MODERN APPROACHES TO THE USE OF KINESIOTAPING IN PHYSICAL THERAPY OF PATIENTS WITH KNEE JOINT INJURIES

Abstract

Introduction. The knee joint is one of the most vulnerable anatomical structures of the musculoskeletal system, and its injuries — especially ruptures of the anterior and posterior cruciate ligaments, medial collateral ligament — lead to a significant decrease in working capacity and long-term loss of physical activity. Traditional rehabilitation programs include therapeutic physical education, massage, physiotherapy, but in recent years there has been a growing interest in kinesiotherapy methods as an additional means of optimizing recovery processes.

The aim of the study – to analyze current data on the effectiveness of kinesiotherapy in patients with knee ligament injuries and to determine the prospects for this method.

The main part. A search and analysis of scientific literature was conducted on the use of kinesiotherapy in physical therapy both in general and specifically in patients with knee ligament injuries. A review of the literature was conducted to summarize current data on the effectiveness of kinesiotherapy, determine its role in the rehabilitation program and outline the prospects for further research. The search was conducted in international electronic databases: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, as well as in domestic scientific journals and conference proceedings. The article reviews the results of clinical studies, systematic reviews and meta-analyses that have studied the role of kinesiology taping in the treatment of knee injuries. The generalized data show that the use of tapes reduces the intensity of pain, reduces post-traumatic or postoperative edema, and also restores the range of motion. Some studies confirm the improvement of proprioception, stability of the knee joint and faster recovery of strength of the muscles of the posterior thigh. The psychological effect attracts special attention: the use of tapes increases the patient’s confidence in performing movements and reduces the fear of re-injury, which contributes to a more active participation in the rehabilitation process. However, the results of the studies are not entirely unambiguous. Some studies demonstrate only a short-term effect of kinesiology taping or do not reveal statistically significant differences compared to standard treatment methods. Insufficient standardization of application schemes and significant variability in methodology also complicate the formation of universal clinical recommendations.

Conclusions. Kinesio taping can be considered as an effective adjunct in complex physical therapy for knee ligament injuries. Its feasibility is most evident in the early phase of recovery, when it is necessary to quickly reduce pain and swelling, create conditions for active development of movements and support the psycho-emotional state of the patient. Further scientific research should be aimed at standardizing taping protocols, determining optimal combinations with other physical therapy methods and assessing long-term results.