Biomechanical effects of Kinesio versus Mulligan ankle taping on balance and ankle function in chronic STROKE: A randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to compare the effects of six weeks of Kinesio taping with treadmill training, Mulligan taping with treadmill training, and treadmill training alone on ankle dorsiflexion passive range of motion, balance, ankle stability, and fall efficacy in individuals with chronic stroke.

METHODS

Thirty-three individuals with chronic stroke were randomly assigned to three groups (n = 11 each). Interventions were applied for six weeks. Outcome measures included ankle dorsiflexion passive range of motion, static balance, dynamic balance, ankle stability, and fall efficacy, assessed before and after the intervention. Between-group differences were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance.

FINDINGS: Significant group differences were observed in ankle dorsiflexion passive range of motion, eyes-open static balance, dynamic balance, and ankle stability (p < .05). The Mulligan taping with treadmill training group showed greater improvement in ankle dorsiflexion passive range of motion than the treadmill-only group. The Mulligan taping with treadmill training and treadmill-only groups improved eyes-open static balance more than the Kinesio taping with treadmill training group. Both taping groups improved dynamic balance more than treadmill training alone. Ankle stability improved most in the Mulligan taping with treadmill training group. No significant differences were found in eyes-closed static balance or fall efficacy.

INTERPRETATION: Mulligan taping with treadmill training may improve ankle dorsiflexion range of motion and stability, while both taping interventions may enhance dynamic balance. Treadmill-based gait practice may contribute to eyes-open static balance improvement.