Comparison of different physiotherapy methods in terms of pain, functionality and quality of life in patients with subacromial impingement syndrome; a randomized controlled trial

Aim: The purpose of this study was to compare the effectiveness of two conservative treatment methods—Kinesio Taping (KT) and Spinal Manipulative Therapy (SMT)—in individuals diagnosed with Subacromial Impingement Syndrome (SIS), and to determine whether there is a significant difference between these treatments in terms of pain, functionality, and quality of life. Materials and Methods: This randomized controlled trial was conducted with 66 patients aged between 20 and 65 who had been diagnosed with SIS. Participants were randomly assigned into three groups of 22 using block randomization. The first group received scapulothoracic mobilization and exercise; the second group received KT in addition to the same protocol; and the third group received SMT alongside the same treatment. Pain was assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Range of Motion (ROM) was measured with a universal goniometer, functionality was evaluated using the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI) and the Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (Q-DASH), and quality of life was assessed with the Short Form-12 (SF-12). All assessments were performed at baseline, post-treatment, and at the 6-week follow-up. Results: All three groups showed statistically significant improvements in pain, functionality, and quality of life both immediately after treatment and at the 6-week follow-up (p<0.05). A 33.2% reduction in VAS scores was observed in the KT group, while a 41.5% reduction was found in the SMT group (p<0.01). SPADI scores decreased by 45% in the SMT group, 38% in the KT group, and 24% in the control group. Regarding quality of life, the SMT group achieved significantly higher improvement scores in both the physical and mental components of the SF-12 (p<0.05). Inter-group comparisons revealed that the SMT group was particularly more effective in reducing pain and improving ROM (F=5.97; p=0.004). Conclusion: Both KT and SMT enhanced treatment efficacy when added to scapulothoracic mobilization and exercise in SIS management. The findings suggest that KT is beneficial for short-term pain relief and ROM improvement, while SMT contributes to more lasting functional gains and long-term pain control. Therefore, it is recommended that treatment plans be personalized based on the individual characteristics of the patient Keywords: Tape therapy; Manipulation; Mobilization; Subakromial impingement syndrome