Effects of Different Tensions of Kinesio Taping on Lumbar Skin Temperature: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Objective: The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of Kinesio Tape (KT) applied at different tension levels on local skin temperature using thermographic analysis and to reveal the potential role of band tension on circulatory response. Materials and Methods: This randomized controlled study included 36 healthy subjects. Participants were randomly divided into three groups (20%, 40%, 60%) based on KT tension levels. KT was applied to the lumbar region using the specified tension, while the opposite side served as a control with 0% tension. Local skin temperature was measured at baseline, 15 and 45-min after application, and again at 24 hours. All measurements were performed in the lumbar region using an infrared camera under constant environmental conditions and at a fixed distance. Statistical analyses were performed using Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn-Bonferroni tests, with significance set at p0.05). Despite a trend toward significance at the 45-min mark in the 60% tension group (p=0.051), no statistically significant changes were observed. Conclusion: KT applications at different tensions did not induce a significant thermographic response in lumbar skin temperature in healthy adults. This is probably a consequence of the optimal functioning of the nervous system and circulation. It’s plausible that different results may be observed when KT is applied to other body regions or clinical populations.