Initial Effects of Elbow Taping on Pain-Free Grip Strength and Pressure Pain Threshold

STUDY DESIGN: Single-blind, placebo control, randomized, crossover, experimental study with repeated measures. OBJECTIVE: To determine the initial effects of a taping technique on grip strength and pain in individuals with lateral epicondylalgia. BACKGROUND: Taping techniques are advocated for chronic musculoskeletal conditions such as lateral epicondylalgia, a prevalent disorder with significant impact on the individual and community. Little evidence exists supporting the effects of taping techniques on musculoskeletal pain. METHODS AND MEASURES: Sixteen participants (mean age +/- SD, 45.8 +/- 10.2 years) with chronic lateral epicondylalgia (mean duration +/- SD, 13.1 +/- 9.9 months) participated in a placebo control study of an elbow taping technique. Outcome measures were pain-free grip strength and pressure pain threshold taken before, immediately after, and 30 minutes after application of tape. RESULTS: The taping technique significantly improved pain-free grip strength by 24% from baseline (P = .028). The treatment effect was greater than that for placebo and control conditions. Changes in pressure pain threshold (19%), although positive, were not statistically significant. CONCLUSION: This preliminary study demonstrated an initial ameliorative effect of a taping technique for lateral epicondylalgia and suggests that it should be considered as an adjunct in the management of this condition.