Effects of Patellar Taping on Patellar Position in the Open and Closed Kinetic Chain: A Preliminary Study

Although patellar taping has been advocated in the treatment of patellofemoral pain syndrome to decrease pain, to enhance vastus medialis control, and to facilitate patellar alignment, limited radiological data exist to support the use of patellar taping. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of patellar taping on patellar position in the open and closed kinetic chains (OKC and CKC) and to quantify the effect of taping on patellar pain. Nine subjects (10 knees; 7 female, 2 males) with patellofemoral pain syndrome were x-rayed in the OKC and CKC at a 45° angle of knee flexion with and without tape applied. Subjects also completed a visual analog pain scale after performing an 8-in. step-down both pre- and posttaping. Results revealed a significant increase in lateral patellofemoral angle with patellar taping in the CKC, which indicates a more medially tilted patella. No change occurred in the patellofemoral congruence angle. Pain was reduced 45% with patellar taping during the 8-in. step-down. It was concluded that in these subjects, patellar taping decreased patellar pain and improved patellar medial tilt as defined by the lateral patellofemoral angle.