Document Type : Original Articles
Authors
1 Research Committee, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
2 Department of Physiotherapy, School of Rehabilitation Sciences, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
3 Orthopedic & Rehabilitation Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
4 Department of occupational medicine, Facualty of Medicine, Hormozgan University of Physiotherapy, Bandar Abbas, Iran
Abstract
Background: Chronic non-specific low back pain (NS-LBP) is a common musculoskeletal condition affecting athletes. While core muscle strengthening is effective, the diaphragm's role in spinal stability is often overlooked. Kinesio taping may enhance muscle function, but its effectiveness when combined with diaphragm strengthening exercises remains unexplored in female athletes with NS-LBP.This study aims to investigate the effects of adding Kinesio taping to diaphragm strengthening exercises on pain, function, core muscle endurance, agility, and balance in female athletes with chronic NS-LBP.
Methods: This single-blind randomized controlled trial will recruit 32 female recreational athletes (aged 30-50 years) with chronic NS-LBP. Participants will be randomly allocated to two groups: diaphragmatic exercises with Kinesio taping (experimental group) or diaphragmatic exercises alone (control group). The intervention will last 4 weeks. Outcome measures will include pain (Numerical Rating Scale), function (Oswestry Disability Index and Athlete Disability Index), core muscle endurance (Prone Bridge Test, Side Bridge Test, Unilateral Hip Bridge Endurance test, Feet Elevated Side Support test), balance (Single Leg Stance test, Y Balance Test), and agility (Illinois Agility Test). Assessments will be conducted at baseline, post-intervention, and 2-week follow-up.
Results: This study will provide evidence regarding the efficacy of combining Kinesio taping with diaphragm strengthening exercises in female athletes with NS-LBP.
Conclusion: Findings may inform clinical practice by establishing whether this combined approach offers superior outcomes compared to exercise alone.
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