Acute Effects of Kinesiology Taping on Performance in Volleyball Players

Overview

Kinesiological tape is frequently used to provide support for injured muscles and joints, enhance fascial function, inhibit pain-inducing stimuli, and improve blood and lymph circulation. However, there is no consensus among researchers and practitioners regarding kinesiological taping, particularly its application to improve athletic performance. This study aimed to investigate the acute changes in functional performance of volleyball players who underwent kinesiological taping. Designed as a randomized controlled experimental study, it planned to include 24 licensed female volleyball players from Anadolu Marmara Sports Schools. Players meeting the inclusion criteria were randomized into kinesiological tape (n:12) and sham (dummy-ineffective) tape (n:12) groups. The assessment will consist of a general warm-up program followed by the single-arm hop test for upper extremity strength, speed, and stability; the closed kinetic chain upper extremity endurance test for strength and endurance; and the medicine ball throw test for functional strength. Following the initial assessment, tests will be repeated immediately after facilitative taping of the pectoralis major and anterior deltoid muscles of the athletes. SPSS 24 statistical program will be used for data analysis. Continuous variables will be presented as mean ± standard deviation, and qualitative variables as number and percentage (%). If the assumptions for parametric tests are met, the Independent Samples t-test will be used for comparing independent groups, and the Paired Samples t-test will be used for comparing dependent groups. If the assumptions for parametric tests are not met, the Mann-Whitney U test will be used for comparing independent groups, and the Wilcoxon test will be used for comparing dependent groups. Statistical significance will be accepted at p≤0.05. This study is expected to contribute to performance-enhancing practices in volleyball players by providing evidence-based data on the application method and effectiveness of kinesiological taping for functional performance.

Kinesiological tape (KT), developed in the 1970s, has been used in the treatment of various lesions ever since. Its use began to spread after it was first applied to athletic performance at the 2008 Summer Olympics. KT, a narrow strip that can stretch up to 140% of its original length due to its flexible structure, is reported to be effective in reducing movement restriction, increasing proprioceptive input, and stimulating cutaneous mechanoreceptors to reduce pain. KT is waterproof, heat-resistant, hypoallergenic, elastic, and compatible with human skin. Technically, unlike other tapes, it can be used directly and remain firmly in the tissue for several days. Thus, it is used comfortably and practically in daily life without damaging the skin and without the need for an additional tape. Kinesiological tape has become more widespread in the field of sports, especially in the last decade, by stretching and offering freedom of movement to the tissue. Kase, the inventor of the tape, stated that KT stimulates large-scale motor activity after cutaneous stimulation. Research into the effects of KT (Taping Techniques) on athletic performance has increased, particularly due to reports that it reaches neurons, facilitates muscle function, and increases muscle tone. KT is thought to both reduce muscle spasms and improve muscles with reduced muscle activation by maintaining optimal muscle tension levels. While KT is considered a method with the potential to regulate muscle activity, support postural control, and improve functional movements, its effects may vary between individuals, and there are contradictions in the results of current scientific data. KT is thought to improve important performance components such as explosive power and endurance by increasing skin tactile input and activating fascial release mechanisms. However, the results of applied methods have been controversial because the application time and method required to enhance the effect of KT have not been clearly determined. While evidence suggests that KT may be effective in increasing instantaneous power, it is thought that different time periods show maximum effect for each muscle. The variability in the effectiveness of KT on performance determinants, especially differences in control groups and the methods used in taping techniques, are relevant factors. Different strategies may have resulted from heterogeneity in the individuals included in the studies and insufficient sample sizes. Our study aims to provide evidence-based data to the literature and increase the level of evidence by supporting similar studies, taking into account the confusion regarding the applicability and application method of kinesiological tape in athletes. In volleyball players, upper extremity strength, endurance, speed, and agility parameters are important determinants of performance. Especially in the successful execution of basic athletic patterns such as hitting the ball, blocking, and serving, the strength and endurance of the shoulder and elbow muscles are particularly prominent. Although the use of kinesiological taping is widespread among volleyball players, there are a limited number of studies in the literature. In volleyball players with ankle instability, kinesiological taping was applied to different muscle groups of the lower extremity, and it was found that the tape applied with tension was more effective in increasing balance and functions compared to the tape applied without tension. Another study investigating the acute effect of kinesiological taping applied to the hip adductor muscle group on performance in female volleyball players... The study reported that tape positively affects endurance, strength, and agility, and improves performance. Although current studies show that tape applied to volleyball players can be effective in improving performance, conflicting and inconsistent results can lead to application errors and confusion among clinicians and field experts. To obtain optimal results from the tape application, the tape must be applied to the correct muscle groups using a valid and effective method. Therefore, there is a need for more evidence-based data on this subject, and for randomized controlled trials planned with high-quality and large sample groups. In this context, our study, which aims to contribute to the literature, serves as a guide for field experts and athletes.