Kinesiology Taping Vs Rigid Taping with Iastm in Shoulder Impingement Syndrome among Cricket Players

Abstract Background: Shoulder Impingement Syndrome (SIS) is a prevalent condition among cricket players due to repetitive overhead movements, leading to pain, restricted range of motion, and compromised athletic performance. Various physiotherapeutic interventions, including Kinesiology Taping (KT), Rigid Taping (RT), and Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM), are employed to manage this condition. Methods: A total of 60 cricket players diagnosed with Stage I or II Shoulder Impingement Syndrome were randomly divided into two groups: Group A (KT + IASTM) and Group B (RT + IASTM). The interventions were administered three times per week for four weeks, and pre-, mid-, and post-intervention assessments were conducted using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI), Goniometry, Manual Muscle Testing (MMT), and a Dynamometer. Results: The findings revealed that Group A (KT + IASTM) exhibited significantly greater improvements in pain reduction (P < 0.001), functional recovery (P < 0.001), range of motion (P < 0.001), and muscle strength (P < 0.001) compared to Group B. KT facilitated dynamic support, enhanced proprioception, and improved neuromuscular activation, while RT, despite offering structural stability, restricted movement and delayed recovery. Conclusion: Kinesiology Taping combined with IASTM proved to be a more effective rehabilitation strategy for SIS in cricket players than Rigid Taping with IASTM. These results suggest that KT should be preferred over RT in sports rehabilitation to enhance pain relief, mobility, and overall athletic performance.