Affiliations: [a] Department of Physical Therapy, Inje University Pusan Paik Hospital, Inje University, Gimhae, Republic of Korea | [b] Department of Physical Therapy, College of Biomedical Science and Engineering, Inje University, Gimhae, Republic of Korea | [c] Department of Physical Therapy, The Graduate School, Inje University, Gimhae, Republic of Korea
Correspondence:
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Corresponding author: Won-gyu Yoo, PhD., Department of Physical Therapy, College of Biomedical Science and Engineering, Inje University 607 Obang-dong, Gimhae, Gyeongsangnam-do, 621-749, Republic of Korea. Tel.: +82 55 320 3994; Fax: +82 55 329 1678; E-mail: won7y@inje.ac.kr
Abstract: Objective:This report describes the application of scapular elevation taping (SET) using kinesio tape to elevate the scapula and treat upper trapezius (UT) muscle tenderness in a patient with scapular depression syndrome. Methods:The patient was a 22-year-old man who had scapular depression and severe tenderness of the right UT. We performed SET for 2 months, 4 days a week, for an average of 9 h each day, to provide scapular elevation. Results:At the last assessment, the right superior angle of the scapula and the lateral border of the acromion were slightly elevated compared with the spinous process of the second thoracic vertebra. A chest X-ray showed that the right coracoid process was higher compared to the initial level and that the level of the first ribs was similar on both sides. The pressure-pain threshold in the UT increased from 1 to 8 kg and the tenderness at 3 kg, assessed on a numeric rating scale, decreased from 6 to 0. No tenderness occurred when carrying a bag with the right hand or slinging a bag over the right shoulder. Conclusion:Continuous application of SET may be used as a supplementary method for scapular elevation and reduction in patients with UT tenderness.
