The effect of kinesio taping and lifestyle changes on pain, body awareness and quality of life in primary dysmenorrhea

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of kinesio taping and lifestyle changes on pain, body awareness and quality of life in primary dysmenorrhea (PD). The research was carried out on 60 individuals between the age group of 18–40, who are diagnosed with PD and divided into two groups. Individuals were evaluated only in the first menstrual cycle, treatment was started in the second menstrual cycle, ending the treatment during the third menstrual cycle within a repeated manner and the evaluations were repeated. In the first group, kinesio taping was performed from the first day of the second menstruation according to the tissue examination according to the tissue examination, and the lifestyle changes (recommendations and relaxation training) were applied. The second group received only lifestyle changes (recommendations and relaxation training) since the second menstruation. The pain level of the cases was measured with "Visual Analogue Scale", while measuring the pain threshold and tolerance with "algometer"; the behaviours and attitudes during menstruation period with "Menstruation Attitude Scale (MAS)"; health-related life quality with "Short Form-36"; tight tapes with "skin-rolling technique"; and changes in the body awareness with Body Awareness Questionnaire" form. Pain intensity decreased in both groups, body awareness and quality of life increased (p<0,05). But, pain severity in the first group decreased statistically more and body awareness and quality of life increased more (p<0,05). As a result, both kinesio taping and lifestyle suggestions can be used to increase quality of life and body awareness and decrease pain in patients with PD.