Effect of Kinesio taping on clinical symptoms in people with fibromyalgia: A randomized clinical trial

BACKGROUND: Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is a disorder characterized by chronic widespread pain and muscle soreness. Because of its high prevalence, many therapeutic approaches have been proposed with the aim of improving overall physical function and reducing pain. Since low adherence is one of the major limitations among these patients, treatments that do not interfere with their daily routines, such as KT, would be a feasible option. OBJECTIVE: The main goal of this study was to analyze the effect of Kinesio Tape (KT) on pain, posture, body comfort and quality of life (QoL) in people with FMS. METHODS: Thirty-five women (between 17 and 70 years of age) with FMS were randomly allocated to two treatment groups, depending on the location of the KT: "Upper trunk group" (UTG) (n = 18) and "Global trunk group" (GTG) (n = 17). The intervention period lasted 3 weeks. Pain, comfort, trunk posture and QoL were assessed before and after the intervention. RESULTS: Both KT treatments were effective in reducing pain and improving neck and shoulder comfort (p < 0.05). The GTG achieved a significant improvement in thoracic comfort (p < 0.05), whereas the UTG experienced a significant improvement in non-dominant side trunk posture and showed a significant improvement in the QoL score (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: GT and UT KT applications have positive effects on patients with FMS and may be considered as a suitable treatment option among this population.