Short-Term Delayed Effects of Kinesio Taping on Muscular Activity and Throwing Velocity in Female Handball Players: A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Single-Blind, Crossover Study.

Abstract

Kinesio Taping (KT) is widely used in athletic settings to enhance performance, yet its short-term effects on muscular activity and sport-specific tasks remain unclear. This study examined the short-term delayed effects of KT on muscular activity and throwing velocity in female handball players. Seventeen amateur female handball players were randomly assigned to either a KT or placebo tape group using a crossover design. KT was applied with an inhibition technique to muscles of the throwing arm, while the placebo group received similar taping without any specific technique. Surface electromyographic (sEMG) activity and throwing velocity were measured at baseline, 1, 24, and 48 hours post-taping, with a seven-day wash-out period between KT and placebo tape treatments. Results revealed a significant time effect on sEMG activity in the biceps brachii and triceps brachii, as well as a time-by-group interaction for the flexor carpi ulnaris (FCU). Additionally, a significant time and time-by-group interaction effect was detected on throwing velocity. Our findings suggest that KT may enhance throwing velocity in female handball players. Additionally, KT may exert a localized neuromuscular effect, as it significantly affected sEMG activity only in the FCU among the muscles examined. Future research should explore the delayed and prolonged effects of KT on elite-level and/or male athletes to further validate and expand these findings in the athletic setting.