The effect of elastic therapeutic taping and rigid taping on pain, functionality, and tissue temperature in lumbar radiculopathy: a randomized controlled study.

To compare the therapeutic effects of different taping materials and techniques on pain, functionality, and tissue temperature in patients with lumbar radiculopathy.

Methods

Patients with lumbar radiculopathy were included in the study (n = 51). Patients were randomly divided into three groups, which were the elastic taping (n = 17), rigid taping (n = 17), and placebo taping groups (n = 17). All patients were enrolled in a physiotherapy and rehabilitation program that included thermotherapy, electrotherapy, and exercise five times a week for 2 weeks. The pain was measured before and after treatment using the Visual Analogue Scale. Functionality and quality of life were measured using the Oswestry Low Back Pain Disability Questionnaire and Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire. The tissue temperature of the treated area in the lumbar region was measured by digital electronic infra-red thermography.

Results

After the treatment, pain, functionality, and quality of life were improved in all groups (p < 0.05). Elastic taping was more effective in decreasing pain and increasing functionality than placebo taping (p < 0.05), but no difference was observed between placebo taping and rigid tapping. Local tissue temperature did not change before and after treatment in the elastic taping group (p > 0.05). Tissue temperature increased in the rigid and placebo taping groups (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Taping therapy in patients with lumbar radiculopathy has a positive effect on pain and functional status. Elastic taping can be recommended for clinical use because its effect is superior in some recovery parameters and its ease of use.