Document Type : Original Article
Authors
Abstract
Background: Scapular position has a critical role in exposure of humeral head to the acromion. Any change in scapular positioning may lead to shoulder dysfunctions such as shoulder impingement syndrome and instabilities. Imbalances in muscles surrounding scapula may deviate scapula from natural position. Among these muscles, lower trapezius is more prone to weakness. Taping of this muscle may facilitate it through stimulating proprioceptive receptors. The aim of this study was to verify the effect of lower trapezius taping on scapular positioning measured by virtue of kibler index.
Methods: Thirty healthy men (15 non-athletes and 15 overhead athletes) participated in this study. The angle made by medial border of the scapula and spine measured before and after lower trapezius taping in three different positions: zero degree (arms beside the body), 45 ° (hands on the iliac crest) and 90 ° (hands to cross).
Results: There was a significant difference between kibler index and between scapular rotation angle in different degrees of shoulder abduction in two groups (p<0.01). There was no significant difference between scapular rotation angle and between kibler index in any degrees of shoulder abduction before and after taping in two groups (p>0.05). There was a significant difference between kibler index and scapular rotation before and after taping in athletes (p>0.05) but not in non-athletes (p<0.05).
Conclusion: There is a significant decrease in kibler index after taping in athletes. Scapular rotation angle increased significantly in this group. Taping has no effect in scapular static position in either group.
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