Do Taping and Orthosis Affect Pain, Gait, or Functionality in Mild Knee Osteoarthritis?

Objective: The aim of this study was to compare the effects of elastic taping, rigid taping, and braces applied to women with mild knee Osteoartritis(OA) on pain, gait, and knee functionality.Methods: This randomised study included 21 female patients (mean age of 53.81±6.20 years) with bilateral grade 2 knee OA according to the Kellgren & Lawrence Classification. Pain was evaluated with the visual analog scale, functionality was evaluated with the Western Ontario McMaster Osteoarthritis Index, and the kinetic, kinematic, and spatiotemporal parameters were evaluated using a three-dimensional gait analysis system at baseline (no application) and immediately after the application of elastic taping, rigid taping, and orthoses. The dependent variables were measured after 45 minute the application of four different conditions neutral, elastic taping, rigid taping, and knee brace on each participant with 1-day intervals.

Inclusion Criteria:bilateral knee OA according to the criteria of the American College of Rheumatologyhad radiographically phase 2 based on the criteria identified by Kellgren & Lawrence-, had active knee paindid not receive any knee treatment in the last yearcould understand test and evaluationsExclusion Criteria:experienced lower extremity trauma or underwent surgeryhad phase 3-4 Osteoarthritishad any orthopedic or neurologic problem affecting walkingwere allergic to tapingdid not walk independently on their own