Kinesiotaping on Hand Function in Computer Users

Istinye University34 enrolled

Overview

This study aims to investigate whether kinesio taping contributes to improved hand function in individuals who frequently use computers. The effectiveness of kinesio taping will be compared to sham taping in order to determine its impact. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups: a kinesio taping group or a sham taping group. Taping will be applied to the forearm. Functional assessments will be conducted at three time points: prior to taping, immediately after taping, and 30 minutes post-taping. The following evaluations will be performed: * Two-point discrimination test to assess touch sensitivity * Purdue Pegboard test to evaluate fine motor skills * Grip strength test using a hand dynamometer * Visual reaction time test utilizing a light-based device All procedures will be completed in a single study session.

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Allocation

RANDOMIZED

Purpose

TREATMENT

Masking

DOUBLE

Enrollment

Conditions

Computer-user Training

Interventions

The participant will be seated upright in a chair with the elbow flexed at 90 degrees. The forearm under examination will be placed in a pronated position, and the wrist will be maintained in a neutral position. I-shaped kinesio taping will be applied as described by Mohammadi et al. Prior to taping, the extensor surface will be cleaned using a cotton swab moistened with alcohol. The tape length will be measured from a point 2 cm distal to the lateral epicondyle to the radial styloid process. Each end of the tape will be 2 cm in length (totaling 4 cm for both ends). To achieve 35% tension, the following formula will be used: (L - 4) / 1.35 + 4. In this formula, L represents the total length of the tape, 4 is the combined length of the two tape ends, and 1.35 corresponds to the factor required to achieve the desired 35% tension.

Eligibility

Sex: ALLMin age: 18 YearsMax age: 50 YearsHealthy volunteers:

Medical Language ↔ Plain English

Inclusion Criteria: * Participants must use a computer ≥ 2 hours per day. * Participants must be between the ages of 18 and 50. * If the participants are employed, they must not have changed professions in the last 6 months. * If the participants are students, their student status must have been ongoing for at least 6 months. Exclusion Criteria: * A diagnosed history of neuropathy or common diseases associated with peripheral neuropathy. * Diagnosed musculoskeletal disorders related to the neck and upper extremities. * Presence of symptoms suggestive of nerve entrapment. * Having a condition that prevents the application of physical tests (e.g., limited range of joint motion, deformities, fractures, arthritis, etc.). * Allergic reaction to kinesiology tape.

Outcomes

Primary Outcomes

Two-point Discrimination

This test measures an individual's ability to perceive two closely spaced points touching the skin simultaneously, reflecting tactile spatial acuity. During the evaluation, the contact points will initially be set 14 mm apart, with the distance reduced by 1 mm at each step. Adjustments will continue until the participant can no longer distinguish two separate points. The final distance at which two points are still perceived as distinct will be recorded.

Time frame: Day 1

Fine Motor Skills

Purdue Pegboard Test will be used. The participant will be seated at a table with the pegboard placed directly in front of them. The test consists of four tasks: * Dominant Hand Task: The participant will insert as many pegs as possible into the holes using the dominant hand within 30 seconds. * Non-Dominant Hand Task: The same procedure will be repeated using the non-dominant hand. * Both Hands Task: Pegs will be inserted into the holes in pairs using both hands simultaneously over a 30-second period. * Assembly Task: Using both hands, the participant will assemble a sequence using pegs, washers, and collars for a duration of 60 seconds. The score will be determined by the number of pegs placed or sequences completed within the specified time limits.

Time frame: Day 1

Grip Strength

Maximum grip strength will be measured using a JAMAR Hydraulic Hand Dynamometer. The participant will be seated upright with the elbow flexed at 90 degrees, and the forearm and wrist maintained in a neutral position. Participants will be instructed to squeeze the dynamometer with maximum effort for five seconds. Three trials will be conducted, with a 30-second rest period between each attempt. The highest value obtained will be recorded as the maximum grip strength.

Time frame: Day 1

Reaction Time

Reaction time will be recorded using the BlazePod Trainer device. BlazePod is a wireless lighting system consisting of LED pods and a control unit. Participants will begin the test in a seated position, placing their hands on the table with palms facing downward and spaced 40 cm apart. The BlazePod will be positioned at the center of the table, 20 cm away from each hand, and will emit random light signals. Participants will be instructed to tap the illuminated pod as quickly as possible upon activation. The test will last for 15 seconds, and the average reaction time of all hits during the activity will be recorded

Time frame: Day 1

Kinesiotaping on Hand Function in Computer Users

Overview

Conditions

Interventions

Eligibility

Locations (1)

Outcomes

Primary Outcomes