Kinesiotaping effects in patients with rotator cuff-related shoulder pain: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background Rotator cuff-related shoulder pain (RCRSP) is multifactorial; current guidelines prioritize education and active rehabilitation, while adjuncts such as Kinesiotaping (KT) remain controversial. Objective To update the evidence on KT in RCRSP (historically termed subacromial impingement syndrome) and quantify its effects on pain, function, and shoulder range of motion (ROM) compared with sham, no tape or other conservative interventions. Methods Five databases (MEDLINE, Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro), Cochrane Library, Rehabilitation, and Sports Medicine Source and SPORTDiscus) were searched from inception to 1 April 2026. The effects of KT treatment were calculated through the estimation of the effect size (ES) and its 95% confidence intervals. The risk of bias in the included studies was assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration's tool for assessing the risk of bias 2 (RoB 2). Results Thirty-nine RCTs (n = 2481) met the criteria. KT showed a small ES on the functionality of the injured shoulder, in addition to pain during activities. Conclusions KT offers, at best, small short-term benefits in shoulder function and pain during activity and night pain, with uncertain effects on ROM. The overall certainty of evidence is low to very low. KT may be considered as an adjunct, but should not replace education-focused, exercise-based rehabilitation in RCRSP.