Acute Effects of Kinesiology Taping on Performance in Soccer Players

Kinesiological taping, also known as elastic bandaging, is a treatment method developed by Kenzo Kase in 1973. Kinesiological tape (KT) application is a technique aimed at improving muscle function by strengthening weakened muscles, providing cutaneous stimulation that facilitates or restricts movement, reducing edema by directing fluid to lymphatic channels and lymph nodes, correcting joint position to alleviate muscle spasms, and reducing pain through neural pathways.

Sports and functional performance, which is the result of the interaction of many mental and physical factors, includes fundamental components such as jumping, strength, endurance, and flexibility. One of the most important factors for improving and maximizing athletic performance is the development of physical abilities. With the increasing use of KT among both elite and amateur athletes in recent years, studies on the effect of KT on sports performance have also increased, but different results have been reported.

Although KT has shown various effects on sports injuries, pain reduction, range of motion, and muscle strength, the results of studies on performance determinants are contradictory. A review of the literature reveals uncertainty regarding the application method and mechanisms of action of KT. It is noteworthy that inconsistencies exist. Therefore, further studies and evidence are needed to confirm the effectiveness of kinesiological taping.

Therefore, one of the aims of our study is to contribute to the literature by investigating the effectiveness of kinesiological taping. Additionally, we aim to demonstrate the effectiveness of a methodology addressing the confusion and uncertainty surrounding parameters such as the application method and tension of the taping technique, and to provide data based on the literature regarding the application method and results of kinesiological taping techniques.

• Kinesiology Taping (Other): Quadriceps kinesiology taping using muscle technique.
• Sham Taping (Other): Sham taping applied to quadriceps (non-therapeutic application) to mimic taping without intended physiological effect.

Primary outcomes

• T-Agility test [Baseline and immediately after taping application (within 5 minutes)]: The T-test consists of four contact points formed in a T shape in an area 10m long and 10m wide. The aim of this test is to enable the subject to complete a series of tasks in the shortest possible time by moving in different directions and in different ways between these contact points. Unlike other agility tests, the subject always looks in the same direction. The change of direction is done by sliding steps to the right and left or by running backward. The test requires covering a total distance of 40m, consisting of two 90° turns and one 180° turn, as well as 10m forward, 10m to the right, 10m to the left, and 10m backward.
• 30 m Sprint time [Baseline and immediately after taping application (within 5 minutes)]: The 30-meter sprint test is a sprint assessment designed to measure an athlete's acceleration and maximum speed over a distance of 30 meters. In this test, the athlete starts in a stationary position and completes the 30 meters by sprinting. Times are usually recorded at 10 and 20 meters to allow for analysis of acceleration and speed development during the test.
• Standing long jump tests [Baseline and immediately after taping application (within 5 minutes)]: The aim is to jump the furthest possible distance without stepping (explosive power). Participants will stand behind the starting line with their feet shoulder-width apart and will be instructed to push off forcefully and jump as far forward as possible. The participant's feet must land simultaneously, and they must remain upright. The test will be performed twice, and the highest score, i.e., the greatest distance achieved, will be used for analysis. If participants fall backward or touch the ground with any other part of their body, they will be allowed another attempt.

Sex: Male, ages: 14 Years to 18 Years, accepts healthy volunteers

Inclusion Criteria:

* The participant must be a volunteer and have agreed to participate with a consent form.
* The participant must be between 14-18 years of age.
* The participant must have been a licensed soccer player for at least one year.

Exclusion Criteria:

* The participant must not wish to participate in the study.
* The participant must have a history of lower extremity injury in the last 12 months.
* The participant must have a severe cardiopulmonary, orthopedic, or neurological disease.
* The participant must have physical discomforts such as severe dizziness.
* The participant must have reported sensitivity to kinesiological tape.

• İrem Çetinkaya, PhD, Principal investigator, Haliç University