Effect of Kinesio Taping in Reducing Pain, Swelling and Trismus after Surgical Removal of Third Molar: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Abstract

Aim: The study aims to evaluate the efficacy of kinesio taping (KT) in reducing postoperative pain, swelling, and improving mouth opening following the surgical removal of mandibular third molars.

Materials and methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 66 participants split into two groups of 33 each undergoing surgical removal of a third molar. Preoperative mean mouth opening and swelling scores were recorded for all patients prior to surgery. Postoperatively, the study group received KT, while the control group did not. Both groups were assessed for postsurgical pain, swelling, and mouth opening for 1 week. Data were recorded and statistically analyzed.

Results: On postoperative day 2 and day 7, the study group's mean pain scores were 4.82 ± 7.2 and 1.56 ± 0.50, respectively, while the control group's scores were 7.32 ± 0.81 and 2.21 ± 0.69. Mean swelling scores for the study group were 129.51 ± 6.61 and 126.09 ± 6.65, compared to 142.91 ± 8.64 and 134.99 ± 8.16 in the control group. The interincisal opening was 36.94 ± 8.15 and 40.88 ± 7.31 in the study group, and 26.12 ± 4.22 and 36.59 ± 5.47 in the control group. All outcomes showed statistical significance with p < 0.05.

Conclusion: Kinesio taping is effective in reducing postsurgical symptoms, including pain, facial swelling, and limited mouth opening.

Clinical significance: This study highlights the need for nonpharmacological interventions to minimize postoperative morbidity following the surgical removal of mandibular third molars. Kinesio taping shows promise as a practical and effective method to improve patient recovery. How to cite this article: Jaiswal S, Neeli A. Effect of Kinesio Taping in Reducing Pain, Swelling and Trismus after Surgical Removal of Third Molar: A Randomized Controlled Trial. J Contemp Dent Pract 2025;26(10):1006-1010.