Kinesio Taping and Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Patellofemoral pain syndrome occurs when there is a degeneration of the patellar cartilage between both bone surfaces of the femur and the patella. Its characteristic symptom is anterior knee pain that worsens when this joint is moved. The aim of the study was to determine the effectiveness of kinesio taping on patellofemoral pain syndrome through the analysis of published scientific studies up until June 2014. A literature search was carried out in the following electronic databases: Scopus, Sport Discus, PEDro, Cochrane Library Plus, Embase, Web of Science and Science Direct to locate studies that were relevant to this review. Out of 159 articles examined, after eliminating duplicates and upon completion of reading them, the review was finally reduced to 12 articles. After reviewing the literature regarding the effectiveness of kinesio taping on the improvement of knee pain, we concluded there is insufficient scientific evidence to support this theory. It is an inexpensive technique that can be combined with other therapies and has no side effects, but there is controversy in the analyzed studies on its possible benefits on the patellofemoral pain syndrome. For this reason, it is essential to carry out further methodologically sound research regarding the usefulness of kinesio taping in the treatment of this syndrome.

Keywords

• kinesio tape
• elastic tape
• chondromalacia patella
• knee pain