This study aims to investigate the effects of Kinesio Taping (KT) on hand function in patients with Zone V-VI Extensor Digitorum Communis (EDC) tendon injuries following primary repair. Extensor tendon injuries in this region often lead to complications such as adhesion formation, reduced range of motion, extensor lag, and impaired hand function, despite standard rehabilitation approaches. Therefore, additional interventions that may enhance tendon gliding and neuromuscular control are of clinical interest. In this double-blind randomized controlled trial, patients will be assigned to either a KT group or a sham taping control group. Both groups will receive a standardized postoperative rehabilitation program, while the intervention group will additionally receive KT applications between postoperative weeks 6 and 12. Outcome measures, including range of motion, grip and pinch strength, and functional hand performance, will be assessed at 12 and 24 weeks. The study seeks to determine whether KT provides additional benefits beyond conventional rehabilitation in improving functional recovery after extensor tendon injuries, addressing an important gap in the current literature.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
DOUBLE
Enrollment
36
Button-Hole Technique (Affected finger(s)) I-Strip Technique (Support for all metacarpal bones) Supportive Tape Application
Sham Button-Hole Technique (Affected finger(s)) Sham I-Strip Technique (Support for all metacarpal bones) Sham Supportive Tape Application
Pamukkale University
Denizli, Kınıklı, Turkey (Türkiye)
Finger ROM Measurement
With the wrist in a neutral position, active flexion and extension movements of the metacarpophalangeal (MCP), proximal interphalangeal (PIP), and distal interphalangeal (DIP) joints will be measured using a metal finger goniometer.
Time frame: Post operative at 12 and 24 weeks
Assessment of Gross Grip and Pinch Strength
Gross grip strength will be measured using a hand dynamometer, and pinch strength will be measured in four different positions (tip, pulp, lateral, and three-point pinch) using a pinch meter (Jamar® Hydraulic Dynamometer-Pinchmeter, Serial No: 1420513), according to the standard measurement protocol of the American Society of Hand Therapists.
Time frame: Post operative at 12 and 24 weeks
Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire
The MHQ was developed to measure health status in patients with hand deformities and assesses how well patients perform their usual activities. Each question is scored on a 5-point Likert scale. The total score is calculated by summing all domain scores and dividing by six. Higher scores indicate better outcomes. The questionnaire will be administered by the researchers through face-to-face interviews using a question-and-answer format
Time frame: Post operative at 12 and 24 weeks
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