Effectiveness of Kinesiotaping Combined with Task-Oriented Training on Shoulder Subluxation and Function in Patients with Traumatic Shoulder Instability:A Randomised Controlled Trial

Background: Traumatic shoulder instability affects 1-2% of the general population, with anterior instability accounting for over 95% of cases. Young males have recurrence rates exceeding 50% within two years of non-operative treatment, highlighting the need for effective rehabilitation strategies. Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of kinesiotaping combined with task-oriented training on shoulder subluxation and function in patients with traumatic shoulder instability. Methodology: This single-blinded randomized controlled trial evaluated the effectiveness of kinesiotaping combined with task-oriented training for reducing shoulder subluxation and improving function in traumatic shoulder instability. Ninety-two participants aged 18-35 years with clinically confirmed shoulder instability were randomized to an experimental group (kinesiotaping plus task-oriented training) or a control group (sham taping plus task-oriented training). Those participants who had previous shoulder surgery on the affected side, any diagnosed musculoskeletal condition, neurological conditions affecting upper limb function, allergy to Kinesiotape adhesive were excluded. Both groups completed three 60-minute sessions weekly for eight weeks. The primary outcome was acromiohumeral distance measured by ultrasonography; secondary outcomes included pain and rotator cuff muscle strength. Independent t-tests were used to compare between-group differences in change scores. Pearson’s correlation coefficients were calculated to examine relationships between improvements in acromiohumeral distance and changes in pain and muscle strength. Results: The experimental group showed significant improvements in all outcome measures (p<0.001): AHD increased from 6.8±1.3mm to 9.3±1.1mm, pain decreased from 7.2±1.5 to 3.1±1.6, and all rotator cuff muscles demonstrated strength gains. The control group showed modest improvements in pain and strength (p<0.05), with non-significant changes in AHD. Between-group analyses revealed significantly greater improvements in the experimental group for all measures (p<0.001). Conclusion: Kinesiotaping combined with task-oriented training effectively reduces shoulder subluxation and improves functional outcomes in patients with traumatic shoulder instability, demonstrating potential as a comprehensive rehabilitation approach.