Acute Effects of Different Upper Extremity Taping Techniques on Scapular Dyskinesis and Performance in Adolescent Basketball Players

The aim of this study was to compare the acute effects of dynamic taping, kinesio taping, and placebo taping applied to the upper extremity on scapular dyskinesis and sport-specific performance in adolescent male basketball players. A total of 45 active male basketball players aged 13–18 years were included and randomly assigned to dynamic taping (n=15), kinesio taping (n=15), or placebo groups (n=15). Scapular dyskinesis assessment, the Upper Extremity Y Balance Test, the medicine ball throw test, and the lay-up test were performed before taping and repeated immediately after the intervention. In the kinesio taping group, significant improvements were observed in medicine ball throw performance, lay-up performance, and most directions of the Upper Extremity Y Balance Test (p= .001–.023). Scapular dyskinesis scores also showed significant improvement (p=.003). In the dynamic taping group, significant enhancements were detected in overhead throwing distance, lay-up performance, and scapular dyskinesis parameters (p<.05), with particularly pronounced effects in lay-up performance and correction of scapular dyskinesis. In contrast, no significant changes were found in most performance and clinical parameters in the placebo group (p>.05). Between-group comparisons revealed significant differences in lay-up performance and scapular dyskinesis changes (p<.05). In conclusion, both dynamic and kinesio taping appear to provide immediate benefits in scapular control and sport-specific performance in adolescent basketball players, with dynamic taping demonstrating a more pronounced effect on performance outcomes.