This randomized controlled study aimed to compare the short-term effects of three different kinesio taping techniques on plantar fascia elasticity, dynamic balance, and ankle joint position sense in healthy young adults. A total of 120 participants aged 18-25 years were randomly assigned to facilitation kinesio taping, ankle stabilization taping, or sham taping groups. Plantar fascia mechanical properties were assessed using MyotonPRO, dynamic balance was evaluated with the modified Star Excursion Balance Test (mSEBT), and joint position sense was measured using the active angle reproduction method. Outcomes were assessed at baseline, 24 hours, and 48 hours after tape application.
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years – 25 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* Healthy young adults aged 18-25 years
* No history of lower extremity injury affecting ankle function
* Full, pain-free ankle range of motion in all directions
Exclusion Criteria:
* History of ankle dislocation or fracture within the previous year
* Previous foot or ankle surgery
* Pain during ankle movements
* Open wounds or skin allergy preventing kinesio taping application
* Psychiatric disorders or cognitive impairment affecting participation
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1This trial tested Kinesio taping on healthy young adults rather than people with foot pain or plantar fasciitis — does that mean the findings might not apply to my specific situation, and would taping even be appropriate for me?
2The study measured things like plantar fascia stiffness and relaxation time using a device called the MyotonPRO — can you explain what those measurements actually mean for how my foot functions day-to-day, and whether changes in those numbers would translate to real benefits for me?
3Since this trial is already completed, are the results published or available, and do they show any meaningful difference between the different Kinesio taping techniques that might influence how you'd recommend taping for my care?
4Kinesio taping is a non-invasive technique, but are there any risks or downsides — like skin irritation or a false sense of stability — that I should be aware of before considering it as part of my treatment?
5Given that this study was done on healthy participants rather than people with a condition like mine, would you recommend I try a more standard or evidence-based treatment first before exploring taping techniques like the ones studied here?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
What they're measuring
1
Change in plantar fascia frequency measured by MyotonPRO
Timeframe: Baseline, 24 hours after intervention, and 48 hours after intervention
2
Change in plantar fascia stiffness measured by MyotonPRO
Timeframe: Baseline, 24 hours after intervention, and 48 hours after intervention
3
Change in plantar fascia decrement measured by MyotonPRO
Timeframe: Baseline, 24 hours after intervention, and 48 hours after intervention
4
Change in plantar fascia relaxation time measured by MyotonPRO
Timeframe: Baseline, 24 hours after intervention, and 48 hours after intervention
5
Change in plantar fascia creep measured by MyotonPRO
Timeframe: Baseline, 24 hours after intervention, and 48 hours after intervention