The effect of different tensions/directions of I-shaped taping in combination with corrective exercise on postural kyphosis in adolescents.

This article investigates the effects of different Kinesiotaping techniques combined with corrective exercises on postural kyphosis in adolescents. In a randomized controlled trial involving 54 adolescents with postural kyphosis, participants were assigned to three groups: corrective exercise alone (control), I-shaped Kinesiotaping with 10% stretch from insertion to origin (inhibition technique), and I-shaped Kinesiotaping with 40% stretch from origin to insertion (facilitation technique), with all groups performing the same exercise regimen over six weeks. Results showed significant within-group improvements in kyphosis angle across all groups measured by flexible ruler, kyphometer, and photogrammetry, but no significant differences were found between groups, indicating that corrective exercises alone effectively reduce postural kyphosis and that adding Kinesiotaping with different tensions or directions did not provide additional benefit. The study also found comparable accuracy among the three kyphosis measurement methods used. These findings suggest that motion therapy via corrective exercises is central to treating adolescent postural kyphosis, with Kinesiotaping serving as a supplementary approach.