Postural control following fatigue induction

This study aimed to determine the effects of Kinesio® taping (KT) on dynamic postural control following fatigue induction. It is hypothesized that the application of KT limits the effects of fatigue on dynamic postural control. This study used a randomized controlled trial recruited 32 male recreational athletes, randomized to one of the two groups (Group A: KT and fatigue and Group B: KT and no fatigue). Fatigue was induced using the adapted Functional Agility Short Term Fatigue Protocol (FAST-FP). The rectus femoris of quadriceps, biceps femoris of the hamstring and medial gastrocnemius of the dominant leg were taped. The dynamic postural control was assessed pre and post fatigue. A significant interaction was observed between the group and time for the anterior-posterior position (p=0.03, ηp2=0.21) while non-significant interaction was observed in the lateral symmetry (p=0.84, ηp2=0.001). A significant main effect of time was observed for anterior-posterior position (p>0.05, ηp2=0.15) while non-significant for the lateral symmetry (p=0.65, ηp2=0.007). For the main effect of the two groups was not significant for the anterior-posterior position (p=0.42, ηp2=0.02) and lateral symmetry (p=0.73, ηp2=0.004). In conclusion, the diminishing effect of fatigue on the anterior-posterior position was observed. Moreover, KT application does not limit the effects of fatigue on the dynamic postural control.