Unger M.1, Pretorius R.1, Scheepers K.1, Pronk S.1, Fernandes N.1, Robinson A.1, Carstens J.1
1Stellenbosch University, Physiotherapy, Stellenbosch, South Africa
Background: Children with CP present with neurological deficits in coordination and the integration of sensory information. Kinesio-taping (KT) is a relatively new technique, and when applied correctly may facilitate or inhibit muscle activity, support weak muscles and provide proprioceptive feedback to maintain body alignment.
Purpose: To critically appraise, evaluate and establish the best available evidence for the effectiveness of kinesio taping combined with physiotherapy to improve gross motor function in children with CP.
Methods: The researchers searched seven computerized databases including; Cochrane Library, Ebcost Host (CINAHL, Pre-CINAHL), Google Scholar, PEDro, Pubmed, Science direct and Scopus. The search terms used included: Cerebral Palsy, Physiotherapy OR Physical therapy, Kinesiotaping OR KT Taping OR Kinesiology Tape OR Taping, Gross Motor Function. Articles included had to meet specific criteria. The studies were appraised using the PEDro scale. The Revman© Review Manager Software was used to determine combined effects as measured by GMFM and WeeFIM, related to gross motor function in sitting and standing and activities of daily living (ADLs). The results are reported as means and standard deviations. Where pooling of data was possible forest plots were used and all other data was described narratively.
Results: Three level IIB randomised controlled trials that scored between four and six out of eight on the PEDro scale, were included in the review. Meta-analysis showed taping to significantly improve gross motor function in sitting and standing as measured by the GMFM(B) (p=0.0008) and GMFM(D) (p=0.002) respectively; and activities of daily living (ADLs) as measured by the WeeFIM (p=0.003).
Conclusion(s): KT applied to children with CP (GMFCS Level I and II) has moderate evidence (level II) for effectiveness in improving gross motor function when used as an adjunct to physiotherapy. Further research is required to better understand the short and long term effects of KT. We propose more n=1 studies which will assist in better understanding of KT that could facilitate decision making as to its utility in a variety of clinical settings.
Implications: Taping as an adjunct to physiotherapy when treating children with CP is indicated especially when targeting sitting postural control which allows for improved functional task performance. The method of application should be considered carefully. Although KT is relatively inexpensive, the tape needs to be replaced every 3 days which, in a poor resourced setting, can become quite costly.
Funding acknowledgements: Self-funded
Topic: Paediatrics
Ethics approval: This is secondary research - no ethical review was required.
All authors, affiliations and abstracts have been published as submitted.
