Effectiveness of Kinesio Taping Combined With Neuromuscular Control Exercises on Pain and Function in Knee Osteoarthritis: A Multicenter Assessor‐Blinded Randomized Controlled Trial Protocol

Vollständiger Abstract

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ABSTRACT Background and Aims Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a leading cause of functional impairment and decreased quality of life. Exercise is the recommended approach; however, adjunct interventions such as kinesio taping (KT) have gained attention for potential to reduce pain, improve proprioception, and enhance functional performance. Despite its growing clinical use, research on the effectiveness of combining KT with neuromuscular control exercises (NCE) in KOA remains limited. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the effectiveness of KT combined with NCE in reducing pain and improving functional outcomes in KOA. Methods This randomized controlled trial is recruiting 80 participants with KOA. Participants are randomly allocated (1:1) to either an experimental group receiving KT combined with NCE or a control group receiving sham KT with NCE. Both groups are undergoing supervised intervention sessions three times per week for 8 weeks. Primary outcomes include pain intensity (Visual Analog Scale, VAS), pressure pain threshold (PPT—digital pressure algometer), and functional status (Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index, WOMAC). Secondary outcomes include lower limb muscle strength (modified sphygmomanometer), knee range of motion (goniometer), and functional mobility (Timed Up and Go test, TUG). Outcomes are planned to be assessed at baseline, post‐intervention (8 weeks), and follow‐up (6 months). Repeated‐measures ANOVA will assess group, time, and group × time interaction effects, with between‐group differences and 95% CIs reported according to the intention‐to‐treat principle. Results The trial is expected to generate evidence on whether adding KT to NCE yields greater improvements in pain modulation, physical function, and mobility in KOA. Conclusions This study will address a crucial evidence gap in multimodal, non‐pharmacological rehabilitation for KOA. Findings could support evidence‐based clinical decisions and provide a cost‐effective addition to exercise therapy, especially in resource‐limited settings like Bangladesh. Results might also guide future multicenter trials and standardized rehabilitation protocols for KOA. Trial Registration CTRI/2025/08/093317 [Registered on: 20/08/2025]; trial registered prospectively.