The Effects of Kinesio Taping on the Upper Extremity Motor Function, Pain, General Health and Depression in Acute Stroke Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Phase: NA
Conditions: Acute Ischemic Stroke, Upper Extremity Hemiplegia, Kinesio Taping
Sponsor: Koç University

STUDY PROTOCOL
Official Study Title:
Effects of Kinesio Taping on Upper Extremity Motor
Function, Pain, General Health and Depression in
Acute Stroke Patients: A Randomized Controlled
Trial
NCT Number: To be assigned
Document Date: November 2025
Sponsor: Koç University
Principal Investigator: Havvanur Albayrak, MD
Study Location: SB Istanbul Education and Research
Hospital
1. Background and Rationale
This randomized controlled trial was conducted to evaluate the clinical effects of kinesio taping applied
to the upper extremity in patients with acute ischemic stroke presenting with flaccid motor tone. The
study investigates whether kinesio taping provides additional benefit beyond standard rehabilitation.
2. Objectives
Primary: To assess changes in Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA) upper extremity subscores.
Secondary: To evaluate changes in Brunnstrom stages, pain (VAS), functional status (HAQ), and
depression (BDI).
3. Study Design
Prospective, randomized, controlled, parallel-group clinical trial with two arms: 1) Kinesio Taping, 2)
Sham Taping.
4. Participants
Inclusion criteria: Adults aged 50–80, acute ischemic stroke within 6 months, Brunnstrom Stage 1
upper extremity.
Exclusion criteria: Hemorrhagic stroke, upper limb surgery, severe shoulder pain, neurological
comorbidities.

5. Interventions
Kinesio taping applied to the dorsum of the hand and forearm with ~25% tension.
Sham taping applied without tension and without crossing joints.
Both groups received standard rehabilitation.
6. Outcome Measures
Primary: FMA subscores (Shoulder-Elbow-Forearm, Wrist, Hand, Sitting Position, Total UE Score).
Secondary: Brunnstrom staging, VAS, HAQ, BDI.
7. Statistical Analysis
Non-parametric tests used for within-group and between-group comparisons. Significance level p<0.05.
8. Ethical Considerations
Study approved by institutional review board. All participants provided informed consent.
9. Timeline
Start Date: June 2018. Completion: December 2018.