Comparison of Effectiveness of Mechanical Hold Versus Kinesio Taping in Managing Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is a common problem of runners leading to pain and functional limitation in athletes. Patellar taping is increasingly popular method of treatment for PFPS but comparative effectiveness especially McConnell's taping (MT) and Kinesio taping (KT) techniques is unknown. Objective: The intentions of this study were to find and compare effects of McConnell's taping (MT) and Kinesio taping (KT) in management of PFPS. Methods: A quasi experimental study was conducted by recruiting 60 patients of PFPS using convenience sampling technique. Participants were randomly divided into two groups MT and KT group and received patellar taping on daily basis for MT and on alternate days for KT group. Assessment was done using numeric rating pains scale and range of motion before treatment, immediately after 1st session, after 1 week and after 2 weeks of rehabilitation. After 2 weeks data was entered on SPSS v.21 and Analysis was done. Results: Mean Age in Kinesio taping (KT) was 28.40±4.74 and in McConnell's taping (MT)group was 28.17.70± 4.684. Within the group analysis showed that both techniques were effective in reducing pain intensity, improving range of motion and improving anterior knee pain scale scores (p-value < 0.05). However, independent sample t-test analysis determined that there was not any particular difference between the results of both aping techniques and p-value > 0.05 that proves our null that there is no difference between the effects of KT and MT in treating PFPS. Conclusion: KT and MT both are equally effective techniques for management of PFPS and important in decreasing pain and disability. However further studies are required with control groups to measure additional effects of exercise therapy.