In this blog we review the first systematic review and meta-analysis conducted on the efficacy of Kinesiology taping (KT) for treating neck pain.
It’s from last year (2024) full reference at the end of the blog.
Neck pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal complaints worldwide, affecting up to 60% of people at some point in their lives. Whether from prolonged poor posture, injury, or mechanical strain, neck pain can significantly impair quality of life and function — and it often presents a challenge for long-term management. It just keeps coming back!
While widely used in sports and rehabilitation settings, the question remains: How effective is KT for neck pain?
The Study at a Glance
Researchers reviewed 10 high-quality studies (RCTs) involving 620 patients with various types of neck pain. Interventions were compared against conventional treatments and sham taping, with outcome measures including pain intensity and disability measures.
Key Findings
Pain Reduction
KT significantly reduced pain scores compared to both conventional therapy and sham taping.
The greatest benefits were observed in nonspecific neck pain and mechanical neck pain.
Four weeks of KT application produced the most pronounced results. One-week interventions were largely ineffective.
Functional Improvement
KT improved Neck Disability Index scores overall, especially for nonspecific neck pain.
For mechanical neck pain, improvements in disability scores were less pronounced, suggesting pain reduction does not always translate to functional gains.
Combinations Work Best (not different tape colours)
KT combined with other interventions (e.g., self-stretching exercises, postural correction, cervical stabilization) often outperformed KT alone.
Adding KT to exercise programs enhanced outcomes in pain, disability, and quality of life.
How does Tape work (as suggested in the review)
Proposed mechanisms include:
Pain modulation, via altered sensory input and improved proprioception.
Enhanced circulation and lymphatic drainage through skin lifting.
Mechanical support for muscles and joints without restricting movement.
Postural awareness cues that help reduce aggravating positions.
Behavior change: Interestingly, while KT offers measurable benefits, some effects may be partly due to placebo or increased patient engagement in movement.
What we can learn from this review:
Clinical Implications for Physiotherapists
Patient Selection Matters: KT appears most effective for nonspecific and mechanical neck pain and not for acute traumatic cases.
Duration is Key: For meaningful change, aim for at least a 4-week KT program, reassessing periodically.
Integrate, Don’t Isolate: KT should be part of a broader rehab plan including exercise therapy, posture correction, and ergonomic advice.
Set Realistic Expectations: Explain to patients that KT may reduce pain and improve comfort, but it’s not a standalone cure.
Limitations: The main limitation of the review is the variability in taping protocols and application styles, in fact the application styles were not shown in the review and in any case there would not of been any comparative data.
Conclusion
The current best evidence supports KT as a low-cost, and non-invasive tool for reducing pain and, to a lesser degree, disability in patients with nonspecific and mechanical neck pain — especially when used consistently over four weeks and alongside active rehabilitation strategies.
Reference:
Hu, Q., Liu, Y., Yin, S., Zou, H., Shi, H. and Zhu, F., 2024. Effects of Kinesio taping on neck pain: A meta-analysis and systematic review of randomized controlled trials. Pain and Therapy, 13, pp.1031–1046. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40122-024-00635-0