Hyperelastic tape modifies the kinematics of the pronated foot in young women: self-controlled clinical trial

Abstract

Introduction: Excessive pronation has been linked to increased risk of developing lower limb injuries. In this respect, assessing the effectiveness of therapeutic resources, such as hyperelastic taping, becomes relevant. Objective: evaluate the influence of adhesive hyperelastic taping on excessive pronation of the anklefoot complex in young women. Method: Self-controlled clinical trial of ten women with excessive pronation (Foot Posture Index ≥ 6). Three-dimensional gait was assessed according to the Vicon Oxford Foot Model before and after taping. Hyperelastic tape was applied on the side with greater pronation (experimental side) and the opposite side was used as control (control side). The segments evaluated were the hindfoot, midfoot and forefoot. The Shapiro-Wilk normality, paired t and Wilcoxon tests were applied and Significance was set at p <0.05. Results: No change (p> 0.05) was observed in the hindfoot on the experimental or control side; the midfoot showed a decrease in arch height (p <0.05) only on the experimental side; forefoot eversion (p<0.05) declined only on the experimental side. Conclusion: The use of hyperelastic tape reduced forefoot eversion; however, this decrease is not clinically desirable, since excessive pronation in a closed chain increased in the sample of young women studied.