Efficacy of kinesiotaping during rehabilitation following total knee arthroplasty: a prospective randomised controlled trial

OBJECTIVE: To determine whether adding kinesiotaping to standard inpatient rehabilitation reduces early postoperative swelling and improves function after total knee arthroplasty. DESIGN: Prospective, randomized, controlled clinical trial. PATIENTS: 136 randomized post-total knee arthroplasty inpatients; 102 completed (kinesiotaping n = 51; control n = 51). METHODS: Both groups received a standardized 3-week programme. Kinesiotaping was applied by a trained physician following K-Active protocols from postoperative day 10 to day 25. The primary outcome was change in knee circumference (cm) from day 10 to day 25. Secondary outcomes were numeric rating scale pain, passive range of motion, and functional tests (Timed Up and Go, chair stand, 10-m walk). RESULTS: Swelling reduction was greater with kinesiotaping: mean change 2.1 (SD 1.7) cm vs 0.9 (1.4) cm; mean difference 1.2 cm (95% CI 0.7-1.7), p < 0.001. Flexion gain was larger with kinesiotaping: 18.3° (7.7°) vs 14.4° (10.0°); mean difference 3.9° (95% CI 0.4-7.4), p = 0.03. Pain reduction and other secondary outcomes did not differ significantly. No kinesiotaping-related adverse events occurred. CONCLUSION: Kinesiotaping added to standard rehabilitation reduced early postoperative knee swelling and produced a small improvement in flexion after total knee arthroplasty. Further work should examine durability and patient-centred outcomes. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT06831682. Registration date: February 8, 2025.