The Effect of Kinesio Taping of Quadriceps Muscle on the Balance of Non-Elite Football Players After a Local Fatigue Induced Protocol

Background: Previous studies have shown detrimental effects of muscle fatigue on balance. Also they have reported the effects of kinesio taping (KT) on postural control, joint support, and muscle function. However, no studies have been conducted so far to assess the immediate effects of KT after local muscle fatigue on balance. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine whether KT improves the Y-balance test scores after quadriceps fatigue. Methods: Fifty healthy male athletes (18-35 years old) participated in this quasiexperimental study and were randomly allocated to one of the two groups. The control group received only a fatigue protocol and the KT group received both quadriceps KT and the fatigue protocol. The balance of the subjects was assessed by a Y-balance test before and after the interventions. Results: The results revealed a significant decrease in Y-balance test scores after interventions in both groups. The KT group showed better scores in Y-balance test in all directions compared to the control. Conclusion: The study confirmed the positive effect of KT on balance after a fatigue protocol in athletes. We conclude that the application of KT can be an effective intervention for improving balance after induced fatigue in athletes.