The effect of the McConnell shoulder taping technique on people with anterior shoulder pain

This study was to investigate the effect of the McConnell shoulder taping in people with anterior shoulder pain. There were two phases in this study. In phase one, the purposes were to determine the immediate effect of the taping on (1) activity of the upper and lower trapezius and the infraspinatus muscles during shoulder scaption; (2) pain level during shoulder scaption and (3) range of shoulder scaption. (ROM). In phase two, the purposes were to determine the effect of a six-week course of the taping combined with an exercise program as compared to the effect of an exercise program only on (1) ROM and (2) pain level and functional status.

In phase one, twenty-three subjects and twenty-four shoulders were accepted for the study. Surface electromyography (EMG) was used to detect muscle activity. A standard goniometer was used to determine ROM and a visual analogue scale (VAS) was used to measure pain level. The EMG data, ROM measurements and VAS pain scores were collected from each subject under the taping and no taping conditions on the same day. Results revealed no difference in EMG data between the two conditions. Results showed improved VAS pain scores and ROM with the taping condition.

In phase two, twenty-three subjects and twenty-four shoulders were accepted for the study. The Shoulder Pain And Disability Index (SPADI) was used to determine subjects' pain level and functional status. Twelve subjects in the exercise only group performed a specific exercise program for six weeks. Twelve subjects in the exercise with taping group were taped daily for the first two weeks and performed the same exercise program for six weeks. SPADI scores and ROM measurements were collected on four different days. Results revealed no difference in SPADI scores or ROM between the two groups.

Results indicated the McConnell shoulder taping technique may be beneficial for temporary pain relief and an increase in ROM when treating people with anterior shoulder pain. However, the taping technique may not add any effect to the exercise program. Therefore, it may not be cost-effective to introduce the taping technique for people with anterior shoulder pain.