The Effect of Dynamic and Rigid Tape Application on the Asymmetry of the Lower Limbs

This is a prospective randomized three brachial, single-blinded, placebo-controlled trial, which aims at assessing the impact of the gluteal muscle taping with a dynamic tape and a non-elastic tape on the activation of the gluteal muscles and the distribution of the lower limb load in healthy people.

The study participants will be randomly classified into the following groups: A - dynamic kinesiology taping, B - rigid tape, C - placebo group (sham). Patients will be evaluated three times - before applying the tapes, 30 minutes after applying the tapes and 48 hours after applying the tapes.

The gluteus maximus is the largest and strongest muscle in the human body. Its function is primarily to extend the hip joint. The back fibers of the gluteus medius and gluteus minimus muscles provide the additional help. These muscles also perform the functions of abductors and external rotators of the hip joint.

The incorrect strength and activation time of the muscles stabilizing the hip joint result in the disturbed load distribution of the lower limbs. This may cause the overloading of the bone and muscle structures. Disorders of the functions of the external hip rotators and abductors may lead to such health problems as: patellofemoral conflict, ilio-tibial band syndrome or non-specific pains of the hip, knee, sacroiliac and lumbar spine. Neurological diseases, such as stroke, causing paresis of the limbs, accompanied by a decrease or increase in muscle tone and disturbed load distribution, are also an obstacle to gait re-education and limit the efficiency of everyday activities.

Dynamic tapes were created by Kenso Kase MD in Japan. Their characteristic feature is extensibility reaching 130-140 percent. The tape is based on sensory effects on fascia mechanoreceptors. Depending on the slicing technique used, the following effects can be achieved: the activation or reduction of muscle tone, the reduction of pain and an increased flow of tissue fluids.

The concept of using a rigid tape was created and developed by Jenny McConnell. A characteristic feature of a rigid tape is the lack of stretchability, thanks to which mechanical stabilization of a specific section of the body can be achieved. The effects of using a rigid tape include: the reduction of pain, the activation or reduction of muscle tone, and the correction of joint components.

For many years, research has been conducted into the effects of using a dynamic tape and a rigid tape on the muscle functions. In many cases, reports from various authors are contradictory. There is also a lack of publications assessing the effect of a tape on the buttock muscle activation and the associated lower limb load distribution. There is therefore a need for further research.

The aim of the project is to assess the impact of gluteal muscle taping with a dynamic tape and a rigid tape on the distribution of lower limb load in healthy people. The confirmation of research hypotheses will allow for the introduction of a new therapy tool in neurological patients (e.g. after stroke), but also healthy people, to prevent a lower limb and spine structures overloading.

Eligibility Criteria:
Inclusion Criteria:

* not using non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for at least one week prior to testing,
* age - 19-24 years old

Exclusion Criteria:

* spine, hip, knee or ankle surgery,
* spine, hip, knee or ankle injuries within 6 months before the start of the examination,
* neurological and otolaryngological diseases, which may result in imbalances.