Arm function and muscle activity responses after using the Kinesio taping inhibitory technique

Purpose. This study aims at showing the effects in muscle activity and arm function under the influence of the inhibitory muscle technique of the Kinesio tape method in healthy muscles. Methods. Overall, 20 apparently healthy subjects underwent the procedures 3 times, in 3 different tape conditions: no tape, Kinesio tape, and non-elastic tape. The muscle activity was obtained in millivolts through electromyography on biceps brachii and deltoid during 3 specific tasks, and the arm function was determined in seconds with the Action research Arm Test, a standardized tool conceived to assess upper extremity function, divided into the subscales of grasp, grip, pinch, and gross movement. Results. The electromyography results and most of the Action research Arm Test dimensions did not show any statistically significant differences in any comparison ( p > 0.05) between the tape conditions. However, there could be a tendency to perform movements faster under the influence of the Kinesio tape, as implied in the dimensions of grip ( p = 0.01) and total ( p = 0.04) of the Action research Arm Test. Conclusions. The Kinesio tape inhibitory muscle technique and tape conditions did not evoke significant effects in muscle activity or arm function in apparently healthy muscles.