Original Research Article
Year: 2022 | Month: January | Volume: 12 | Issue: 1 | Pages: 13-22
DOI: https://doi.org/10.52403/ijhsr.20220103
Effect of Scapular Kinesiotaping as an Adjunct to Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization Exercises on Upper Extremity Functions in Stroke Patients
Rutuja Jadhav1, Shamla Pazare2
1Assistant Professor, St. Andrews College of Physiotherapy, Pune, Maharashtra, India.
2HOD and Professor, Chaitanya Medical Foundation’s College of Physiotherapy, Pune, Maharashtra, India.
Corresponding Author: Rutuja Jadhav
ABSTRACT
Background and Purpose: Stroke is one of the leading causes of death and disability in India. Upper extremities get more affected in Middle cerebral artery syndrome. Stroke patients have lack of functional ability of upper extremity due to scapular malalignment resulting from paralysis of the scapular muscles. Kinesiotape helps to realign the muscles and thus it becomes easy to activate or inhibit them. We hypothesised that Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilisation exercises along with kinesiotape could improve upper extremity function.
Methodology: Ethical clearance was obtained. Informed consent was taken. 30 patients were selected according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. 15 subjects were randomly divided into experimental and control group. Subjects were given Dynamic neuromuscular stabilisation exercises for scapular strengthening. The experimental group was given Kinesiotaping to the scapula using muscle technique. Pre and post treatment assessment was done using Upper Extremity Function Index, grip strength and scapular abduction position with MB ruler.
Result: The intergroup comparison revealed a highly significant difference for upper extremity function index and grip strength whereas scapular abduction was not significant.
Conclusion: The Scapular Kinesiotaping as an adjunct to Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization Exercises is significantly effective to improve upper extremity functions and grip strength in post stroke patients.
Key words: Stroke, Upper Extremity Functions, Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization Exercises, Scapular Kinesiotaping.