The effect of Kinesiology Taping on hand function in patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis

The aim of the research. To evaluate the effect of Kinesiology Taping on hand function in patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis. The goals of the research. 1. To estimate the changes of hand function applying Kinesiology Taping and physical therapy. 2. To estimate the changes of hand function applying only physical therapy. 3. To compare the changes of hand function applying Kinesiology Taping and physical therapy, and physical therapy alone. The methods of the research. Wristʼs range of motion was measured by goniometry method, the handgrip strength was assessed using dynamometer. Modyfied Keitel function test and Arthritis Impact Measurement Scale was used to evaluate hand function. The participants of the research. The study involved 22 subjects (100 pct. women) who had Rheumatoid arthritis. Mean age - 61,18±1,34 years. Subjects were randomly divided into two groups: the research group consisted of 10 individuals, Kinesiology Taping was applied to them together with physical therapy, and the control group consisted of 15 individuals, only physical therapy procedures was applied to them. The physical therapy program lasted for 2 months (9 weeks), the procedures was performed three times a week. The evaluation was performed twice: before and after procedures. Conclusions: 1. After the physical therapy program the wristʼs range of motion, handgrip strength and hand function significantly increased when applying Kinesiology Taping and physical therapy (p<0.05). 2. After the physical therapy program the wristʼs range of motion, handgrip strength and hand function significantly increased when applying only physical therapy (p<0.05). 3. Wrist flexion of the right hand, wrist flexion and extension of the left hand, handgrip strenght of both hands and hand function measured by Modyfied Keitel function test were greater in the research group, where Kinesiology Taping was applyed together with physical therapy (p