The effect of kinesio taping on reactive balance, flexibility, and fear in athletes with chronic ankle sprain

The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of kinesiology taping (KT) on flexibility, fear, and reactive balance performance in athletes with chronic ankle sprain, to contribute to rehabilitation programs after ankle injuries and provide a different perspective to injury prevention programs. Twenty-four male football players with a mean age of 16.08 ± 1.08 years and a body mass index (BMI) of 22.10 ± 2.22 kg/m² participated in the study. Twelve athletes with a history of ankle sprain formed the study group (SG), while 12 athletes without a history of sprain constituted the control group (CG). In the SG, KT was applied to the injured ankle, while in the CG, placebo KT was applied to the dominant extremity. Flexibility was assessed using the closed kinetic dorsiflexion angle and open kinetic dorsiflexion angle. Fear was evaluated using the Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia, and reactive balance performance was assessed using the Reactive Balance Test (RBT). All assessments were conducted twice, before and after the application. When pre- and post-application values were compared, significant differences were found in the accuracy percentages of the reactive balance measurements in both groups (p<0,05). However, no significant differences were observed in the other parameters (p>0,05). This study suggests that KT may be considered a complementary method that supports proprioceptive feedback, particularly in improving accuracy percentage in the RBT, which is used to evaluate balance performance in athletes. Considering the improvements observed in accuracy percentage, KT may enhance reactive motor responses and be incorporated into physiotherapy practices aimed at preventing sportsrelated injuries. Keywords: Kinesio Taping; Motor Control; Proprioception; Reactive Balance