Effect of corrective calcaneal Kinesio-tape on pain, function and sonography of plantar fasciitis in adolescents with pronated foot: a randomized controlled trial.

Abstract

The long-term effect of corrective calcaneal kinesio-taping on adolescents with pronated feet and its influence on structural changes of the plantar fascia have not been studied before. This study investigated the efficacy of long-term application of corrective Kinesio-taping compared to an exercise program on pain, function, and structural changes within the plantar fascia in adolescents with pronated feet. Using a randomized controlled trial design, 36 adolescents with pronated feet were randomized into 2 groups with a 1:1 ratio, the experimental (<i>n</i> = 18) and the control (<i>n</i> = 18). Within a 6-week time frame, the experimental group received 6 weeks of corrective calcaneal Kinesio-tapping, while the control group performed a home exercise program. The experimental group demonstrated significant improvement in pain intensity, foot function, plantar fascial structural echotexture, thickness, and vascularity compared to the control group (<i>p</i> < 0.05); however, no significant difference was noted between groups regarding vascularity (<i>p</i> > 0.05). Long-term corrective kinesio-taping has a significant effect on pain severity, foot function, and the structural abnormalities resulting from faulty mechanics in those patients as it focuses not only on symptom management but also on the pathology and improper foot mechanics.