The Acute Effect of Kinesiological Taping for Scapular Stabilization on Performance in Wheelchair Basketball Players

This study aimed to investigate the acute effects of kinesiological taping for scapular stabilization on performance in WB players.

This study included 32 male WB players. Participants were divided into two groups through stratified randomization based on their classification. The first group received kinesiological taping for scapular stabilization, while the second group received placebo taping. 20 m test with and without the ball was used for speed, T-test and pick-up the ball test for agility, medicine ball test for strength, slalom test for endurance, accurate pass, layup and point shot tests were used to evaluate passing and shooting. Assessments were conducted before taping and 24 hours after taping. The first tape was applied with 75% tension from the inferior angle of the scapula to the acromion to support scapular elevation. The second tape was applied with 75% tension from the medial border of the scapula to the upper trapezius to reduce upper trapezius tension. The third tape was applied with 75% tension from the inferior angle of the scapula to the cervical spine to support scapular retraction and adduction. In the control group, two strips of tape were applied to the acromioclavicular joint and lower trapezius muscle without tension.

In both the stabilization and placebo taping groups, there were significant differences in the 20 m sprint (with and without the ball), pick-up the ball, medicine ball throw(p0.001), T-test, lay-up, and passing accuracy tests(p0.01) before and after taping. Additionally, a significant difference was found in the point shot test in the placebo group (p0.05). Comparing the groups after taping, the stabilization group showed a statistically significant advantage in the 20 m sprint (with the ball), pick-up the ball, and point shot tests, while the placebo group had better results in the slalom test(p0.05). However, no significant differences between the two groups were found when comparing pre- and post-taping values.

This study concluded that both scapular stabilization and placebo taping had an acute effect on performance in wheelchair basketball players, however no superiority of methods. Further research should explore the long-term effects of these taping techniques. Additionally, glenohumeral joint stabilization within the scapulohumeral rhythm also plays a critical role in performance. Therefore, future studies should investigate the effects of shoulder stabilization taping on performance.
 

The impact of the shoulder girdle, including the scapulothoracic joint, on WB performance is significant. While taping's effect on performance was demonstrated in this study, the placebo taping also showed an impact. Therefore, it is crucial to thoroughly assess athletes and select appropriate taping techniques and suitable athletes before applying taping.