Date of Award

Spring 4-13-2019

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering

Department

Biology

First Advisor

Rogge, Renee

Second Advisor

Dosmar, Emily

Third Advisor

Evans, Diane

Abstract

Kinesiology tape has grown in popularity since its widespread use at the 2012 and 2016 Olympic Games. Manufacturers of these colorful tapes have advertised biomechanical benefits for athletes, including pain relief and muscle support, without much quantitative evidence to support these claims. The purpose of this research study was to evaluate the biomechanical aspects of kinesiology tape and how it affects subjects’ muscle activity. This research study evaluated the muscle activity of subjects’ low back before and after tape application during targeted, bodyweight exercises. Each subject’s muscle activity, measured through electromyography (EMG), was normalized and assessed using nonparametric statistical techniques. In addition, the placebo effect was evaluated by incorrectly applying tape on half of the research participants. In general, findings indicate no significant changes to the muscle activity of the low back due to kinesiology tape, regardless of the method of application.

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