Effects of Kinesiology Taping in Individual with Ankle Instability – A Literature Review

<p><em><span>Ankle instability, a persistent issue often resulting from repeated sprains, can significantly diminish stability and increase the likelihood of further injury. In recent years, Kinesiology Taping (KT) has emerged as a potential non-invasive technique aimed at improving balance and stability without restricting joint mobility, making it a popular choice in rehabilitation settings. Despite its growing use, the efficacy of KT in managing ankle instability remains under debate due to variations in application techniques and the inconsistency of results across studies. This literature review seeks to assess the effectiveness of KT in alleviating ankle instability and to provide insights that could guide clinical practice while promoting better patient outcomes, particularly in reducing the risk of re-injury. The review follows PRISMA guidelines, involving a comprehensive search of randomized controlled trials published between January 2014 and July 2024 across databases such as PEDro, PubMed, and Google Scholar. To ensure the quality of the studies included, the PEDro scale was used to evaluate the risk of bias. The findings suggest that KT may contribute to improving balance and stability, though its effectiveness depends significantly on the method of application and the duration of its use. Some studies demonstrate substantial improvements with specific taping techniques, while others reveal minimal differences compared to placebo or control groups. Although further research, particularly with larger sample sizes and standardized protocols, is needed to substantiate these findings, current evidence points to KT's potential benefits. Overall, KT could serve as an effective intervention for enhancing balance and preventing further injury in individuals with ankle instability when applied correctly and for adequate durations.</span></em></p>