Investigating the effects of kinesio taping applied on core region on core endurance and balance in squat activity

The aim of this study was to compare the effects of kinesio taping (KT) applied to the core area on core endurance and balance in athletes and sedentary individuals. Licensed football players (n=16) and sedentary healthy individuals (n=16) were included in the study. Balance assessments were recorded with the Tekscan MatScan™ Pressure Mat System. Postural sways were recorded first in the static stance and then during the squat test repeated with different weights (0-3-5 kg). "Lateral Bridge Test, Sorenson Test and Trunk Flexor Endurance Test" were applied for core endurance assessment. After the initial evaluations were completed, kinesio taping was performed on the core muscles of the participants (M. Rectus abdominis, M. Obliquus externus abdominis, M. Obliquus internus abdominis and M. Erector spinae). All evaluations were repeated 45 minutes after kinesio taping. In statistical analysis, "T-test in Independent Groups" was used for comparisons between groups, and "T test in Dependent Groups" was used for comparisons within groups. According to the findings of the study, a significant difference was found between the two groups in core endurance values before KT (p˂0.05), and this difference continued after KT (p˂0.05). It created a significant change in KT core endurance values only in sedentary individuals (p˂0.05). There was no significant difference between the two groups in the postural sway values during the static posture and squat test (0-3-5 kg) before KT (p˃0.05). There was a significant difference between the two groups in the postural sway values during the squat test performed with weightless (0 kg) and 3 kg after KT (p˂0.05). It caused a significant increase (p˂0.05) in athletes and a significant decrease (p˂0.05) in sedentary athletes in terms of postural sway values during the KT squat test. According to the results of the study, it was seen that KT applied to the core region can affect core endurance and balance. KT has different effects on athletes and sedentary people. KT to be built in the core area in athletes can improve performance.